Common Name
Ceylon Killifish, Day’s Killifish
Origin and Habitat
Endemic to Sri Lanka, Aplocheilus dayi inhabits shallow, shaded forest streams with silty bottoms and quiet margins, and it also turns up in brackish mangrove swamps where slow water and cover are abundant. In the wild it shares lowland wet zone waters with aquatic plants and overhanging vegetation, and it often occurs alongside Aplocheilus parvus in mangrove edges. Surface cover and calm pockets are important, and the fish spends much of its time near the top, hunting among floating leaves.
Temperature and Water Conditions
Preferred temperature is in the mid seventies Fahrenheit, roughly the low to mid twenties Celsius. This species tolerates fresh water well and can handle a range of water conditions with stable pH and soft to moderately hard water.
| Parameter | Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–77°F (21–25°C) |
| Water Type | Fresh to brackish |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Hardness | Soft to moderately hard |
FAQ
What kind of water conditions does the Ceylon Killifish prefer?
The Ceylon Killifish prefers temperatures between 70–77°F (21–25°C), fresh to brackish water, with a pH range of 6.0–7.5 and soft to moderately hard water.
Where in the wild is the Ceylon Killifish naturally found?
It is endemic to Sri Lanka and is found in shallow, shaded forest streams with silty bottoms and quiet margins, as well as in brackish mangrove swamps with slow-moving water and abundant cover.
Does the Ceylon Killifish require specific plants or cover in an aquarium?
Yes, surface cover and calm pockets are important. Floating leaves and overhanging vegetation provide essential hiding spots and hunting areas for the fish.
Robert Manning –
The Ceylon Killifish is active and curious, especially when there are floating leaves or plants. It enjoys the surface and moves around the top layer of the tank. Easy to keep with stable water conditions. Good for a small community tank with similar species.
Frank Avery –
I noticed it prefers calm areas near the surface. It doesn’t like strong currents. I added floating plants and it has settled well. Feeds well on small live foods and flakes. A peaceful addition to my tank.
Joanne Alsop –
This fish is very adaptable to my tank setup. I keep it with other small killifish and they coexist well. The water parameters are stable, and it stays active throughout the day. Great for beginners interested in tropical small fish.