Aplocheilus lineatus
The golden wonder killifish is a large Aplocheilus panchax relative from South Asia, valued for golden-yellow colour and bold surface hunting behaviour. It has a big mouth for its body—very small fish or fry may be eaten. Hardy and undemanding compared to many annual killifish; accepts pellets but colour and condition improve with insect-based frozen and live foods. Jumpers—lid required. Territorial at the surface; avoid two males in small tanks. Egg scatterers among plants; no brood care.
Floating pellets; frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, or crickets (pinhead); live foods for enrichment.
Frequency: 1–2× daily
Avoid stocking with fish small enough to fit in the mouth.
Native Region: South Asia (India, Sri Lanka—slow streams, rice paddies, ditches)
Warm shallow water with vegetation and insects at the surface.
Long tank footprint; floating plants; open surface for hunting; peaceful mid-water fish of appropriate size.
Activity Level: High
Waits under floating cover then strikes prey at surface; can bully similar surface fish in cramped tanks.
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Egg scatterer
Sexual Dimorphism: Males often brighter with more extended fins; females fuller-bodied.
Eggs among fine plants; adults may eat eggs—dense planting or separate spawning tank.
Substrate: Either
Plant Safe: Yes
Secure lid; line-of-sight breaks if keeping multiple males.
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