Neolebias Trilineatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Three-Lined Neolebias, scientifically known as Neolebias Trilineatus, is a species of tetra originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo. This small fish can grow up to 3.5cm in size and is a peaceful addition to smaller community tanks.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for the Three-Lined Neolebias, a minimum tank size of 40 litres is recommended. The tank should be densely planted, including floating vegetation for cover, with a dark substrate and small driftwood pieces for hiding places. The water conditions should mimic its natural habitat, with soft, acidic water (pH 6.0-7.2), hardness ranging from 3-15 dH, and a temperature between 23-26°C (73-79°F).

Behaviour

Three-Lined Neolebias are extremely shy shoaling fish that prefer the company of small, peaceful tankmates. They are not suited for tanks with boisterous or competitive fish. In community tanks, they may hide more frequently unless ample hiding spots are provided.

Feeding and Diet

While Three-Lined Neolebias will accept dried food, they thrive on live or frozen varieties, displaying their best coloration when fed such a diet. Offering a variety of live and frozen foods will ensure their health and vibrancy.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction of Three-Lined Neolebias is rare in aquarium settings, with limited available information. They are egg-scatterers, with females laying up to 300 eggs during spawning. Males, which are slightly smaller than females, exhibit more vibrant colors, especially during breeding conditions.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Three-Lined Neolebias are found in the freshwater habitats of the Democratic Republic of Congo. They prefer environments with soft, acidic water and minimal lighting, often residing among vegetation. These factors should be replicated in their captive environment to ensure their well-being.