# Monitarium

> The living logbook for your aquariums, paludariums and terrariums: water parameters, curves, thresholds, reminders — and an encyclopedia of 829 species.

## Encyclopedia

Source : https://monitarium.com/encyclopedia

### Freshwater
Source : /encyclopedia/eau-douce

#### Fish
Source : /encyclopedia/poissons

##### [Heckel's acara](/encyclopedia/acarichthys-heckelii)
**Acarichthys heckelii** — Cichlidae · fish
Elegant cichlid with elongated fins, peaceful and suitable for Amazonian community tanks. Prefers acidic water.
Acarichthys heckelii grows up to 18 cm. Its body is elongated, silvery with bluish reflections and a horizontal black line. The dorsal and anal fins are long and tapered, giving a graceful appearance. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools in the wild. It is very peaceful and can coexist with tetras, corydoras, and other calm cichlids. It requires acidic, soft water to thrive. Breeding is possible in aquariums, on a hard surface or in a cave.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 18cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended for a group. Ideal temperature is 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, GH 2–8. Fine sand substrate, roots, and catappa leaves create a favorable environment. Diet is omnivorous: small pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetables. It is compatible with most peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive species. Regular 20% weekly water changes are necessary. Breeding is facilitated by soft, acidic water with a bonded pair.

##### [Green terror](/encyclopedia/aequidens-rivulatus)
**Aequidens rivulatus** — Cichlidae · fish
Large South American cichlid with metallic green body, known for its aggression and beauty.
The green terror reaches 20-25 cm. It has a robust body of bright green with blue iridescence and an orange-red caudal fin. Males are larger and have a prominent nuchal hump. It is very territorial and aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It lives in pairs and digs the substrate. In the aquarium, it requires a large volume and hiding places. Breeding is relatively easy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 300 liters for a pair. Neutral to slightly alkaline water (pH 6.5-7.5), temperature 24-28°C, GH 5-15. Carnivorous/omnivorous diet: pellets, fish, shrimp, worms. Can coexist with other large robust cichlids, but avoid smaller fish. Sandy substrate and rocks are needed. Breeding is simple, parents guard eggs. Monitor nitrates (max 30 mg/L) and phosphates (max 1 mg/L).

##### [Agassiz's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-agassizii)
**Apistogramma agassizii** — Cichlidae · fish
A small, colorful dwarf cichlid, ideal for planted aquariums.
Apistogramma agassizii is a dwarf cichlid from the Amazon. Males display bright colors from yellow to red, with elongated fins. Females are duller but fiercely protect their spawn. This species prefers soft, acidic water rich in tannins.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a species tank or with peaceful fish. Provide hiding places (roots, leaf litter). Soft water (GH < 8, KH < 3), pH 5.5-6.5, temperature 24-28°C. Feed live or frozen foods.

##### [Atahualpa dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-atahualpa)
**Apistogramma atahualpa** — Cichlidae · fish
A recently described dwarf cichlid with bright colors and typical Apistogramma behavior.
Apistogramma atahualpa reaches 5-6 cm. Males are very colorful with red and blue dorsal and caudal fins. Females are duller. It is territorial but peaceful. It prefers very soft, acidic water. Breeding is similar to other Apistogramma, with maternal care.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 liters. Very soft water (GH 1-5, KH 0-3) and acidic (pH 5.0-6.5), temperature 24-28°C. Many hiding places. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small pellets. Sensitive species. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Breeding in a species tank.

##### [Baensch's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-baenschi)
**Apistogramma baenschi** — Cichlidae · fish
A peaceful and colorful dwarf cichlid, ideal for planted aquariums. Males display a bright yellow body with black stripes.
Apistogramma baenschi reaches up to 6 cm. The male is larger and more colorful than the female, with red spots on the dorsal and caudal fins. The female is duller, pale yellow with a black lateral stripe. It is a territorial but non-aggressive species that lives in pairs or harems. During breeding, the female turns bright yellow and guards the eggs in a cave. It originates from soft, acidic waters in Peru.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep in an aquarium of at least 60 L, with gentle filtration and low current. Water should be acidic (pH 5.0-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-5). Ideal temperature 25-28°C. Feed with live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia). Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Provide hiding places (roots, leaves, pots). Breeding is possible in a species tank. Avoid overly active tankmates.

##### [Two-striped Apistogramma](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-bitaeniata)
**Apistogramma bitaeniata** — Cichlidae · fish
A dwarf cichlid with an elongated body and two horizontal black stripes. Peaceful but territorial, ideal for a planted aquarium.
Apistogramma bitaeniata reaches up to 7 cm. Its body is elongated with two distinct black stripes on the flanks. The fins are often adorned with blue and red spots in males. The female is smaller and duller. It is a territorial but not very aggressive fish outside breeding. It lives in pairs or harems. It appreciates hiding spots like roots and dead leaves. In the aquarium, it stays near the substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10. Minimum 80-liter tank for a pair or harem. Water should be soft to moderately hard with moderate filtration. Feed with meaty foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms, cichlid pellets. Dense plants and hiding spots are important. Avoid overly active fish. Compatible with peaceful tetras and corydoras.

##### [Borelli's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-borellii)
**Apistogramma borellii** — Cichlidae · fish
Borelli's dwarf cichlid is a peaceful dwarf cichlid with bluish and yellow colors.
It reaches 5–7 cm. Males have elongated dorsal and anal fins, with metallic blue and yellow colors. Females are smaller and pale yellow. One of the most peaceful apistogrammas, can live in groups. Less territorial than other species. Hardy and easy to breed.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, moderate hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a pair or small group. Water can be slightly acidic to neutral. Décor with plants, driftwood and hiding spots. Diet: small live or frozen foods, pellets. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Very tolerant.

