Ceylon killifish (Aplocheilus dayi)

Scientific name: Aplocheilus dayi Steindachner, 1892

The Ceylon killifish (Aplocheilus dayi) is a freshwater fish of the family Aplocheilidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 20–25°C (68–77°F). Native range: Asia, endemic to Sri Lanka. Reported from India and Malay Peninsula.

Ceylon killifish care at a glance

Temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F)

Biology

Usually inhabits shallow, heavily shaded forest streams with a silt substrate. Also occurs in brackish mangrove swamps, often together with Aplocheilus parvus. Feeds on small insects, insect larvae and fish fry. Cultivated as a larvicidal fish. 10 cm max TL.Not a seasonal killifish. Is easy to maintain in the aquarium.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Aplocheilus dayi
Family: Aplocheilidae (Killifishes)
Order: Cyprinodontiformes (Live bearers, Killifishes and Rivulines)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 9.0
Common length: 7.0
Environment: Freshwater; brackish; benthopelagic; non-migratory
Climate: Tropical
Distribution: Asia: endemic to Sri Lanka. Reported from India and Malay Peninsula.
Conservation status (IUCN): Not Evaluated
Threat to humans: Harmless
Uses: Fisheries: of no interest; aquarium: commercial