Red Aphyosemion, Golden Phe (Aphyosemion occidentale) — 4-6cm

Overview

Red Aphyosemion (Aphyosemion occidentale), also known as the Golden Pheasant, is a strikingly beautiful West African killifish renowned for its vivid red-gold coloration and elegant finnage. Native to coastal streams and swampy forest habitats in Sierra Leone and neighboring regions, this species has long been a favorite among killifish enthusiasts for its manageable size, peaceful temperament, and rewarding breeding behavior. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this captivating fish is ideal for the planted aquarium keeper seeking a splash of color and a touch of the exotic.

Appearance

Reaching around 6 cm in total length, the Red Aphyosemion is one of the more robust and visually impressive killifish species. Males exhibit intense red and golden hues across their bodies and fins, often with intricate spotting or striping patterns that become more pronounced during spawning displays. The dorsal and anal fins are elongated and flowing, giving the fish a graceful, almost ethereal appearance. Females are smaller and much more subdued in color, typically showing pale gold or olive tones. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, unblemished scales.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Aphyosemion occidentale inhabits slow-moving streams, forest pools, and swampy areas with dense vegetation and significant leaf litter. The water is typically soft, acidic, and heavily stained with tannins, providing a dark, sheltered environment. The substrate is composed of fine mud, sand, and decomposing plant matter, and the dense canopy above keeps light levels low. These habitats experience seasonal fluctuations in water level, and the species has adapted to tolerate a range of conditions, though it prefers stable, clean water.

Aquarium Setup

A small aquarium of at least 20 litres is sufficient for a pair or small group of Red Aphyosemion, though larger tanks are always beneficial. Use a fine, dark substrate and incorporate plenty of live plants such as Java moss, Java fern, and Cryptocoryne species, along with floating plants to provide cover and reduce lighting. Add driftwood, dried leaves, or peat extract to replicate the tannin-rich waters of their natural habitat. Filtration should be gentle but effective, and a tightly fitting lid is essential, as this species is an excellent jumper. Subdued lighting and minimal water movement will help the fish settle and display their best colors.

Feeding

The Red Aphyosemion is a carnivore and thrives on a diet rich in small live and frozen foods. Offer bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, and mosquito larvae daily, and supplement with quality micro-pellets or finely crushed flakes if the fish accept them. Live foods should form the majority of the diet, as they enhance coloration, support breeding condition, and mimic the natural prey items this species would encounter in the wild. Feed twice daily in small portions to avoid overfeeding and maintain pristine water quality.

Behaviour

This killifish is peaceful and undemanding, spending much of its time exploring the lower and middle regions of the aquarium among plants and cover. Males may engage in gentle territorial displays, fanning their fins and showing off to rivals or potential mates, but serious aggression is uncommon. They are best kept in a quiet, well-planted tank where they can feel secure. A ratio of one male to two or three females is ideal, as this reduces male-on-male competition and encourages natural breeding behaviors.

Tank Mates

Red Aphyosemion is best kept in a species-only setup, where its delicate nature and specific care requirements can be fully appreciated. If tankmates are desired in a larger aquarium, choose only very small, peaceful, non-competitive species such as small microrasboras or dwarf Corydoras. Avoid any large, boisterous, or fin-nipping fish, as well as fast, competitive feeders. Peaceful shrimp may be eaten, especially juveniles, and large predatory invertebrates should be excluded.

Breeding

Breeding the Red Aphyosemion is a rewarding experience for dedicated keepers. This species is an egg-scatterer, and spawning typically occurs among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops placed in the aquarium. Eggs are usually collected and incubated separately in moist peat or similar media, depending on the strain and collection locality. Provide soft, clean water, plenty of live foods to condition adults, and subdued lighting to encourage spawning. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, graduating to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist, offering rare and beautiful killifish species like the Red Aphyosemion direct to your door. Every fish is carefully quarantined, health-checked, and packed with expert care to ensure safe arrival. With transparent pricing, fast UK delivery, and a knowledgeable support team on hand to answer your questions, we make it easy to add stunning, specialist species to your collection. Whether you're a seasoned killifish enthusiast or a curious newcomer, we're here to help you create a thriving aquarium. Order online today and discover why so many UK aquarists trust Tropical Fish Co for quality and service.