##### [Cockatoo dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-cacatuoides)
**Apistogramma cacatuoides** — Cichlidae · fish
The cockatoo dwarf cichlid is a dwarf cichlid with spectacular fins, especially in males.
Males reach up to 8 cm, females 5 cm. Males have large fan-shaped dorsal and caudal fins with elongated rays. Colors vary from yellow to red, with black spots. Females are smaller and yellow. Territorial but can coexist with other peaceful species. Very interesting to observe.
Parameters: Temperature 25-29°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 25–29°C, pH 5.5–7.0, low hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a pair. Water must be well filtered and stable. Décor with driftwood, oak leaves, and plants. Diet: small live or frozen foods, pellets. Compatible with peaceful tetras. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. The female is very protective of eggs.

##### [Black-tailed dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-eremnopyge)
**Apistogramma eremnopyge** — Cichlidae · fish
A dwarf cichlid with a metallic blue body and characteristic black tail. Peaceful but territorial species.
Apistogramma eremnopyge reaches 5-6 cm. The male has an iridescent blue body with green highlights, a tall dorsal fin, and a contrasting black tail. The female is smaller, pale yellow with a black lateral stripe and a less marked tail. It is a benthic species that lives near the substrate. It is territorial during breeding but remains compatible with other small peaceful cichlids. The female lays eggs in a cave and cares for them alone.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Aquarium of at least 60 L, with acidic water (pH 5.0-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-4). Temperature 24-28°C. Gentle filtration, low flow. Small live or frozen food. Provide hiding places (roots, pots, oak leaves). Compatible with tetras and small catfish. Avoid aggressive species. Breeding possible in pairs or harems.

##### [Gephyra dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-gephyra)
**Apistogramma gephyra** — Cichlidae · fish
A discreet dwarf cichlid with a silvery body and bluish fins. Peaceful bottom-dwelling species.
Apistogramma gephyra reaches 5-6 cm. The male has a silvery body with blue highlights, a pointed dorsal fin, and a slightly forked caudal fin. The female is smaller, pale yellow with a black stripe. This species is less colorful than other apistogrammas but very interesting behaviorally. It lives in pairs and defends a small territory. Breeding occurs in a cave; the female turns bright yellow and guards the eggs. It is endemic to the Rio Negro.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 4.5-6, GH 1-3
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Aquarium of at least 60 L, very acidic water (pH 4.5-6.0) and very soft (GH 1-3). Temperature 24-27°C. Gentle filtration, low flow. Live food (brine shrimp, bloodworms). Provide many hiding places (roots, catappa leaves). Compatible with dwarf tetras and catfish. Avoid lively species. Easy breeding in pairs.

##### [Hongslo's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-hongsloi)
**Apistogramma hongsloi** — Cichlidae · fish
A very colorful dwarf cichlid, popular in the hobby. Males display red, blue, and yellow.
Apistogramma hongsloi reaches up to 7 cm. The male is spectacular with an orange-yellow body, red dorsal and caudal fins edged in blue, and a black stripe through the eye. The female is smaller, pale yellow with a black lateral stripe. It is a territorial species but generally peaceful with similarly sized fish. The female lays eggs in a cave and becomes very aggressive to protect the spawn. It originates from acidic waters in Colombia.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 80 L, acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0) and soft (GH 2-6). Temperature 24-28°C. Moderate filtration, low flow. Varied diet: live, frozen, pellets. Provide hiding places (pots, roots). Compatible with tetras, corydoras, other peaceful apistogrammas. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. Easy breeding in pairs.

##### [Inirida dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-iniridae)
**Apistogramma iniridae** — Cichlidae · fish
An elegant dwarf cichlid with a silvery blue body and yellow fins. Rare in the hobby.
Apistogramma iniridae reaches 5-6 cm. The male has a silvery blue body with green highlights, a bright yellow dorsal fin, and a yellow caudal fin. The female is smaller, pale yellow with a black stripe. This species is little known and rarely imported. It lives in very acidic, mineral-poor waters. Its behavior is similar to other apistogrammas: territorial but peaceful. Breeding occurs in a cave; the female turns intense yellow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 4.5-6, GH 1-3
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Aquarium of at least 60 L, very acidic water (pH 4.5-6.0) and very soft (GH 1-3). Temperature 24-27°C. Gentle filtration, low flow. Small live food (micro worms, nauplii). Provide many hiding places (roots, catappa leaves). Compatible with dwarf tetras and catfish. Avoid any aggressive competition. Breeding delicate, requires pristine water.

##### [MacMaster's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-macmasteri)
**Apistogramma macmasteri** — Cichlidae · fish
A colorful dwarf cichlid from Colombia, popular in the aquarium hobby for its bright colors and interesting behavior.
Apistogramma macmasteri reaches about 5-6 cm. Males are larger and more colorful than females, with red and blue spots on the dorsal and caudal fins. Females are duller but have a black lateral spot. It is territorial but generally peaceful outside breeding. It prefers soft, acidic water with dense vegetation and hiding places. Its breeding behavior is fascinating, with the female tending eggs while the male defends the territory.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a tank of at least 60 liters for a pair. Water should be soft (GH 2-10, KH 1-5) and acidic (pH 5.5-7.0) with a temperature of 24-28°C. Provide plenty of hiding places (roots, leaf litter, clay pots). Feed a varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small pellets. It is peaceful but territorial during breeding. Avoid very active or large fish. A species tank is recommended for breeding.

