Fin's Fish Guide
The Plumed lyretail (Fundulopanchax filamentosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Nothobranchiidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The plumed lyretail is a small, colourful egg-laying toothcarp of the family Nothobranchiidae reaching about 6 cm. The sexes differ strongly: males are blue-green with rows of red spots and plume-like extensions on the dorsal, tail and anal fins, while females are inconspicuously brown. The species lives in shallow rain pools, streams and swamps of West Africa, such as Nigeria and Benin, which partly dry up in the dry season. Just below the surface it hunts insects, larvae and small zooplankton. In the rainy season it lays its eggs in the bottom or among plants; these can bridge dry periods. Because of its colour it is a popular aquarium killifish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Plumed lyretail?
The Plumed lyretail has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Small, colourful killifish; males are blue-green with red spots and plume-like extended fin tips, females inconspicuous brown.
Where does the Plumed lyretail live?
The Plumed lyretail lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West Africa, in shallow rain pools, small streams and swamps.
How big does the Plumed lyretail get?
The Plumed lyretail grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Plumed lyretail dangerous to humans?
No, the Plumed lyretail is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Plumed lyretail edible?
The Plumed lyretail is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Fundulopanchax
More from the family Nothobranchiidae
Want the complete picture on the Plumed lyretail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Plumed lyretail is one of 12,519 species in the app.