Hipsolebias pictorial

Hypsolebias picture, scientific name Hypsolebias picturatus, belongs to the family Rivulidae (Rivuliaceae). Native to South America, found in the eastern states of Brazil in the Sao Francisco River basin. Inhabits annually drying up swampy reservoirs, which are formed during the rainy season in flooded areas of tropical forests.

Like most representatives of the Killy Fish group, the life expectancy of this species is only one season – from the moment the annual rainy season begins, until the drought. For this reason, the life cycle is noticeably accelerated. They grow very quickly, already after 5-6 weeks from the moment of the appearance of Hypsolebias picture can begin to lay eggs.

The eggs are placed in a silty or peaty layer at the bottom, where they will stay throughout the dry season. In case of unfavorable conditions, the egg stage can last 6–10 months. When the external environment becomes favorable, rains begin, the juveniles hatch from their eggs and a new life cycle begins.

Description

The fish are characterized by pronounced sexual dimorphism. Males are larger and brighter colored. They reach a length of up to 4 cm and have a contrasting pattern of turquoise specks on a red background. Fins and tail are darker.

Females are slightly smaller – up to 3 cm in length. The color is gray with a slight reddish tinge. Fins and tail are translucent.

Both sexes are characterized by the presence of dark vertical strokes on the sides of the body.

Behavior and Compatibility

The main goal of the fleeting life of this fish is to give new offspring. Although males get along with each other, they show high competition for the attention of females. In most cases, the rivalry is demonstrative.

Species aquarium is recommended. Sharing with other species is limited. As neighbors, species similar in size can be considered.

Brief information:

• The volume of the aquarium – from 40 liters.
• Temperature – 20-30°C
• Value pH — 5.0–7.0
• Water hardness – 4–9 dGH
• Substrate type – soft silty, based on peat
• Lighting – subdued
• Brackish water – no
• Water movement – little or no
• Fish size – up to 4 cm
• Nutrition – live food
• Temperament – peaceful
• Content – in a group of 5-6 fish

Maintenance and care, arrangement of the aquarium

The optimal size of the aquarium for a group of 5-6 fish starts from 40-50 liters. The content is simple. For Hypsolebias picture it is necessary to provide soft acidic water with a temperature not higher than 28–30 ° C.

The presence of a layer of fallen leaves of some trees, as well as natural driftwood, is welcome. Natural materials will become a source of tannins and give the water a brownish tint characteristic of swamps.

When choosing plants, it is worth giving preference to floating species, which additionally shade the aquarium.

Food

Live foods are needed, such as brine shrimp, large daphnia, bloodworms, etc. Due to the short lifespan, Hypsolebias picture does not have time to adapt to alternative dry foods.

Reproduction

Since the fish are likely to breed, it is necessary to provide a special substrate for spawning in the design. As a primer, it is recommended to use material based on Peat moss Sphagnum.

At the end of spawning, the substrate with eggs is removed, placed in a separate container and left in a dark place at room temperature. After 3–5 months, the dried soil is immersed in water, after some time fry should appear from it.