Neolebias Ansorgii

Datasheet

General Description

Ansorge's Neolebias, scientifically known as Neolebias Ansorgii, is a species of fish belonging to the family Characiformes. It is a small freshwater fish species, with males typically being more colorful than females. This species is known for its shy nature and stunning appearance when kept in suitable conditions.

Aquarium Setup

Neolebias Ansorgii thrives in a dimly lit aquarium setup with dense planting, floating vegetation for added shade, and dark substrate. Small pieces of driftwood should be included to provide hiding spots. To mimic its natural habitat, which is often stained with tannins, aquarium-safe peat can be added to the filter or substrate. A minimum tank size of 40 litres is recommended (see table).

Behaviour

This species of fish is quite shy and prefers to be kept in a species-specific setup. It does not fare well with aggressive or competitive tankmates. Neolebias Ansorgii is best maintained with small, peaceful species, although even in such setups, it may not be as visible as when kept alone due to its timid nature.

Feeding and Diet

Ansorge's Neolebias accepts dried food but prefers live or frozen varieties for optimal coloration display. Offering live or frozen food options is recommended to maintain the fish's health and vibrancy.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction of Neolebias Ansorgii is rarely achieved in aquarium settings. It is an egg-scatterer, with females depositing up to 300 eggs over several days. Males are slightly smaller than females but exhibit more vibrant colors, especially during breeding conditions. When spawning, they display a bright red underbelly.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Neolebias Ansorgii can be found in marshes, small heavily vegetated ponds, and creeks in countries such as Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Gabon, and Benin. The fish prefer habitats with soft water and a pH range of 5.0-6.0, as well as temperatures between 24-28 degrees Celsius.