##### [Nijssen's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-nijsseni)
**Apistogramma nijsseni** — Cichlidae · fish
An elegant dwarf cichlid with elongated fins, endemic to Peru.
Apistogramma nijsseni reaches 5-6 cm. Males have highly developed dorsal and caudal fins, with blue and yellow colors. Females are smaller and yellow with a black spot. It is peaceful but territorial. It prefers very soft, acidic water. Breeding is typical, with female guarding eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 liters. Very soft water (GH 1-5, KH 0-3) and acidic (pH 5.0-6.5), temperature 24-28°C. Many hiding places and leaf litter. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small worms. Sensitive species. Compatible with other small dwarf cichlids. Breeding in a species tank recommended.

##### [Panduro dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-panduro)
**Apistogramma panduro** — Cichlidae · fish
A dwarf cichlid with interesting behavior and strong sexual dimorphism.
Apistogramma panduro is a recently described dwarf cichlid. Males are large and colorful with high dorsal fins. Females are smaller and yellow. They live in pairs and are territorial. Water must be very soft and acidic.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 5-6, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60L, heavily planted with hiding spots. Very soft water (GH < 5, KH < 2), pH 5.0-6.0, temperature 25-28°C. Varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small insects. Avoid aggressive tankmates.

##### [Three-striped dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-trifasciata)
**Apistogramma trifasciata** — Cichlidae · fish
A dwarf cichlid with an elongated body and three distinctive horizontal stripes, native to Brazil.
Apistogramma trifasciata reaches 5-7 cm. It is distinguished by three dark horizontal stripes on the body. Males are larger and more colorful with bluish fins. Females are smaller and yellowish. It is peaceful but territorial. It prefers very soft, acidic water. Breeding occurs on hard substrate, with female caring for eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 liters. Very soft water (GH 1-5, KH 0-3) and acidic (pH 5.0-6.5), temperature 24-28°C. Many hiding places and leaf litter. Diet: small invertebrates, brine shrimp, daphnia. Sensitive to water quality. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Breeding possible in a species tank.

##### [Viejita dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-viejita)
**Apistogramma viejita** — Cichlidae · fish
A highly colorful dwarf cichlid, closely related to Apistogramma macmasteri, with shades of red and blue.
Apistogramma viejita reaches 5-6 cm. Males are very colorful with red and blue dorsal and caudal fins. Females are smaller and yellowish with a black spot. It is territorial but peaceful outside breeding. It prefers soft, acidic water with dense vegetation. Breeding is typical of Apistogramma: egg laying on hard substrate, maternal care.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 liters for a pair. Soft, acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10, KH 1-5), temperature 24-28°C. Many hiding places (roots, leaves, pots). Varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small pellets. Peaceful but territorial during breeding. Avoid aggressive fish. A species tank is ideal.

##### [Oscar](/encyclopedia/astronotus-ocellatus)
**Astronotus ocellatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Oscar is a large South American cichlid known for its intelligence and personality. It is very popular in aquariums but requires a large tank.
The Oscar has a robust, oval body, with a large mouth and prominent eyes. Adults can reach 35 cm. Wild coloration is olive brown with ocellated spots on the caudal fin, but captive varieties (tiger, red, albino) are common. They are very intelligent fish, capable of recognizing their owner. They are aggressive and territorial, especially towards smaller fish. They are carnivorous and have a voracious appetite. Reproduction is classic: spawning on a flat substrate, parents are very protective.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 35cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 300 L is essential for a single adult Oscar. Ideal temperature is 24 to 28 °C, pH 6.5 to 7.5, and GH 5 to 12 °d. Powerful filtration is needed due to their waste production. They accept carnivore pellets, whole fish, shrimp, and worms. Avoid small fish; tankmates must be large and robust (other large cichlids, catfish). Breeding is possible in the aquarium with a formed pair.

##### [Golden Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-aureum)
**Aulonocara aureum** — Cichlidae · fish
A peacock cichlid with a golden body, highly prized in the hobby for its beauty and relatively mild temperament.
Aulonocara aureum reaches about 13 cm. Males are bright golden yellow with blue reflections on the head and fins. Females are gray-brown. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed. It is a calm fish that spends time sifting through sand. It is territorial but can coexist with other peaceful Malawi species. It forms harems. In the aquarium, it is often kept with other Aulonocara or bottom-dwelling fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-15. A minimum 200-liter tank for a group. Sandy substrate, rocks, and hiding places. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid aggressive Mbunas. Compatible with other Aulonocara, Synodontis, peaceful fish. Regular water changes. Breeding by mouthbrooding; the female holds the eggs for 3 weeks.

##### [Baensch's Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-baenschi)
**Aulonocara baenschi** — Cichlidae · fish
A brightly colored peacock cichlid, appreciated for its peaceful behavior and blue-yellow iridescence.
Baensch's Peacock reaches up to 12 cm. Males display metallic blue with yellow highlights on the dorsal fin. Females are grey-brown. It is a mouthbrooder. In the wild it lives in harems. Its behavior is relatively calm compared to mbunas. It prefers rocky areas with hiding spots. Breeding is easy in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a tank of at least 200 liters for a group. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with other non-aggressive Malawi cichlids. Avoid overly active mbunas. Provide rocks and sandy substrate. Weekly water changes of 20%.

##### [Hans Baensch's Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-hansbaenschi)
**Aulonocara hansbaenschi** — Cichlidae · fish
A peacock with orange and blue colors, very close to Aulonocara baenschi but with distinct shades.
This cichlid reaches 13 cm. Males have a blue head and an orange to reddish body. Females are dull. It is a mouthbrooder and forms harems. It is more territorial than some other peacocks. It lives in shallow rocky areas. Its diet is carnivorous. Breeding is similar to other Aulonocara.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 250 liter tank for a group. Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20, phosphates <0.5. Varied diet: pellets, brine shrimp, krill. Compatible with other Malawi cichlids of similar size. Avoid overly aggressive species. Provide rocks and hiding spots. Regular water changes.

