Amiet's Killie (Aphyosemion amieti) — 3-4cm

Overview

The Amiet's Killie (Aphyosemion amieti) is a beautifully coloured, peaceful African killifish native to Cameroon in Central Africa. Reaching just 3.5cm in length, this rare nano species is prized for its vibrant colouration, elegant finnage, and fascinating breeding behaviour. Ideal for planted, covered aquariums with soft water and live foods, Aphyosemion amieti thrives in quiet species tanks or carefully chosen community setups. Available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this captivating killifish rewards dedicated keepers with a living jewel that shimmers with iridescent blues, greens, and reds.

Appearance and Coloration

Amiet's Killie displays dazzling metallic colouration with a slender body adorned in shimmering blues, greens, and reds. Males are more intensely coloured than females, with elongated dorsal and anal fins that feature intricate patterning and iridescent highlights. The caudal fin is often lyre-shaped or elongated, creating an elegant silhouette. Females are smaller, plumper, and more subdued in colour. Under subdued lighting in a planted tank with dark substrate and tannin-stained water, the colours become even more vibrant and eye-catching.

Natural Habitat

Aphyosemion amieti inhabits shallow, slow-moving streams, swamps, and seasonal pools in Cameroon, Central Africa. These biotopes are characterised by soft, slightly acidic, tannin-rich water, dense vegetation, submerged roots, and abundant leaf litter. Water flow is minimal, and the substrate consists of mud, sand, and organic debris. During the wet season, these fish spawn among fine-leaved plants or submerged vegetation; during the dry season, some populations may experience reduced water levels.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum 25-litre aquarium is sufficient for a pair or small group of Amiet's Killies. Use a fine sand substrate with plenty of live plants such as Cryptocoryne, Java moss, Microsorum, and floating species like Limnobium or Salvinia. Add dried leaves (Indian almond or oak) to release tannins and replicate the natural blackwater environment. Provide spawning mops or fine-leaved plants for egg deposition. Lighting should be dim, and filtration gentle to avoid strong currents. A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential, as killifish are excellent jumpers.

Feeding and Diet

As a carnivore, Aphyosemion amieti requires a varied, protein-rich diet to maintain health and colour. Offer small live or frozen foods such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, bloodworms, mosquito larvae, and grindal worms daily. High-quality micro-pellets or flakes may be accepted, but 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

Amiet's Killie is a peaceful, shy species that spends most of its time in the upper and middle water column among plants. Males may display to each other with flared fins and subtle posturing, but serious aggression is rare. These fish are most active during dawn and dusk, and they appreciate dimly lit aquariums with plenty of cover. They are not competitive feeders, so avoid housing them with boisterous or fast-moving species. In a well-planted species tank, they display natural behaviours and may spawn regularly.

Suitable Tank Mates

Aphyosemion amieti is best kept species-only or with very small, peaceful, non-competitive fish that share similar water requirements in a heavily planted tank. Suitable companions include tiny rasboras like Boraras species or Microdevario. Peaceful shrimp may be kept with caution, though juveniles are at risk. Avoid large fish, aggressive species, fin-nippers, and fast boisterous species. A calm, quiet environment is essential for this delicate killifish to thrive and display its full range of colours.

Breeding

Aphyosemion amieti can be bred in soft, slightly acidic water with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Condition a pair or small group with high-quality live foods, then provide spawning media such as Java moss or yarn mops. Eggs are usually laid among plants or mops and may be removed for separate incubation in moist or water-based conditions. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, graduating to newly hatched brine shrimp after a few days. Remove adults to prevent egg and fry predation. Breeding success is highest in pristine water conditions.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a trusted UK supplier of rare and specialist tropical fish, including hard-to-find killifish species like Aphyosemion amieti. 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 bring the beauty of Cameroonian waters into your home aquarium.