Aphyosemion

    There are many species of killifish from the Aphyosemion genus that are readily available through the members of killifish associations and our affiliate breeders.  There are 3 primary Aphyosemion groups: the fish in the general Aphyosemion group, eight (8) species in the subgenus Chromaphyosemion and five (5) species in the subgenus Aphyosemion (Diapteron).  Aphyosemion species fish are plant spawning killifish, found in the equatorial areas of Africa, coming from small streams, ponds, and drainage areas with usually regular water supplies and plenty of aquatic vegetation and decomposing leaves.

    One of the most commonly seen and a suitable beginner's fish, is Aphyosemion australe, one the few killifish that has a common name, the Lyretail and were previously grouped together years ago as "Panchax". Like most of the killfish in the Aphyosemion genus, except for a few species, Aph. Australe are easily and readily spawned in floating plants and mops. It is available in three color varieties. The chocolate is the natural form, while the Orange and the Gold strains are the products of selective breeding in aquariums.  Other species in the Aphyosemion genus that are relatively easy for beginners are A. calliurum, A. ahli, A. (Chroma) Bitaeniatum,  A. (Chroma) bivittatum, A. congicum, A. guignardi, A. (Chroma) Splendopleure, A. sheeli, and A. striatum.  

    Closely related Aphyosemion species with the same species name are also often identified as coming from specific populations or locations. Different populations and locals have slightly different genetics, although the fish still belongs to the same species.  Good examples of this are A Cognatum and A. Striatum.  Other killifish species where there are different populations/locations with a wide range of variations between them are found in the Chrormaphyosemion group and the eight (8) species in this sub genus. Three of the species seen in the aquarium hobby includes bitaeniatum, bivittatum, & splendopleure species, and the various locals and populations within these species.  A review of the species on the Chrompaphyosemion Table, or the individual pages for each of these 3 referenced Chroma species, clearly demonstrates the color and fin variations between them. 

    Chromaphyosemion have been often referred to as the A. bivittatum-group or bivittatum-like fish, because the similar body shape and impressive long and flowing fins, clearly indicate common ancestor. However, by comparing some of the various species/populations in the Chroma sub-genus, it is easy to see there are distinctions between each of the eight species, and the variations between the population/location within each species.  The Chromaphyosemions are found in the wild in the coastal regions of Central-West Africa (Nigeria area) and can be found in the mountain streams (A. loennbergi; A. lugens; A. poliaki; A. riggenbachi, A. volcanum;) and throughout the coastal low lands (A. bitaeniatum; A. bivittatum; A. splendopleure), which are the three Chroma species usually the easiest for moderately experienced aquarium hobbyists to start as the first Chroma species they keep and breed.

    Most Aphyosemion species are noted by the red spots/spangles on the body.  However, in addition to the Chroma sub-genus, there is one other sub genus group of Aphyosemions known as "Diapterons", which have blue spangles instead.  There are five (5) known species of Diapterons.

    For more information about Aphyosemion species, click on the fish below.

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