##### [Jacob's Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-jacobfreibergi)
**Aulonocara jacobfreibergi** — Cichlidae · fish
A colorful African cichlid, appreciated for its bright hues and interesting behavior. It is relatively peaceful for a Malawi cichlid.
Aulonocara jacobfreibergi reaches up to 15 cm. Males display spectacular coloration: blue head, yellow-orange body with metallic reflections. Females are gray-brown. It is a bottom-dwelling fish that sifts through sand for food. It is territorial but less aggressive than other Malawi cichlids. It forms harems with one dominant male and several females. In the aquarium, it can coexist with other Aulonocara or peaceful cichlids of similar size.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-15. A minimum 200-liter tank for a group. Sandy substrate, rocks, and hiding places. Carnivorous diet: African cichlid pellets, brine shrimp, krill. Avoid overly aggressive tankmates like Mbunas. Compatible with other Aulonocara, Synodontis, or peaceful Malawi fish. Weekly water changes of 20-30%. Breeding is possible in the aquarium; the female mouthbroods the eggs for 3 weeks.

##### [Eureka Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-jacobfreibergi-eureka)
**Aulonocara jacobfreibergi 'Eureka'** — Cichlidae · fish
A remarkable peacock with electric blue coloration and elongated fins, highly prized in aquaristics.
The Eureka Peacock can reach 15 cm. Males are bright blue with metallic reflections, females are grey. It has pointed dorsal and anal fins. It is a mouthbrooder. It is calmer than mbunas but can be territorial towards conspecifics. It prefers clear, well-oxygenated water. Breeding is possible in an aquarium with a harem.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 300 liter tank for a group. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20, phosphates <0.5. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with other peacocks and non-aggressive Malawi cichlids. Avoid overly active fish. Provide rocks and open swimming areas. Weekly water changes of 20%.

##### [Malawi Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-malawi)
**Aulonocara malawi** — Cichlidae · fish
A peacock cichlid with variable colors, often blue and yellow, suitable for Malawi community aquariums.
The Malawi Peacock reaches 12-14 cm. Males show blue coloration with yellow on the dorsal fin. Females are grey-brown. It is a mouthbrooder. It is less territorial than other Aulonocara. It lives in harems in rocky areas. Its diet is carnivorous. It is appreciated for its hardiness and ease of adaptation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 200 liter tank for a group. Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20, phosphates <0.5. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Avoid aggressive mbunas. Provide rocks and sandy substrate. Regular water changes.

##### [Nyassa Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-nyassae)
**Aulonocara nyassae** — Cichlidae · fish
The type species of the genus Aulonocara, with an elongated body and bluish reflections, ideal for biotope aquariums.
The Nyassa Peacock reaches 14 cm. Males are silver-blue with yellow fins. Females are grey. It is a mouthbrooder. It is relatively peaceful but can be territorial during breeding. It lives in harems in rocky areas. Its diet is carnivorous. It is less colorful than other peacocks but very hardy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 14cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 250 liter tank for a group. Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20, phosphates <0.5. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with other Malawi cichlids. Avoid overly aggressive species. Provide rocks and hiding spots. Weekly water changes.

##### [Stuartgranti peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti** — Cichlidae · fish
A colorful African cichlid prized for its bright blue and yellow hues. It is relatively peaceful for a Malawi cichlid.
Aulonocara stuartgranti, commonly known as Stuartgranti peacock, is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. Males display a brilliant coloration combining metallic blue, golden yellow, and sometimes orange-red, while females are duller, gray-brown. This fish reaches a size of 12-15 cm. It inhabits rocky areas where it feeds on small invertebrates and plankton. In the aquarium, it requires hard, alkaline water typical of the African rift lakes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain hard water (GH 10-20, KH 8-12) with a pH of 7.8-8.6 and temperature 24-28°C. A tank of at least 200 liters is recommended with rocks and hiding places. Perform 20-30% weekly water changes. Feed with African cichlid pellets, supplemented with brine shrimp or bloodworms. Avoid overly aggressive tankmates.

##### [Benga Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-benga)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Benga'** — Cichlidae · fish
Bright blue peacock cichlid with yellow dorsal fin. Male very colorful, female dull. Peaceful species.
The Benga Peacock is a variety of Aulonocara stuartgranti characterized by intense blue on the body and a bright yellow dorsal fin. Males may have orange highlights on the face. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. Adult size 12 cm. It is a calm cichlid, suitable for Malawi community aquariums. It feeds on small invertebrates and prepared foods. Reproduction is mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 liters, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12, temperature 24-28°C. Rocky decor with sand. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Feed pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Weekly water changes 20-30%. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Breeding possible in species tank.

##### [Chilumba Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-chilumba)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Chilumba'** — Cichlidae · fish
Blue and yellow peacock cichlid, male very colorful. Chilumba variant. Peaceful species.
The Chilumba Peacock is a variety of Aulonocara stuartgranti from the Chilumba area. Adult males have a metallic blue body with a bright yellow dorsal fin and orange highlights. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. Adult size 12 cm. It is a calm cichlid, ideal for a Malawi community tank. It feeds on small invertebrates and prepared foods. Reproduction is mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 liters, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12, temperature 24-28°C. Rocky decor with sand. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Feed pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Weekly water changes 20-30%. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Breeding possible in species tank.

