Metallic Topminnow, Girardi (Girardinus metallicus) — 3-4cm

Overview

Metallic Topminnow (Girardinus metallicus), also known as the Metallic Livebearer, is a hardy, attractive Cuban livebearer with metallic sheen and fascinating male color morphs, ideal for peaceful planted aquariums. Native to Cuba, including the main island and Isla de la Juventud, this species is prized for its shimmering appearance, peaceful nature, and easy breeding habits. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this charming livebearer is ideal for the community aquarium enthusiast.

Appearance

The Metallic Topminnow typically reaches around 3.5 cm in total length, making it a small livebearer. The body is robust and deep-bodied, with a shimmering metallic silver or gold base color that shows vivid iridescence under good lighting. Males may display different color morphs, with some showing vivid blue, green, or yellow highlights, while others remain more subdued. Females are generally larger, more robust, and less colorful. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged scales.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Girardinus metallicus is native to Cuba, including the main island and Isla de la Juventud, 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.

Aquarium Setup

A well-planted aquarium of at least 60 litres is recommended for a small group of Metallic Topminnows. 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 moderate water movement. A secure lid is advisable, as livebearers can jump when startled. Maintain stable, warm water with slightly alkaline pH.

Feeding

The Metallic Topminnow is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet. Offer high-quality flake or micro-pellets as a staple, supplemented with frozen and live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, and small insect prey. Include some vegetable matter or algae-based foods to support digestive health. 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 be persistent toward females, so a larger group with more females than males helps reduce stress. When kept in proper numbers, the Metallic Topminnow is confident and displays natural behavior. They occupy all levels of the aquarium and are most active during the day.

Tank Mates

The Metallic Topminnow is suitable for a peaceful community aquarium with other small fish. Good tankmates include small peaceful fish of similar size, ideally species-only or with very calm tankmates, snails, and possibly shrimp (though very small shrimp may be eaten). Avoid large predatory fish, fin-nipping species, aggressive cichlids, large barbs, and any fish large enough to eat them.

Breeding

Breeding the Metallic Topminnow is straightforward. This is a livebearer that breeds readily in good conditions. Provide a planted tank with cover, and separate fry if you want to raise more young. Males may show different color morphs, and females can store sperm for multiple broods. Fry are free-swimming at birth and can be raised on very small live foods.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering rare and beautiful livebearers like the Metallic Topminnow 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 peaceful, colorful species to your collection. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.