Humpbacked Limia+D2091 (Limia nigrofasciata) — 3-4cm

Overview

Humpbacked Limia (Limia nigrofasciata), also known as the Black-Barred Limia, is a rare, peaceful Haitian livebearer with striking black barring and a distinctive male hump, ideal for hard-water community aquariums. Endemic to Haiti on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, this critically endangered species is prized for its unique appearance, peaceful nature, and fascinating breeding behavior. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this uncommon livebearer is ideal for the specialist community aquarium keeper.

Appearance

The Humpbacked Limia typically reaches around 6 cm in total length, making it a small to medium-sized livebearer. The body is robust and deep-bodied, with a pale silver or gold base color marked with bold vertical black bars along the flanks. Males develop a distinctive hump on the back as they mature, which gives the species its common name. Females are larger, more robust, and less colorful. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged scales.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Limia nigrofasciata is endemic to Haiti on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, where it inhabits slow-moving streams, ponds, marshes, and coastal lagoons with dense aquatic vegetation. These waters are typically moderately hard, warm, and slightly alkaline. The substrate is composed of fine mud or sand, and the fish spend much of their time among plants and cover, feeding on small invertebrates, algae, and organic detritus. The species is critically endangered in the wild due to habitat loss.

Aquarium Setup

A well-planted aquarium of at least 75 litres is recommended for a small group of Humpbacked Limias. Use a fine gravel or sand substrate and incorporate plenty of live plants such as Vallisneria, Java fern, Cryptocoryne species, and floating plants to provide cover and grazing surfaces. Ensure good filtration and moderate water movement. A secure lid is advisable, as livebearers can jump when startled. Maintain stable, warm water with hard, alkaline pH.

Feeding

The Humpbacked Limia is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet. Offer quality flake or small pellet foods as a staple, supplemented with vegetable matter such as spirulina, blanched greens, and occasional frozen or live foods like daphnia and brine shrimp. Feed twice daily in small amounts to maintain excellent water quality. Provide plenty of algae and vegetable grazing opportunities.

Behaviour

This livebearer is peaceful, active, and social, constantly on the move and best kept in a small group. Males may develop a pronounced hump as they mature and will court females continuously, but serious aggression is rare. Keep a ratio of more females than males to reduce stress. They occupy all levels of the aquarium and are most active during the day.

Tank Mates

The Humpbacked Limia is suitable for a hard-water community aquarium with other peaceful fish. Good tankmates include other peaceful livebearers, peaceful hard-water community fish of similar size, and non-aggressive bottom dwellers that tolerate similar hard, alkaline conditions. Avoid large predatory fish, fin-nipping species, aggressive cichlids, very delicate soft-water species, and species requiring acidic, very soft water.

Breeding

Breeding the Humpbacked Limia is straightforward. This is a livebearer that usually breeds readily in suitable warm, hard, alkaline water. Keep a ratio of more females than males. Fry are free-swimming at birth and should be protected from adults if you want to raise them.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering rare and critically endangered livebearers like the Humpbacked Limia direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add rare, specialist species to your collection and support conservation efforts. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.