Aphyosemion bitteri
Aphyosemion bitteri was first described by Valdesalici and Eberl in 2016. This species belongs to the family Nothobranchiidae. The genus name Aphyosemion is derived from Greek, where “aphye” means sardine or anchovy and “semeion” means marker or signal. The species name bitteri is in honor of Friedrich Bitter, a German killifish hobbyist, for his contributions to the knowledge of African killifish.
Description
General description:
Aphyosemion bitteri is a small, slightly laterally compressed fish with a slightly convex dorsal profile. The flanks are metallic blue-green with horizontal rows of red stripes that become wider towards the rear. The fins are blue-green with red bands or dots. The maximum length of the males is about 3 centimeters.
Differences between males and females:
- Males: The males are metallic blue-green with a red horizontal dot pattern. The unpaired fins are pigmented intensely red.
- Females: The unpaired fins have a yellow and gray circular band. The edges may be edged with an iridescent blue stripe. The flanks are gray-brown with four horizontal lines of red dots.
Behavior and temperament:
Aphyosemion bitteri is a peaceful fish that lives alone or in pairs. They are not aggressive and usually swim in the upper water layers. They are not shy and show passive behavior.
Life expectancy:
There is no specific information on the life expectancy of Aphyosemion bitteri in the wild or in aquariums.
Biotope
Natural distribution:
Aphyosemion bitteri is native to Gabon, specifically the Ikoy River basin in the northern Massif du Chaillu.
Habitat:
They live in small, shallow streams without underwater vegetation. The edges of the water are often covered with trees and the bottom consists of fine substrate such as sand.
Natural enemies:
There are no specific natural enemies documented for Aphyosemion bitteri. They live in an environment with freshwater shrimp, tadpoles, and aquatic insects.
Climate:
They live in a tropical climate with slow-moving water. Temperatures range from 17°C to 24°C.
Diet
Diet in the wild:
Aphyosemion bitteri feeds primarily on ants and other insects.
Diet in the aquarium:
In the aquarium they can be fed with artemia, daphnia and other small live or frozen food animals.
The Aquarium
Aquarium size:
A minimum 20-liter aquarium is suitable for a pair of Aphyosemion bitteri. For multiple pairs, a larger aquarium is needed.
Aquarium set-up
The aquarium should be furnished with fine sand as substrate and provided with floating plants or fine-leaved plants such as Java moss . The water should be slightly acidic and have low conductivity.
Water parameters:
The ideal water parameters are a temperature between 17°C and 24°C, a pH of 6.0 to 6.5, and low conductivity.
Compatibility:
Aphyosemion bitteri can live well with other peaceful fish species such as small tetras, rasboras and other killifish.
Breeding aquarium and conditioning
Breeding:
For breeding a special breeding aquarium of 20 liters is recommended, half filled with water and provided with floating plants, Java moss or breeding mops . The water should be slightly acidic and changed regularly. The fish can be conditioned with live food such as artemia.
Conditioning:
Males and females can be kept separated temporarily and then put together for breeding. A ratio of one male to two females is ideal.
The spawn
Colors and ritual:
During spawning the colors of the fish become more intense. The eggs are laid on fine-leaved plants or floating breeding mops. Spawning usually takes place in the morning. The eggs are laid in the open and exposed and are light yellow in color.
Storing the eggs in water:
The eggs of Aphyosemion bitteri can be stored in a separate small container with a solution containing a mold inhibitor such as Acriflavine, although this is not mandatory. The eggs should be checked regularly and transferred to a fresh solution if necessary to prevent mold growth. The incubation period of the eggs is dependent on the temperature; at higher temperatures the incubation period is shorter.
Storing the eggs in moist peat
The eggs of Aphyosemion bitteri can also be stored in moist peat. This is an alternative method to storing in a solution with a mold inhibitor such as Acriflavine. Here is a detailed description of how to store the eggs in moist peat
- Collecting the eggs
It is important to collect the eggs regularly, preferably daily or every few days. This helps protect the eggs from fungus and predation by the parents. This can be done by carefully inspecting the plants or spawning mop on which the eggs have been laid and removing the eggs. - Preparing the peat:
Use peat moss or another suitable type of peat. Make sure the peat is moist, but not soaking wet. The peat should be moist enough to keep the eggs moist, but there should be no excess water. - Placing the eggs
Carefully place the collected eggs in the moist peat. Make sure the eggs are well covered with the peat, but not buried too deeply. - Storage
Place the peat with the eggs in an airtight container to prevent drying out. Store the container at a stable temperature, preferably between 20°C and 24°C. - Checking and incubation
Check the eggs regularly to see if mold is developing. If mold is observed, remove the affected eggs to prevent further spread.
The incubation period of the eggs in peat takes a little longer to several months, depending on the temperature. At higher temperatures, the incubation period can be shorter. A good indication that the eggs are almost ready to hatch is the visibility of the eyes in the egg. - Hatching the eggs
After the incubation period, the eggs will hatch. The eggs can be carefully removed from the peat and placed in a separate rearing aquarium.
Benefits of storing in moist peat
- Natural method: Mimicking natural conditions can be beneficial for egg development.
- Mold Protection: Peat has natural antimicrobial properties that can help prevent mold growth.
Disadvantages of storing in moist peat
- More difficult to monitor: It may be more difficult to regularly check the eggs for mold or other problems.
- Risk of dehydration: If the peat is not kept moist enough, the eggs can dry out and die.
Storing Aphyosemion bitteri eggs in moist peat is a viable method and can be a good alternative to using a mold inhibitor solution. It is important to keep the peat moist and check the eggs regularly to ensure successful incubation.
Raising the fry
Hatching and rearing:
The eggs hatch after about three weeks. The fry immediately begin to swim freely and can be fed with baby brine shrimp. There is no parental care and the fry should be kept separate to prevent predation by the parents.
Particularities
Special features:
Aphyosemion bitteri is a rare species known only from the type locality. They are difficult to find and collect due to the remote and difficult to access habitat.
Conclusion
Conclusion:
Aphyosemion bitteri is a beautiful and rare killifish that is suitable for experienced aquarists. They require specific water conditions and a well-equipped aquarium. Breeding this species can be challenging, but offers a unique experience for the enthusiast. The species is peaceful and can live well with other small, peaceful fish.
Author
John de Lange
Copyright images
Rudolf Pohlmann – Killifishe.info – Facebook
Bibliografie
- Valdesalici, S., & Eberl, W. (2016). Aphyosemion bitteri (Cyprinodontiformes: Nothobranchiidae), a new killifish species from the northern Massif du Chaillu, Gabon. Aqua, International Journal of Ichthyology, 22(2), 61-68.
- FishBase. (2024). Aphyosemion bitteri. Geraadpleegd op 9 september 2024, van FishBase.
- Huber, J.H., Killi-Data online (www.killi-data.org). Aphyosemion bitteri – laatste update 29-04-2016. Geraadpleegd op 9 september 2024.
