Aphyosemion filamentosum

Description

Filament Killifish (Aphyosemion filamentosum)

Graceful, colourful and incredibly elegant, Aphyosemion filamentosum is admired for its elongated fin filaments, shimmering blue-green body and vibrant red markings. This beautiful West African killifish is an excellent choice for experienced aquarists looking for a peaceful feature fish or rewarding breeding project.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Aphyosemion filamentosum
  • Common name: Filament Killifish
  • Adult size: Approximately 5–6 cm
  • Tank size: 30L+ recommended
  • Difficulty: 🟑 Moderate
  • Temperament: Peaceful
  • Best kept: Pairs or one male with multiple females

Is this for you?

βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

  • You enjoy rare and beautifully coloured fish.
  • You keep planted aquariums with gentle water flow.
  • You're interested in breeding non-annual killifish.
  • You appreciate peaceful, natural displays.

❌ Avoid if:

  • You keep aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
  • Your aquarium has strong water currents.
  • You don't have a tightly fitting aquarium lid.
  • You want a highly active schooling species.

Why choose Filament Killifish?

Aphyosemion filamentosum is one of the more elegant members of the Aphyosemion genus. Mature males develop stunning iridescent blue and green bodies decorated with vivid red markings, while their elongated dorsal, anal and caudal fin filaments create an impressive flowing appearance.

Native to shaded rainforest streams in West Africa, this species thrives in calm, well-planted aquariums with soft lighting and plenty of cover. Floating plants, driftwood and leaf litter help recreate their natural habitat while encouraging their best colours and natural behaviour.

Unlike annual killifish, Aphyosemion filamentosum is a non-annual species that lays adhesive eggs among fine-leaved plants and spawning mops, making it a rewarding fish for aquarists interested in breeding.

Benefits

  • Spectacular elongated fin filaments
  • Beautiful iridescent blue, green and red colouration
  • Peaceful and suitable for planted aquariums
  • Excellent species for breeding projects
  • Hardier than many specialist killifish
  • Highly sought after by killifish enthusiasts

Care made simple

  • Temperature: 21–25Β°C
  • pH: 5.8–7.2
  • Diet: Live foods, frozen foods and quality micro pellets
  • Water: Clean, soft to moderately soft water with gentle filtration
  • Setup: Heavily planted aquarium with floating plants, driftwood and subdued lighting
  • Lid: A tightly fitting lid is essential, as killifish are accomplished jumpers.
  • Perform regular partial water changes to maintain excellent water quality.

Pairs perfectly with

  • Small Corydoras
  • Otocinclus
  • Peaceful Rasboras
  • Small Tetras
  • Shrimp-safe planted aquariums
NTA Insight:
Mature males develop their longest fin filaments and most intense colours in calm aquariums with subdued lighting and a varied diet rich in frozen and live foods. Fine-leaved plants and spawning mops not only enhance the aquarium but also provide ideal egg-laying sites for breeding pairs.

FAQ

How big does Aphyosemion filamentosum grow?

Adults typically reach around 5–6 cm, with males developing longer fins and much brighter colours than females.

Is this species suitable for beginners?

It is better suited to aquarists with some experience, although it is one of the more forgiving killifish when provided with stable water conditions and peaceful surroundings.

Is Aphyosemion filamentosum an annual killifish?

No. It is a non-annual killifish, meaning its eggs develop continuously in water rather than requiring a dry incubation period.

Can Filament Killifish live in a community aquarium?

Yes. They do well with other small, peaceful fish that won't nip their flowing fins or outcompete them for food.

Will they breed in the aquarium?

Yes. They readily deposit adhesive eggs among fine-leaved plants, mosses and spawning mops. Eggs typically hatch after a few weeks when maintained in suitable conditions.

Aphyosemion filamentosum

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$80.00


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    Description

    Filament Killifish (Aphyosemion filamentosum)

    Graceful, colourful and incredibly elegant, Aphyosemion filamentosum is admired for its elongated fin filaments, shimmering blue-green body and vibrant red markings. This beautiful West African killifish is an excellent choice for experienced aquarists looking for a peaceful feature fish or rewarding breeding project.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Aphyosemion filamentosum
    • Common name: Filament Killifish
    • Adult size: Approximately 5–6 cm
    • Tank size: 30L+ recommended
    • Difficulty: 🟑 Moderate
    • Temperament: Peaceful
    • Best kept: Pairs or one male with multiple females

    Is this for you?

    βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

    • You enjoy rare and beautifully coloured fish.
    • You keep planted aquariums with gentle water flow.
    • You're interested in breeding non-annual killifish.
    • You appreciate peaceful, natural displays.

    ❌ Avoid if:

    • You keep aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
    • Your aquarium has strong water currents.
    • You don't have a tightly fitting aquarium lid.
    • You want a highly active schooling species.

    Why choose Filament Killifish?

    Aphyosemion filamentosum is one of the more elegant members of the Aphyosemion genus. Mature males develop stunning iridescent blue and green bodies decorated with vivid red markings, while their elongated dorsal, anal and caudal fin filaments create an impressive flowing appearance.

    Native to shaded rainforest streams in West Africa, this species thrives in calm, well-planted aquariums with soft lighting and plenty of cover. Floating plants, driftwood and leaf litter help recreate their natural habitat while encouraging their best colours and natural behaviour.

    Unlike annual killifish, Aphyosemion filamentosum is a non-annual species that lays adhesive eggs among fine-leaved plants and spawning mops, making it a rewarding fish for aquarists interested in breeding.

    Benefits

    • Spectacular elongated fin filaments
    • Beautiful iridescent blue, green and red colouration
    • Peaceful and suitable for planted aquariums
    • Excellent species for breeding projects
    • Hardier than many specialist killifish
    • Highly sought after by killifish enthusiasts

    Care made simple

    • Temperature: 21–25Β°C
    • pH: 5.8–7.2
    • Diet: Live foods, frozen foods and quality micro pellets
    • Water: Clean, soft to moderately soft water with gentle filtration
    • Setup: Heavily planted aquarium with floating plants, driftwood and subdued lighting
    • Lid: A tightly fitting lid is essential, as killifish are accomplished jumpers.
    • Perform regular partial water changes to maintain excellent water quality.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Small Corydoras
    • Otocinclus
    • Peaceful Rasboras
    • Small Tetras
    • Shrimp-safe planted aquariums
    NTA Insight:
    Mature males develop their longest fin filaments and most intense colours in calm aquariums with subdued lighting and a varied diet rich in frozen and live foods. Fine-leaved plants and spawning mops not only enhance the aquarium but also provide ideal egg-laying sites for breeding pairs.

    FAQ

    How big does Aphyosemion filamentosum grow?

    Adults typically reach around 5–6 cm, with males developing longer fins and much brighter colours than females.

    Is this species suitable for beginners?

    It is better suited to aquarists with some experience, although it is one of the more forgiving killifish when provided with stable water conditions and peaceful surroundings.

    Is Aphyosemion filamentosum an annual killifish?

    No. It is a non-annual killifish, meaning its eggs develop continuously in water rather than requiring a dry incubation period.

    Can Filament Killifish live in a community aquarium?

    Yes. They do well with other small, peaceful fish that won't nip their flowing fins or outcompete them for food.

    Will they breed in the aquarium?

    Yes. They readily deposit adhesive eggs among fine-leaved plants, mosses and spawning mops. Eggs typically hatch after a few weeks when maintained in suitable conditions.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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