Blue Lyretail (Gardner's Killi)

Longevity:

Unlike strict annuals (*Nothobranchius*) that obligatorily die within 10 months due to accelerated aging, an *F. gardneri* kept in cool tanks (maximum 24°C / 75°F) and not overfed, can easily live 2 or 3 years in the aquarium.

Local Variants (Lokalformen):

Being widespread in West Africa, there are countless geographical variants collected by enthusiasts (e.g., *Nsukka*, *Lafia*, *Makurdi*, *P82*). The differences concern the intensity of the light blue or the thickness of the red/yellow bands on the fins. NEVER mix variants from different locations in the same aquarium to avoid hybridizations that would ruin the integrity of the strain.

Secure Setup:

Compared to microscopic annuals, this is a "massive" and stocky killifish. It requires a real aquarium, heavily planted, with a dark bottom (sand or Catappa leaves). The absolute imperative is the lid. The *F. gardneri* has the ability to find unthinkable openings to jump: cover even the cable holes with sponges.

The Convenience of the Semi-Annual:

This species lives on the ecological border between permanent swamps and streams that dry up. Therefore, it is "semi-annual" (or *switch-spawner*). The aquarist can choose: they can insert floating green acrylic wool "mops" in the tank; the fish will lay sticky eggs in them daily, which will hatch directly in the water after a couple of weeks (without having to dry anything). Or, they can place peat on the bottom and simulate a drought by collecting it and storing it damp for a month before wetting it.

Bold Temperament:

It is not the classic shy killifish that hides. Males will patrol the tank, chasing females and showing off (displaying) in front of the glass as soon as you approach. Just make sure you have 2-3 females for each male, as his continuous amorous attentions are stressful.