Aphyosemion bitaeniatum “Lagos”
Fundulopanchax bitaeniatum
Common names: Lagos Bitaeniatum, Two-Stripe Killifish
Overview
Fundulopanchax bitaeniatum “Lagos” is one of the most colourful West African killifish, known for its neon blue lateral stripes, fire-red fin margins, and elegant lyre-shaped tail. The Lagos population is regarded as one of the most striking regional forms, showing intense red, blue, and yellow body patterns.
This species is peaceful, moderately hardy, and highly rewarding to keep. It thrives in planted aquaria and is an excellent choice for keepers wanting something more special than the common gardneri.
Distribution
Lagos region, Nigeria
Found in small creeks, swamps, and forest pools
Soft, acidic, tannin-rich water with dense vegetation
Note: "Lagos" refers to the collection locality/population, not a colour morph.
Size
6–7.5 cm
Males larger with long lyretail
Lifespan
2.5–4 years
Appearance
Metallic blue horizontal stripe from eye to caudal peduncle
Second faint stripe below (hence “bitaeniatum”)
Bold red spotting and fin edging
Extended lyre-tail in males
Females: duller, brownish with subtle markings
Behaviour & Temperament
Peaceful, active, display-oriented males
Best kept as pair or trio
Good for nano and planted tanks
Jumpers—tight lids essential
They are more confident and visible when the tank has dense plants and floating cover.
Aquarium Requirements
Tank Size
25–40 L for a pair or trio
Larger tanks allow more display behaviour
Water Parameters
Temperature: 22–26°C
pH: 5.5–7.0
GH: 1–8 dGH
Prefers soft, acidic conditions but adapts well
Substrate & Décor
Dark sand or fine gravel
Dense plants (moss, Ceratophyllum, Nymphaea, Anubias)
Floating plants to reduce light and provide security
Leaf litter for tannins and microfauna
Use spawning mops if breeding
Filtration & Flow
Gentle sponge filter
Avoid strong currents
Stable, clean water required
Diet
A micro-predator with strong preference for live foods:
Baby brine shrimp
Daphnia
Mosquito larvae
Microworms
Frozen varieties acceptable
High-quality small pellets or soft granules
Feed small portions often for best colour and conditioning.
Tankmates
Good choices:
Small, peaceful tetras (neons, embers, greens)
Pencilfish
Smaller rasboras
Otocinclus
Shrimp (neocaridina or larger)
Avoid:
Fin-nippers
Fast feeders
Anything boisterous or territorial
Other killifish unless in very large tank
Often best in species-only setups.
Breeding
Moderately easy with correct setup.
Spawning
Use spawning mops, Java moss, or fine plants
Pair or trio will spawn daily
Eggs are adhesive
Remove eggs/mops to raise fry safely
Incubation
10–18 days depending on temperature
No dry incubation required (non-annual species)
Fry Care
Infusoria / microworms for first days
Baby brine shrimp soon after
Fry grow quickly with clean, warm water
Care Level
Moderate
Main challenges:
Sensitive to strong flow
Needs a secure lid
Appreciates soft, stable water
Needs high-quality live foods to show best colour