Species profile
Blue Gularis Killifish
Fundulopanchax sjoestedti
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
120 L minimum aquarium
10–14 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 2
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
One of the largest commonly kept killifish. Powerful, predatory and more quarrelsome than small Aphyosemion-type species.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–25 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
5–20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 2
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
1.4
Keep as a compatible pair/trio or carefully managed group. Males can be very quarrelsome, so provide substantial cover and separation options.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
120 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Fundulopanchax sjoestedti
Alternative names
Blue Gularis, Blue Gularis Killifish, Fundulopanchax sjostedti
Native range
Coastal Nigeria and Cameroon, including the Niger Delta region.
Natural habitat
Temporary and raphia swamps and slow-flowing brooks in coastal rainforest. Use subdued light, plant/wood cover, gentle flow and a tightly covered tank.
Diet & feeding
Predatory insectivore taking substantial live/frozen invertebrate foods; large adults may eat small fish. Use varied meaty foods rather than feeders.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are larger and intensely blue/green/red with extended fins; females are smaller and comparatively plain brown.
Breeding
Non-seasonal bottom/substrate spawner. FishBase reports an egg incubation period around two months; peat or suitable spawning substrate is commonly used.