##### [Chitande Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-chitande)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Chitande'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Chitande Peacock is a blue cichlid with a yellow-orange dorsal fin and a yellow edge on the anal fin. It is appreciated for its elegance.
Males are blue with a yellow-orange dorsal fin and a blue anal fin edged in yellow. Females are gray. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It lives in clear, rocky waters. Males are territorial but peaceful towards other species. The blue color is more intense in dominant males. It grows up to 13 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Identical parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Minimum 200L tank. Carnivorous diet. Compatible with other peacocks and haps. Keep a harem. Weekly water changes. Breeding is easy. Fry grow quickly with appropriate feeding.

##### [Makonde Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-makonde)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Makonde'** — Cichlidae · fish
Blue and yellow peacock cichlid, male very colorful. Makonde variant. Peaceful species.
The Makonde Peacock is a variety of Aulonocara stuartgranti from the Makonde area. Adult males have a metallic blue body with a bright yellow dorsal fin and orange highlights. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. Adult size 12 cm. It is a calm cichlid, ideal for a Malawi community tank. It feeds on small invertebrates and prepared foods. Reproduction is mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 liters, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12, temperature 24-28°C. Rocky decor with sand. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Feed pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Weekly water changes 20-30%. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Breeding possible in species tank.

##### [Maleri Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-maleri)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Maleri'** — Cichlidae · fish
Vibrant peacock cichlid, male blue and yellow. Peaceful and popular in the hobby.
The Maleri Peacock is a geographical variant of Aulonocara stuartgranti. Adult males display a bright electric blue body with a vivid yellow dorsal fin and orange highlights on the face. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. This species reaches about 12 cm. It is relatively peaceful compared to mbunas, but males can be territorial during breeding. Its diet is mainly carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates in the wild. In aquaria, it accepts pellets and frozen foods. Breeding is possible in a species tank, with the female mouthbrooding the eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 200 liters with pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Ideal temperature 24-28°C. A rocky setup with hiding places and a sand substrate is recommended. Peaceful species, compatible with other non-aggressive Malawi cichlids. Avoid overly active or very small tankmates. Feed with quality pellets, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Perform weekly water changes of 20-30%. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L, phosphates 0.5 mg/L. Breeding is possible in a species tank with one male and several females.

##### [Maulana Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-maulana)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Maulana'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Maulana Peacock is a stunning cichlid from Lake Malawi, known for its vibrant blue and yellow coloration. It is a popular choice for aquarists due to its relatively peaceful nature.
Males display a brilliant blue body with a yellow-orange dorsal and anal fin, while females are dull brown. This species is a maternal mouthbrooder. It prefers rocky habitats where it feeds on small invertebrates. Males are territorial but less aggressive than mbunas. Coloration intensifies during courtship. In aquariums, they can reach up to 15 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. A minimum tank size of 200 liters is recommended for a group. They are carnivorous: feed high-quality cichlid pellets and frozen foods like brine shrimp. Avoid aggressive mbunas; they do well with other peacocks and haps. Keep females in a harem with one male. Weekly 20% water changes are essential. Breeding is possible in captivity; the female holds eggs in her mouth for about 3 weeks.

##### [Mbenji Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-mbenji)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Mbenji'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Mbenji Peacock is a blue cichlid with a yellow-orange dorsal fin and yellow spots on the anal fin. It is prized for its unique pattern.
Males have a blue body, a yellow-orange dorsal fin, and a blue anal fin with yellow spots. Females are brownish. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It inhabits rocky and sandy areas. Males are moderately territorial. Coloration becomes brighter during breeding. It reaches about 14 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 14cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Standard parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Minimum 200L tank. Carnivorous diet. Compatible with other peacocks and haps. Keep a harem. Regular water changes. Breeding similar to other Aulonocara. Fry are easy to raise with fine foods.

##### [Mbenji Island Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-mbenji-island)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Mbenji Island'** — Cichlidae · fish
A colorful peacock cichlid endemic to Mbenji Island in Lake Malawi. Males display bright blue and yellow hues.
This peacock has an elongated, laterally compressed body typical of Aulonocara. Adult males display a metallic blue head, golden yellow back, and bluish anal fin. Females are gray-brown with silvery reflections. It is relatively peaceful compared to mbunas, but males can be territorial during breeding. It spends time sifting through sand in search of food. It is a maternal mouthbrooder.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 200L tank is recommended for a group. Provide fine sand substrate and rocky hiding places. Diet should be carnivorous: high-quality pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid nitrate buildup (max 20 mg/L). Males are polygamous; a harem of 1 male to 3-4 females is ideal. Avoid overly aggressive or very small tankmates. Regular water changes are essential.

##### [Ngara Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-ngara)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Ngara'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Ngara Peacock is a bright blue cichlid with a yellow-orange dorsal fin. It is highly sought after for its vivid colors and peaceful nature.
Males are predominantly blue with a yellow-orange dorsal fin and a blue anal fin. Females are dull gray-brown. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It lives in rocky areas of Lake Malawi. Males are territorial but not aggressive towards other peaceful species. The blue color intensifies with age and dominance. It grows up to 13 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water conditions identical: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Minimum 200L tank. Carnivorous diet. Compatible with other peacocks and haps. Keep a harem. Weekly water changes. Breeding is easy if parameters are stable. Fry can be fed with baby brine shrimp.

##### [Nkhata Bay Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-nkhata-bay)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Nkhata Bay'** — Cichlidae · fish
Geographic variant of Stuart Grant's peacock, with males displaying a characteristic blue and orange coloration. Endemic to Nkhata Bay.
This peacock is distinguished by its coloration: bright blue head and back, orange to reddish flanks, bluish dorsal and anal fins. Females are gray with silvery reflections. It reaches up to 14 cm. Its behavior is similar to other Aulonocara: it sifts sand and is a mouthbrooder. Males are territorial but less aggressive than mbunas. It prefers clear, well-oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 14cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters identical to other peacocks: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 200L tank is advised. Substrate should be sandy to allow sifting. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Keep a harem of 1 male to 3-4 females. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L. Strong filtration is recommended.

