Is this species suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Lyretail Killifish has a calm temperament and is easy to keep and breed, making it a popular beginner species among killifish. Just be sure to use a secure lid, since it's a strong jumper.

How big does it grow?

It's a small tropical fish that reaches about 6 cm as an adult, so it fits comfortably in a compact tank.

Do I really need a lid?

Yes. This species is a very strong jumper and can leap out of the water and out of the tank through even small gaps, so a tight-fitting, gap-free lid is essential.

Why do the colors vary between individuals?

Wild-type fish are reddish-brown, while most fish available in the trade are the vivid orange "gold" strain. Both are the same species — the color difference simply comes from the strain.

Lyretail Killifish

The Lyretail Killifish, or Aphyosemion australe, is an egg-laying killifish known for the elegant, lyre-shaped extensions on the top and bottom of its tail fin. Wild specimens show a reddish-brown color, but most fish in the trade are the vivid orange "gold" strain. It has a calm, peaceful temperament and adapts well to small aquariums, making it a popular entry point for hobbyists curious about killifish and even breeding. One important caution: this species is a powerful jumper, so a secure lid is essential to prevent it from leaping out of the tank. With its graceful fins and manageable care needs, it's a great first killifish for beginners.

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About Lyretail Killifish

Aphyosemion australe (Lyretail Killifish) is a peaceful, easy-to-breed egg-laying killifish known for its lyre-shaped tail fin — a great beginner species, though a tight-fitting lid is a must due to its strong jumping ability.

7 things to know before welcoming a Lyretail Killifish

1A Lid Is Essential (Strong Jumper)
This species can leap straight out of the water and out of the tank, so use a tight, gap-free lid. Be especially careful of small gaps around filter tubing and cords.
2The Signature Lyre-Shaped Tail
As it matures, the top and bottom of the tail fin extend into an elegant lyre shape — its defining feature. Males in particular show striking color and finnage.
3Wild Color vs. the Gold Strain
Wild-type fish are reddish-brown, but most available in the trade are the vivid orange "gold" strain. Either color form is fine to choose based on personal preference.
4Calm and Compatible with Others
It has a peaceful temperament and generally gets along with other small, calm fish as well as its own kind. Avoid housing it with aggressive tankmates, and provide plants for cover.
5A Compact Adult Size (~6cm)
Reaching only about 6 cm as an adult, it stays small enough for a compact aquarium setup. This makes it a good fit for smaller tanks and simple layouts alike.
6Easy Care and Breeding
Both everyday care and breeding are relatively easy, which is why this species is often recommended as a first killifish. With stable tank conditions, you may have the chance to observe spawning behavior.
7Preparing the Tank Before Arrival
Set up a tank with a secure lid and add plants or moss for cover so the fish can settle in comfortably. Along with jump-proofing, make sure you can keep up with basic maintenance like regular water changes before bringing one home.

Frequently asked questions about Lyretail Killifish

Q.Is this species suitable for beginners?: A.Yes, the Lyretail Killifish has a calm temperament and is easy to keep and breed, making it a popular beginner species among killifish. Just be sure to use a secure lid, since it's a strong jumper.
Q.How big does it grow?: A.It's a small tropical fish that reaches about 6 cm as an adult, so it fits comfortably in a compact tank.
Q.Do I really need a lid?: A.Yes. This species is a very strong jumper and can leap out of the water and out of the tank through even small gaps, so a tight-fitting, gap-free lid is essential.
Q.Why do the colors vary between individuals?: A.Wild-type fish are reddish-brown, while most fish available in the trade are the vivid orange "gold" strain. Both are the same species — the color difference simply comes from the strain.
Q.Are there any legal restrictions on keeping this species?: A.It is not subject to CITES.