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Fundulopanchax gardneri
Care guide, husbandry, breeding, disease, and sourcing intelligence on Steel Blue Aphyosemion - written by the Fast Aquatics editorial team.
Steel Blue Aphyosemion requires a minimum of 10 gallons for healthy adults. The minimum is based on 2.5 inches adult size and territorial range. Plan a tank sized for adult footprint, HOB or canister filter rated 4-6x volume, dechlorinated water, appropriate temperature heater, and stocking-appropriate hardscape.
The Steel Blue Aphyosemion is rated intermediate difficulty on this care sheet. It needs a tank of at least 10 gallons. Adults reach about 2.5 inches and live 2-3 years. Steel Blue Aphyosemion (Fundulopanchax gardneri) is a intermediate-care freshwater species that thrives in tanks of 10 gallons or larger with stable parameters. Best paired with peaceful tankmates of similar size and water-chemistry needs.
Steel Blue Aphyosemion reaches 2.5 inches at adulthood with a captive lifespan of 2-3 years with proper care. The minimum is based on 2.5 inches adult size and territorial range. Plan a tank sized for adult footprint, HOB or canister filter rated 4-6x volume, dechlorinated water, appropriate temperature heater, and stocking-appropriate hardscape.
Steel Blue Aphyosemion is susceptible to standard freshwater diseases (ich, columnaris, fin rot, bacterial infections). Quarantine new Steel Blue Aphyosemion for 4 weeks before adding to display. Steel Blue Aphyosemion prefers freshwater parameters: temperature 74-80°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-12 dGH, KH 3-8 dKH, ammonia + nitrite 0 ppm, nitrate under 20 ppm. Use dechlorinator on every water change.
Other species in the same category with care profiles on Fast Aquatics. Click any name for the full husbandry breakdown.
Steel Blue Aphyosemion taxonomy and care recommendations cross-checked against the following authoritative references and our internal vendor + breeder database.
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