##### [Nkhomo Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-nkhomo)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Nkhomo'** — Cichlidae · fish
Peacock cichlid with blue and orange hues. Male very colorful, female dull. Calm species.
The Nkhomo Peacock is a variant of Aulonocara stuartgranti from Nkhomo Reef. Adult males have a metallic blue body with a broad orange band on the dorsal fin and yellow highlights. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. Adult size about 12 cm. It is a relatively peaceful cichlid, ideal for a Malawi community tank. It feeds on small invertebrates and accepts prepared foods. Reproduction is mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 liters, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12, temperature 24-28°C. Rocky decor with sand. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Feed pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Weekly water changes 20-30%. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Breeding possible in species tank.

##### [Usisya Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-usisya)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Usisya'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Usisya Peacock is a colorful cichlid from Lake Malawi, with a blue head and body and a yellow-orange belly. It is valued for its beauty and peaceful demeanor.
Males have a blue head and body, a yellow-orange belly, and yellow dorsal and anal fins. Females are gray-brown. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It inhabits shallow rocky areas. Males defend a territory but are less aggressive than mbunas. Coloration intensifies during breeding. It reaches about 12 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters identical to other peacocks: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Minimum 200L tank for a group. Carnivorous diet: cichlid pellets and frozen foods. Compatible with other peacocks and haps, avoid aggressive mbunas. Keep a harem (1 male to 3-4 females). Regular water changes. Breeding similar to other Aulonocara.

##### [Cupid Cichlid](/encyclopedia/biotodoma-cupido)
**Biotodoma cupido** — Cichlidae · fish
Small peaceful cichlid with bright colors, ideal for a South American community tank. Gregarious species.
Biotodoma cupido reaches about 10-12 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, with a silvery to golden base color. A broad black vertical bar runs through the eye, and a dark spot marks the caudal peduncle. The fins are often edged with iridescent blue. It is a gregarious fish that lives in groups. It is very peaceful and can coexist with other small cichlids and characins. During breeding, males dig pits in the sand. The species is easy to keep and suitable for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 100 liters for a group of 6. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10, KH 1-5. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, worms. Decor with fine sand, roots, plants, and leaf litter. Moderate filtration. Compatible with tetras, corydoras, other dwarf cichlids. Weekly water changes of 20%. Breeding possible in a specific tank with soft acidic water.

##### [Two-spot cichlid](/encyclopedia/cichlasoma-bimaculatum)
**Cichlasoma bimaculatum** — Cichlidae · fish
Medium-sized, robust and territorial cichlid, recognizable by its two black spots on the flank.
The two-spot cichlid can reach 20 cm. Its body is oval and laterally compressed, gray-green with two distinctive black spots: one on the gill cover and one mid-body. Males are larger and develop a nuchal hump. It is territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding. It lives in pairs and digs the substrate. In the aquarium, it needs hiding places and a large volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires at least 200 liters for a pair. Neutral to slightly acidic water (pH 6-7.5), temperature 24-28°C, GH 5-15. Omnivorous diet: pellets, worms, vegetables. Compatible with other robust cichlids of similar size, but avoid small fish. Sandy substrate and rocks are appreciated. Breeding is easy, parents protect eggs and fry. Keep nitrates below 30 mg/L and phosphates below 1 mg/L.

##### [Maroni Cichlid](/encyclopedia/cleithracara-maronii)
**Cleithracara maronii** — Cichlidae · fish
Dwarf cichlid with a deep body and brownish spotted coloration, peaceful and suitable for community tanks.
Cleithracara maronii reaches 8 to 10 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, beige to light brown, with irregular black spots on the flanks and a dark spot on the operculum. The fins are transparent with light spots. It is a shy and peaceful fish that lives in pairs or small groups. It prefers acidic, soft water with dense vegetation and hiding places. Breeding occurs on a hard substrate (stone, root) and the parents guard the eggs and fry. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80-liter aquarium is recommended for a pair. Water should be acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and soft (GH 2-6), with a temperature of 24-27°C. Gentle filtration and moderate lighting are suitable. Diet is omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid aggressive fish; peaceful tetras, corydoras, and small loricariids are good tankmates. Provide hiding places with roots, stones, and plants. Regular water changes (20% per week) are important. Breeding is possible in a community tank if conditions are stable.

##### [Lenticulate Pike Cichlid](/encyclopedia/crenicichla-lenticulata)
**Crenicichla lenticulata** — Cichlidae · fish
Large predatory cichlid with an elongated body and ocellated patterns. Territorial species requiring a large tank.
Crenicichla lenticulata is a medium to large cichlid, reaching 25 cm. Its body is elongated, typical of pike cichlids, with a brown-green base color and rows of light spots. The dorsal and caudal fins are adorned with ocellated patterns. It is an ambush predator that hunts by stealth. In the aquarium, it is very territorial, especially towards conspecifics. It is best kept alone or as a pair in a species-specific tank. Its active behavior and need for hiding places make it a fascinating fish for experienced aquarists.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 300 liters for one specimen, 500 liters for a pair. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10, KH 1-5. Carnivorous diet: fish, shrimp, worms, cichlid pellets. Decor should include rocks, roots, and sturdy plants. Powerful filtration required. Only compatible with similarly sized robust fish. Weekly water changes of 30%. Beware of jumping, cover the tank.

