Pseudomugil furcatus is one of the most striking blue-eyes available in the hobby, the deeply forked caudal fin giving males a distinctly elegant silhouette. The body is pale silver-yellow, and the fins — particularly the dorsal, anal, and caudal — are richly patterned with vivid yellow and black markings that flash brilliantly during courtship. Despite measuring only about 5 cm at maturity, this is one of the most visually impactful nano fish in freshwater aquaristics.
Originating from the Kwagira River (also known as the Gira River) near Popondetta in Papua New Guinea, it inhabits shallow, clear, well-oxygenated streams. In the aquarium it does best in slightly alkaline, moderately hard water with good current and abundant plant cover — particularly fine-leaved stem plants and floating plants that diffuse light and provide spawning sites. Males display constantly and the activity is mesmerising.
Pseudomugil furcatus breeds readily in captivity and deposits small adhesive eggs on fine vegetation or spawning mops. The fry are very small and require infusoria or commercial fry food before graduating to baby brine shrimp. It is one of the more popular blue-eye species and is available from specialist suppliers.
