Gold Lyretail Aphyosemion Australe

Introduction

The Gold Lyretail Aphyosemion, also known as the Gold Lyretail Killifish, is a striking species of killifish prized for its vibrant colors and flowing tail fin. It is native to the streams and rivers of West Africa, where it can be found in slow-moving waters. Its small size and unique appearance make it a popular choice for aquariums, particularly for hobbyists who appreciate colorful, peaceful fish.

Scientific Name

Aphyosemion australe

Common Name

• Gold Lyretail Aphyosemion

• Gold Lyretail Killifish

Water Quality and Temperature

• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)

• pH: 6.5 – 7.5

• Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH

• Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a moderate flow

Feeding

• Omnivorous

• Will accept a variety of foods such as:

  • High-quality flakes and pellets

  • Live or frozen food like daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms

  • Blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini can also be offered occasionally

• Feed 2-3 times per day in small portions they can consume in 2 minutes

Tank Mates

• Peaceful community fish, such as:

  • Small tetras like Ember Tetras or Neon Tetras

  • Corydoras

  • Small rasboras

  • Livebearers (e.g., guppies or mollies)

• Avoid larger, aggressive species or fin-nippers

Substrates and Tank Decorations

• Fine gravel or sandy substrate

• Live plants provide hiding spots and add to the natural look, with plants like Java Moss, Anubias, and Hornwort being ideal

• Driftwood and rocks can create hiding places, but make sure there is still plenty of swimming space

• These fish enjoy well-planted tanks, especially if floating plants provide shade

Suitable Plants

• Java Moss

• Hornwort

• Anubias

• Java Fern

• Floating plants like Frogbit or Water Sprite

Sexing

• Males: More vibrant in color, with elongated lyre-shaped tails and fins

• Females: Smaller and more rounded, with less vibrant coloring

Breeding

• Egg layers that spawn among plants or other fine surfaces

• Separate breeding tank is ideal to prevent adult fish from eating the eggs

• Eggs typically hatch in 2-3 weeks, and fry are very small but grow quickly if provided with infusoria or specialized fry food

• These fish are seasonal spawners, so after breeding, the adults should be removed to avoid egg predation

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Size: Up to 4.5 cm (1.8 inches)

• Lifespan: 3 – 4 years with proper care

General Information

Gold Lyretail Aphyosemions are relatively hardy and easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. However, they prefer stable water conditions and are best kept in aquariums with slow-moving water. Since they are active swimmers and peaceful by nature, they thrive in well-planted community setups.

A Fun Fact

The striking “lyre-tail” shape that males develop as they mature is not only a beautiful trait but also serves a role in mating displays, where males show off their tail fins to attract females!