##### [Frontosa cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyphotilapia-frontosa)
**Cyphotilapia frontosa** — Cichlidae · fish
An impressive large cichlid with a prominent forehead hump in males. It is prized for its majestic appearance and calm demeanor.
Cyphotilapia frontosa, or frontosa, is an iconic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. Males develop a characteristic forehead hump with age and display vertical dark blue and white stripes. Females are smaller and less marked. It can reach 30 cm. In the wild, it lives in groups in deep areas (20-50 m) and feeds on small fish and invertebrates. In the aquarium, it requires a large volume and very alkaline water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Very hard alkaline water (pH 8.0-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-15) at 24-27°C. A minimum 400-liter tank is required, with rocks and open spaces. Perform 30% weekly water changes. Feed with carnivore cichlid pellets, shrimp, and whole fish. Avoid very small tankmates. Keep a group of one male with several females.

##### [Colored cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-coloratus)
**Cyprichromis coloratus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Colored cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, notable for its bright colors and elongated dorsal fin.
This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body. Males display bright colors ranging from blue to yellow with complex patterns. Females are duller. It lives in schools in open water and feeds on zooplankton. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It was described recently (2014) and is still rare in the hobby. Its dorsal fin is particularly long in males.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 11cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep a group of at least 6 in a minimum 200L tank. Hard and alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Temperature 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods (brine shrimp, plankton). Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate flow is beneficial. Regular water changes. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids.

##### [Slender cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-leptosoma)
**Cyprichromis leptosoma** — Cichlidae · fish
Schooling pelagic cichlid with a slender body and colorful fins.
Cyprichromis leptosoma reaches 12 cm. It has an elongated and laterally compressed body, adapted for open water swimming. Males are more colorful than females, with elongated dorsal and anal fins often blue or yellow. It is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female holds eggs in her mouth. It lives in schools of several individuals and is very peaceful. Its schooling behavior is spectacular. It feeds on plankton in the wild.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. A large tank of at least 200 liters is needed for a school of 8-10 individuals. Diet should be varied: brine shrimp, daphnia, small floating pellets. They are very peaceful and compatible with other non-aggressive Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid overly slow or territorial fish. Moderate filtration with good water flow is appreciated. Regular water changes are important. Nitrates should remain low.

##### [Small-scaled cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-microlepidotus)
**Cyprichromis microlepidotus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Small-scaled cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, recognizable by its very fine scales and slender body.
This fish has a very elongated and compressed body, with tiny scales giving it a smooth appearance. Males are metallic blue with yellow reflections, females are silvery. It lives in schools in open water and feeds on zooplankton. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. Less common in the hobby than other Cyprichromis. Its dorsal fin is long and low.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 in a minimum 200L tank. Hard and alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Temperature 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods (brine shrimp, plankton). Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate flow is appreciated. Regular water changes. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids.

##### [Peacock cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-pavo)
**Cyprichromis pavo** — Cichlidae · fish
The Peacock cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, known for its bright colors and schooling behavior.
This fish has an elongated and laterally compressed body, typical of pelagic species. Males display iridescent blue, green, and yellow hues, while females are duller. It lives in schools in open water, feeding on zooplankton. Its dorsal fin is long and often spotted. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. Very active, it requires ample swimming space.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 individuals in a minimum 200L tank. Water must be hard and alkaline (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Ideal temperature is 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods like brine shrimp, plankton, and quality flakes. Avoid aggressive tankmates; prefer peaceful Tanganyikan fish. Moderate water flow is appreciated. Regular water changes are essential. Keep nitrates below 20 mg/L.

##### [Zoned cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-zonatus)
**Cyprichromis zonatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Zoned cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, characterized by vertical bands on its flanks.
This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body with dark vertical bands on a blue-silver background. Males are more colorful than females, with yellow and blue reflections. It lives in schools in open water and feeds on zooplankton. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. Less known in the hobby than Cyprichromis pavo but equally interesting. Its dorsal fin is long and pointed.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 11cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 in a minimum 200L tank. Water must be hard and alkaline (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Temperature 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods (brine shrimp, plankton). Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate flow is beneficial. Regular water changes are important. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids.

##### [Filamentous Cichlid](/encyclopedia/dicrossus-filamentosus)
**Dicrossus filamentosus** — Cichlidae · fish
Dwarf cichlid with filamentous fins, living in groups in the acidic blackwaters of the Amazon.
Dicrossus filamentosus reaches 5 to 6 cm. Its body is elongated and slender, light brown to grayish, with a series of light spots along the lateral line. The dorsal and caudal fins are extended by long filaments, especially in males. It is a shy and peaceful fish that lives in a hierarchical group. It requires very acidic (pH 4-6) and very soft water (GH < 4). In the aquarium, it spawns on leaves or stones, with parental care. It is sensitive to nitrates and parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 4-6, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium is needed for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Water must be very acidic (pH 4.0-6.0) and very soft (GH 1-4), with a temperature of 25-28°C. Use gentle filtration (sponge) and subdued lighting. Diet is carnivorous: micro-worms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and small pellets. Avoid active fish; dwarf tetras (Paracheirodon) or small catfish are compatible. Provide hiding places with roots, catappa leaves, and floating plants. Water changes should be done with RO water. Breeding is possible in a specific tank with very low pH.

