Afinis Pearl Fish (Cynolebias afinis) — 3-4cm

Overview

The Afinis Pearl Fish (Cynolebias afinis) is a beautiful, small annual killifish native to seasonal freshwater habitats in Brazil. Reaching just 3.5cm in length, this peaceful species is prized for its pearl-like patterning and fascinating breeding biology. As an annual killifish adapted to temporary pools that dry seasonally, Cynolebias afinis has a compressed life cycle and unique reproductive strategy. Available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this rare species rewards dedicated keepers with unique behaviour and stunning appearance in species-only aquariums.

Appearance and Coloration

The Afinis Pearl Fish displays delicate pearl-like colouration with a compact, slender body adorned in soft blues, greens, and yellows with iridescent pearly spots scattered across the scales. Males are more intensely coloured than females, with more pronounced finnage and a bolder presence. The fins often feature subtle red or orange highlights that shimmer under subdued lighting. Females are smaller, plumper, and more subdued in colour. In a planted tank with dark substrate, the pearly spots become even more visible and eye-catching.

Natural Habitat

Cynolebias afinis is native to seasonal freshwater habitats in Brazil, where it inhabits temporary pools and wetlands that fill with water during the wet season and dry completely during the dry season. The water is typically soft, slightly acidic, and well-vegetated, with a substrate of mud and organic debris. During the wet season, adults spawn rapidly; as pools dry, adults perish while eggs remain dormant in dried substrate, hatching when rains return months later.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum 20-litre aquarium is sufficient for a pair or small group of Afinis Pearl Fish. Use a fine sand or soft peat substrate to replicate the natural spawning medium. Include live plants such as Cryptocoryne, Java moss, and floating species like Salvinia or Limnobium. Provide spawning mops or peat moss for egg deposition. Lighting should be subdued, and filtration gentle to avoid strong currents. A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential. Maintain excellent water quality, as annual killifish are sensitive to pollution and poor conditions.

Feeding and Diet

As a carnivore, Cynolebias afinis requires a varied, protein-rich diet to maintain health and colour. Offer a varied diet of small live and frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, and insect larvae daily. Some individuals may accept quality micro-pellets or frozen carnivore foods after acclimation. Live and frozen foods are essential for conditioning and breeding. Feed small portions twice daily, removing uneaten food promptly to maintain pristine water quality. Variety and freshness are critical for optimal health and vibrant colouration.

Behaviour and Temperament

The Afinis Pearl Fish is a peaceful species that spends most of its time exploring the lower and middle water column. Males may display to each other during courtship with flared fins and subtle posturing, but serious aggression is rare. These fish have a naturally short lifespan of typically 6-12 months, reflecting their annual biology. They are most active during the day and appreciate a dimly lit aquarium with plenty of cover. They are not competitive feeders, so avoid housing them with boisterous or fast-moving species.

Suitable Tank Mates

Cynolebias afinis is best kept species-only to accommodate its unique breeding biology and short lifespan. If tankmates are used, only very small, peaceful, similarly sized fish that tolerate warm water and do not outcompete them for food should be considered. Avoid large fish, fast-feeding fish, aggressive fish, fin-nippers, and predatory fish. A calm, quiet environment is essential for this delicate annual killifish to thrive.

Breeding

This annual killifish typically lays eggs in soft substrate or spawning media. Condition a pair or small group with high-quality live foods, then provide spawning media such as peat moss or fine sand. Eggs often require a drying/incubation period before hatching, depending on the strain and conditions. Collect eggs carefully and store in slightly damp peat in a sealed container. Fry hatch when the peat is re-flooded and require infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp. Breeding success depends on careful egg management and maintaining pristine water quality.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a trusted UK supplier of rare and specialist tropical fish, including hard-to-find annual killifish species like Cynolebias afinis. We guarantee healthy, well-conditioned stock, expert care advice, and secure nationwide delivery. Every fish is quarantined and inspected before dispatch, ensuring you receive only the finest specimens. Whether you're setting up a dedicated killifish tank or adding a rare species to your collection, Tropical Fish Co offers unmatched quality and customer service. Order online today and experience the beauty of Brazilian annual killifish.