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Aplocheilus lineatus, commonly known as the Striped Panchax or Golden Wonder Killifish, is a species of killifish belonging to the family Aplocheilidae. It is a popular aquarium fish due to its vibrant coloration and relatively easy care. This species is characterized by its elongated, somewhat flattened body, superior mouth, and distinctive lateral stripes. It is an active surface-dwelling predator, primarily feeding on insects and small invertebrates.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- Males are typically more brightly colored, exhibiting a golden-yellow to olive-green body with several iridescent blue-green horizontal stripes or rows of spots along the flanks. The fins are often edged with red or orange. Females are generally duller, with a more subdued olive-brown body and less prominent striping. A distinct black spot is often present on the dorsal fin.
- Scale type
- cycloid
- Mouth position
- superior
- Distinctive features
- Elongated, somewhat flattened body, Superior mouth adapted for surface feeding, Prominent horizontal stripes or rows of spots along the flanks (more pronounced in males), Black ocellus (eye-spot) on the dorsal fin, especially in females and juveniles
- Dorsal fin
- Small, set far back on the body, originating posterior to the anal fin origin.
- Tail fin
- Rounded to truncate, often with a reddish or orange margin.
- Pectoral fin
- Fan-shaped, transparent to yellowish.
- Distinctive fins
- The dorsal and anal fins are positioned posteriorly, giving the fish a streamlined appearance. The caudal fin is often adorned with a colorful margin.
Identification Tips
Body Shape and Mouth
Look for an elongated, torpedo-shaped body with a distinctly upturned (superior) mouth, indicating a surface feeder.
Coloration and Pattern
Observe the golden-yellow to olive-green base color with prominent horizontal iridescent stripes or rows of spots along the sides. Males are more vibrant.
Dorsal Fin Spot
Check for a distinct black spot (ocellus) on the dorsal fin, particularly noticeable in females and juveniles.
Fin Placement
Note the posterior placement of the dorsal and anal fins, which are almost opposite each other.
Habitat
- Water type
- freshwater
- Depth
- Surface to shallow depths (typically less than 1 meter)
- Environment
- Found in slow-moving or stagnant freshwater bodies such as ponds, ditches, rice paddies, canals, and the vegetated margins of rivers and streams. They prefer areas with dense aquatic vegetation, floating plants, and submerged roots, which provide cover and hunting grounds.
- Geographic range
- Native to South Asia, specifically India and Sri Lanka. Its distribution extends across various states in India, including Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, and throughout Sri Lanka.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: beginner
- Temperament: semi-aggressive
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- pH level: 6.0-7.5
- Hardness: 5-15 dGH
- Compatibility: Can be kept with similarly sized, robust fish. Avoid very small or long-finned tankmates as they may be nipped. Best kept in a species-specific tank or with other killifish.
- Special requirements: Requires a well-covered tank as they are excellent jumpers. Prefers planted tanks with floating vegetation to provide cover and reduce stress. A varied diet of live and frozen foods is essential for optimal health and coloration.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Breeds year-round in suitable conditions, with increased activity during monsoon seasons in its native range.
- Market price: Low to moderate for aquarium trade
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: Not typically consumed
- Texture: Not typically consumed
- Nutritional value: Not typically consumed
Key Facts
Surface Predatorbehavior
Aplocheilus lineatus is a highly effective surface predator, primarily feeding on terrestrial and aquatic insects that fall onto the water surface or small invertebrates near the surface.
Jumping Abilitybehavior
These fish are renowned for their jumping ability, often leaping out of the water to catch insects or escape predators. This necessitates a tight-fitting lid for aquariums.
Sexual Dimorphisminteresting
Males are significantly more colorful and often larger than females, displaying vibrant golden-yellow and iridescent blue-green hues, especially during breeding.
Mosquito Controlinteresting
In their natural habitats, Striped Panchax play a role in controlling mosquito populations by preying on mosquito larvae and pupae, making them ecologically beneficial.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required. They are not venomous and do not possess sharp spines that pose a significant threat. Handle gently to avoid stress.
Similar Species
Green Panchax
Aplocheilus panchax
A. panchax typically has a more silvery-green body coloration and lacks the prominent golden-yellow hue and distinct horizontal stripes of A. lineatus. The dorsal fin spot in A. panchax is often less pronounced or absent in males.
Dwarf Panchax
Aplocheilus parvus
A. parvus is significantly smaller, reaching only about 3-4 cm in length. Its body is generally more slender, and its coloration is less vibrant, often with faint vertical bars rather than prominent horizontal stripes.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Cyprinodontiformes
- Family
- Aplocheilidae
- Genus
- Aplocheilus
- Species
- Aplocheilus lineatus
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