Blue eyes luminatus

Introduction: Welcome to the fascinating world of the Blue Eyes Luminatus, a strikingly beautiful and peaceful fish known for its vivid blue eyes and shimmering body. Scientifically known as Pseudomugil luminatus, this species is native to the lowland rivers and swamps of Papua New Guinea. The Blue Eyes Luminatus is a perfect addition to any well-maintained freshwater aquarium, especially for those looking to add a touch of elegance and color to their aquatic collection.

Scientific Name: The Blue Eyes Luminatus is scientifically known as Pseudomugil luminatus.

Water Quality and Temperature: To provide the best care for your Blue Eyes Luminatus, it is important to replicate its natural environment by maintaining the following water parameters:

• Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 72°F and 82°F (22°C to 28°C) for optimal health.
• pH Level: Maintain a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5, mimicking the slightly acidic to neutral waters of its natural habitat.
• GH Level: Aim for a general hardness (GH) level between 5 to 15 dGH for a stable environment.
• KH Level: Keep the carbonate hardness (KH) within the range of 2 to 10 dKH to ensure water stability.

Feeding: The Blue Eyes Luminatus is an omnivorous species with a preference for small, protein-rich foods. To keep them healthy and vibrant, provide a varied diet that includes:

• Flake Foods: High-quality, finely crushed flake foods formulated for small tropical fish.
• Pellets: Micro pellets that sink slowly, designed for small fish species.
• Live or Frozen Foods: Offer live or frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms to provide essential protein and stimulate natural hunting behaviors.
• Vegetable Matter: Occasionally include finely chopped vegetables like spinach or spirulina-based flakes to ensure a balanced diet.

Tank Mates: The Blue Eyes Luminatus is a peaceful and social species that thrives in a community setting. Suitable tank mates include other small, non-aggressive fish such as tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras catfish. They also do well with other Pseudomugil species. It’s best to keep them in groups of at least six to eight individuals, as they are schooling fish that feel more secure and display better coloration when in a group.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: The ideal substrate for a Blue Eyes Luminatus tank is soft, fine sand or smooth gravel. Decorate the tank with plenty of plants, driftwood, and rocks to provide hiding spots and create a natural, stimulating environment. These fish appreciate a densely planted tank with open swimming spaces and some shaded areas created by floating plants.

Suitable Plants: The Blue Eyes Luminatus thrives in a well-planted aquarium. Consider using plants like Java Moss, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, and Vallisneria to provide cover and enhance the natural look of the tank. Floating plants such as Duckweed or Water Sprite can be added to diffuse light and create shaded areas, which these fish enjoy.

Sexing: Sexing Blue Eyes Luminatus is relatively straightforward. Males are more colorful, displaying vibrant orange or red fins with blue highlights, especially during courtship. Females are generally less colorful, with more subdued tones and slightly smaller fins. Males also tend to have a more elongated and streamlined body shape compared to the rounder females.

Breeding: Breeding Blue Eyes Luminatus in captivity is relatively easy with the right conditions. To encourage breeding, set up a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops where the female can deposit her eggs. The eggs will typically hatch within 7 to 10 days, depending on the water temperature. The fry can be fed on infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp until they are large enough to eat finely crushed flake food.

Maximum Size and Longevity: The Blue Eyes Luminatus typically grows to about 1.5 inches (4 cm) in length. With proper care, they can live up to 2 to 3 years, providing a short but vibrant addition to your aquarium.

General Information: The Blue Eyes Luminatus is a captivating species that adds a splash of color and elegance to any aquarium. Its peaceful nature and striking appearance make it a favorite among aquarists who enjoy maintaining a community tank. This species is also known for its active swimming and social behavior, making it a joy to watch as they interact with their tank mates.

A Fun Fact: The Blue Eyes Luminatus is named for its luminescent blue eyes, which are particularly striking in low light. This unique feature, combined with their shimmering body colors, makes them a standout fish in any aquarium setting.