Oaxacan Blue-Eye (Priapella intermedia) — 4-5cm

Overview

Oaxacan Blue-Eye (Priapella intermedia), also known as the Isthmian Priapella, is a rare, peaceful Mexican livebearer with striking blue eyes and active schooling behavior, ideal for a planted community aquarium. Endemic to Mexico, where it inhabits freshwater habitats in the Isthmus region, this species is prized for its delicate beauty, peaceful nature, and manageable size. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this charming livebearer is ideal for the specialist community aquarium keeper.

Appearance

The Oaxacan Blue-Eye typically reaches around 4.5 cm in total length, making it a small livebearer. The body is elongated and streamlined, with a pale silver or gold base color. The most striking feature is the vivid blue eyes, which give the species much of its visual appeal. The fins are delicate and transparent, often showing subtle hints of color in well-conditioned males. Females are generally larger and more robust. Healthy specimens have bright, clear blue eyes and smooth, undamaged scales.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Priapella intermedia is endemic to Mexico, where it inhabits freshwater streams, rivers, and pools in the Isthmus region. These waters are typically soft to moderately hard, warm, and slightly acidic to neutral. The substrate is composed of fine gravel or sand, and the fish spend much of their time among plants and cover, feeding on small invertebrates, algae, and organic detritus.

Aquarium Setup

A well-planted aquarium of at least 60 litres is recommended for a small group of Oaxacan Blue-Eyes. 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 hiding places. Ensure good filtration and gentle water movement. A secure lid is advisable, as livebearers can jump when startled. Maintain stable, warm water with neutral to slightly alkaline pH.

Feeding

The Oaxacan Blue-Eye is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet. Offer high-quality micro pellets or flakes as a staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and mosquito larvae, plus some vegetable matter or spirulina-based foods. Feed twice daily in small amounts to maintain excellent water quality.

Behaviour

This livebearer is peaceful, active, and social, constantly on the move and best kept in a small group. Males may display and spar lightly, but serious aggression is rare. When kept in proper numbers, the Oaxacan Blue-Eye is confident and displays natural behavior. They occupy all levels of the aquarium and are most active during the day.

Tank Mates

The Oaxacan Blue-Eye is suitable for a peaceful community aquarium with other small fish. Good tankmates include small peaceful community fish, other non-aggressive livebearers, small tetras, small peaceful bottom dwellers, and snails. Avoid large predatory fish, fin-nipping species, highly aggressive cichlids, very boisterous tankmates, and large shrimp-eating fish.

Breeding

Breeding the Oaxacan Blue-Eye is achievable with careful preparation. This is a livebearer that may breed readily in good conditions. Provide a planted tank and stable water. Adults may eat fry, so dense cover or a separate rearing setup improves survival.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering rare and beautiful livebearers like the Oaxacan Blue-Eye 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. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.