Our Guide To Keeping Tanganyika Killifish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Lamprichthys tanganicanus
- Common name: Tanganyika Killifish
- Family: Poeciliidae
- Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
- Adult length: 10 cm
- Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
- Diet: Omnivore
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
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Tank Setup:
- Tanganyika Killifish prefer a spacious tank with open swimming areas and some rocky or sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat.
- Provide hiding spots using rocks and caves, as well as some aquatic plants like Vallisneria or Anubias.
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Water Parameters:
- They thrive in hard, alkaline water with a pH range of 7.8 to 9.0.
- Keep the water temperature between 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A gentle to moderate water flow is recommended, as they prefer stable water conditions.
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Diet:
- Tanganyika Killifish are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods. Provide high-quality flake or pellet food as their staple diet.
- Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and mosquito larvae for optimal health.
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Tank mates:
- These fish are peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive species native to Lake Tanganyika, such as shell-dwelling cichlids or smaller fish with similar water parameter needs.
- Avoid aggressive or highly territorial species.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Tanganyika Killifish are active and enjoy swimming in the upper levels of the tank. They should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals to promote their schooling behavior.
- They are best suited to a species-specific tank or a community setup with fish of similar temperament and water parameter requirements.