Fin's Fish Guide
The Banner lyretail (Aphyosemion calliurum) is a freshwater fish of the family Nothobranchiidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The banner lyretail is a small, colourful killifish of the family Nothobranchiidae from the coastal rainforest of West Africa. The species grows to about 5 cm; males are brilliantly blue-green with red markings and elongated, lyre-like tail-fin tips, females plain. It inhabits swamps and swampy parts of forest brooks, small streams and pools. Unlike the true seasonal killifishes this is not a seasonal species of drying pools. It feeds on small invertebrates and insects. The species is popular with killifish hobbyists and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banner lyretail?
The Banner lyretail has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Males blue-green with red markings and lyre-like caudal fin tips; not a seasonal killifish.
Where does the Banner lyretail live?
The Banner lyretail lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West Africa; swamps and forest streams of the coastal rainforest.
How big does the Banner lyretail get?
The Banner lyretail grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Banner lyretail dangerous to humans?
No, the Banner lyretail is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banner lyretail edible?
The Banner lyretail is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aphyosemion
More from the family Nothobranchiidae
Want the complete picture on the Banner lyretail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banner lyretail is one of 12,519 species in the app.