Pseudomugil Furcatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Forktail Blue-Eye, also known as the Forktail Rainbowfish or Yellow Forktail, has had several changes in scientific nomenclature since its original classification as Pseudomugil furcatus. It belongs to the family Pseudomugilidae and is related to rainbowfishes but differs in certain anatomical features. This species is a small fish, reaching a maximum size of 6.0 cm.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, the Forktail Blue-Eye should be kept in a densely-planted tank with floating plants and driftwood to provide cover and a natural environment. A fine-leaved aquatic moss like Taxiphylum spp. is recommended if breeding is desired. Well-oxygenated water with a moderate flow is essential, and sudden water chemistry changes should be avoided. The species is not suitable for biologically immature aquariums.

Behaviour

The Forktail Blue-Eye is a peaceful shoaling species that thrives in groups of 8-10 individuals. In a suitable community aquarium, they display fascinating behavior, especially during courtship when males compete for female attention. This species is suitable for aquariums with fish of similar size and temperament, such as cyprinids, gobiids, eleotrids, and smaller melanotaeniids.

Feeding and Diet

In the wild, the Forktail Blue-Eye feeds on floating or suspended zooplankton, phytoplankton, and invertebrates. In the aquarium, they should be offered live foods like Daphnia, Moina, and Artemia nauplii, although crushed dried foods are also accepted. Feeding should be regular, with smaller meals offered at least twice daily to maintain their health.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

The species is an egg-scatterer without parental care, and individuals will consume eggs and fry if given the chance. Spawning occurs in temperatures at the upper range, with females depositing eggs daily for several days. Males are more colorful and patterned than females, with extended unpaired fins as they mature. Breeding can be challenging due to the relatively few, large eggs produced and inbreeding issues that may affect fertility and fry deformity.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to Papua New Guinea, the Forktail Blue-Eye primarily inhabits heavily-vegetated forest streams with moderate current and clear water. The species has been recorded in several river basins within the country's Northern and Milne Bay provinces. Despite its popularity in the aquarium trade, wild specimens are not available, and all individuals in captivity originate from a single collection in 1981.