Is Aphyosemion striatum suitable for beginners?

Yes, it's generally considered beginner-friendly. That said, because it's a shy fish, a calm environment and gentle tankmates will help it settle in well.

What size tank do I need?

Since adults reach only about 5 to 6 cm, a tank starting from 45 cm is sufficient. Keeping a small group lets them display more natural behavior.

Can it be kept with other fish?

Yes, its peaceful temperament allows for community tanks, but because it's shy, choose calm, slow-moving tankmates and avoid boisterous or aggressive species.

Can it jump out of the tank?

Like other killifish, it has strong jumping ability and can escape through gaps at the water's surface, so a secure, well-fitting lid is recommended.

Is this species subject to CITES?

No, Aphyosemion striatum is not subject to CITES.

Red-striped Killifish

Aphyosemion striatum is a small, strikingly colored egg-laying killifish with a blue-green body marked by bright red stripes. Males take it a step further, with red edging along their dorsal and tail fins, and a small group swimming together brings real color to an aquascape. They're generally peaceful but can be shy and easily startled, so they do best alongside calm, slow-moving tankmates rather than boisterous species. At just 5 to 6 cm fully grown, they're compact enough for tanks starting from 45 cm. Considered beginner-friendly among killifish, Aphyosemion striatum rewards a quiet, well-planted setup with the chance to appreciate its delicate coloring up close.

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About Red-striped Killifish

Aphyosemion striatum is a small killifish with striking red stripes on a blue-green body. Peaceful but shy, it suits calm tankmates and can be kept in tanks from 45 cm, making it a beginner-friendly choice.

7 things to know before welcoming a Red-striped Killifish

1Choose calm, gentle tankmates
Aphyosemion striatum is peaceful but shy, and can become stressed when housed with fast-moving or boisterous fish. Pair it with equally calm, slow-moving species, or consider keeping it alone or in a small group.
2Suitable from a 45 cm tank
Fully grown, this killifish reaches just 5 to 6 cm, so a tank starting from 45 cm is enough to house them. Keeping a small group together brings out the beauty of their red stripes.
3Provide plenty of cover
Being shy by nature, they settle in best with plants and driftwood that break up sightlines and offer places to retreat. A layout with plenty of cover also tends to bring out their natural coloring.
4Watch for jumping
Like many killifish, Aphyosemion striatum is a capable jumper and can escape through small gaps at the water's surface. Make sure your tank has a secure, well-fitting lid.
5Males show red-edged fins
In addition to the red stripes along their sides, males develop red edging on their dorsal and tail fins. Keeping a few together lets you compare and enjoy their individual coloring.
6Sensitive to sudden water changes
Their shy, delicate nature means abrupt shifts in water quality or temperature can cause stress. Smaller, more frequent water changes are gentler than large, infrequent ones.
7An accessible choice for beginners
Considered beginner-friendly, this species is one of the more approachable killifish to keep. With basic water quality care and a calm setup, it's easy to enjoy observing over time.

Frequently asked questions about Red-striped Killifish

Q.Is Aphyosemion striatum suitable for beginners?: A.Yes, it's generally considered beginner-friendly. That said, because it's a shy fish, a calm environment and gentle tankmates will help it settle in well.
Q.What size tank do I need?: A.Since adults reach only about 5 to 6 cm, a tank starting from 45 cm is sufficient. Keeping a small group lets them display more natural behavior.
Q.Can it be kept with other fish?: A.Yes, its peaceful temperament allows for community tanks, but because it's shy, choose calm, slow-moving tankmates and avoid boisterous or aggressive species.
Q.Can it jump out of the tank?: A.Like other killifish, it has strong jumping ability and can escape through gaps at the water's surface, so a secure, well-fitting lid is recommended.
Q.Is this species subject to CITES?: A.No, Aphyosemion striatum is not subject to CITES.