##### [Geophagus](/encyclopedia/geophagus-surinamensis)
**Geophagus surinamensis** — Cichlidae · fish
The geophagus is a substrate-sifting cichlid that sifts sand for food. It is appreciated for its interesting behavior and subtle colors.
Geophagus surinamensis has an elongated, laterally compressed body with a pointed head. Adults reach about 15 cm. Coloration is silvery to golden with bluish highlights and a black spot on the operculum. Fins are often edged in red or blue. They are peaceful fish that live in small groups. They spend their time sifting sand for food. Reproduction is on substrate, with parents guarding eggs and fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
A tank of at least 150 L is needed, with a fine sand substrate to allow sifting. Ideal temperature is 24 to 28 °C, pH 6.5 to 7.5, and GH 5 to 12 °d. Efficient filtration is important as they stir up the substrate. They are omnivorous: pellets, flakes, frozen foods, and live food. Compatible tankmates: tetras, corydoras, other peaceful cichlids. Avoid aggressive bottom-dwellers. Breeding is possible with a formed pair.

##### [Borleyi](/encyclopedia/haplochromis-borleyi)
**Haplochromis borleyi** — Cichlidae · fish
Haplochromis borleyi is a peaceful cichlid from Lake Malawi, known for its striking red fins and blue body. It is a popular aquarium fish due to its vibrant colors and relatively easy care.
Haplochromis borleyi exhibits a slender, elongated body with a blueish-silver base color. Males develop intense red coloration on the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, while females are more subdued. They are open-water swimmers, often found in intermediate zones of the lake. This species is a maternal mouthbrooder, with females carrying eggs and fry in their mouths. They are generally peaceful but can be territorial during breeding. Their diet consists of small invertebrates and algae. They are known for their active swimming behavior and add movement to the aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Haplochromis borleyi requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of open swimming space. Water parameters should be maintained at pH 7.5-8.5, temperature 24-28°C, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. They are omnivorous and accept high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Regular water changes are essential to keep nitrate levels below 20 ppm. They can be kept with other peaceful Malawi cichlids of similar size. Avoid aggressive species. Provide rockwork and hiding places but leave open areas. They are sensitive to poor water quality. A sandy substrate is recommended.

##### [Obliquidens cichlid](/encyclopedia/haplochromis-obliquidens)
**Haplochromis obliquidens** — Cichlidae · fish
Haplochromis obliquidens is a haplochromine cichlid from Lake Victoria, with an elongated body and bright colors in males. It is a relatively peaceful African cichlid.
This fish has a streamlined body and a terminal mouth. Adult males display a metallic blue coloration with red or orange highlights on the fins, while females are silvery with dark vertical bars. It reaches about 15 cm. It is an active fish that swims in open water and feeds on invertebrates and plankton. In the aquarium, it is gregarious and can be kept in groups. It is less aggressive than mbunas, but males can become territorial during breeding. It is sensitive to water quality and requires stable parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–26°C, pH 7.0–8.0, GH 8–15, KH 6–10. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is recommended for a group. The aquarium should have open swimming areas and hiding spots with rocks and plants. Substrate can be sand. Diet is omnivorous: quality pellets, artemia, daphnia, and blanched vegetables. Avoid excess protein. This species cohabits well with other Lake Victoria cichlids or peaceful fish of similar size. Weekly water changes of 20% are recommended. Filtration should be efficient with moderate current.

##### [Severum](/encyclopedia/heros-severus)
**Heros severus** — Cichlidae · fish
The severum is a robust and colorful cichlid, often called 'false discus' due to its rounded shape. It is easier to keep than the discus.
The severum has an oval, laterally compressed body, with a long dorsal fin and rounded anal fin. Adults reach up to 20 cm. Base coloration is olive green to brown, with dark spots and golden highlights. Golden and albino varieties exist. They are peaceful but territorial towards conspecifics. They are omnivorous and accept a wide variety of foods. Reproduction is classic: spawning on a flat substrate, parents guard eggs and fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
A tank of at least 150 L is recommended for a pair. Ideal temperature is 24 to 28 °C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, and GH 5 to 12 °d. Moderate filtration and weekly 20% water changes are sufficient. They accept flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and vegetables. Compatible tankmates: tetras, corydoras, other peaceful cichlids of similar size. Avoid very small or aggressive fish. Breeding is easy if a suitable substrate (flat rock, pot) is provided.

##### [Contradens Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-contradens)
**Hypancistrus contradens** — Loricariidae · fish
Hypancistrus contradens is an armored catfish with a reticulated pattern, robust and adaptable, popular in community aquariums.
This fish measures 10-14 cm. Its body is elongated and moderately flattened. Coloration is light brown to grayish with a network of dark lines forming a reticulated or marbled pattern. The fins are often edged in white. Males have more developed odontodes on the opercles and the first rays of the pectoral fins. It is a nocturnal species but can be seen during the day if it feels secure. It is territorial but tolerates other bottom-dwellers. Breeding in aquariums is possible with caves.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter tank is sufficient for one specimen. Water parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 4-12°dGH, KH 2-6°dKH. A decor with rocks, roots, and caves is essential. Filtration should be good with moderate flow. Omnivorous: accepts tablets, worms, brine shrimp, and vegetables. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive cichlids. Weekly water changes of 20-30%.

##### [Inspector Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-inspector)
**Hypancistrus inspector** — Loricariidae · fish
Hypancistrus inspector is an armored catfish with a spotted pattern, native to the blackwaters of the Rio Negro, still little known in the aquarium hobby.
This fish reaches about 10-12 cm. Its body is robust, with a broad head and a sucker mouth. The base color is light brown to beige, covered with irregular dark spots sometimes forming marbling. The fins are also spotted. Males have longer odontodes on the opercles. It is a nocturnal and shy species, enjoying hiding places. It is relatively peaceful but may defend its territory. Breeding in aquariums is rarely documented.
Parameters: Temperature 25-29°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: DD
A minimum 120-liter tank is recommended. Water should be acidic and soft: pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-8°dGH, KH 1-4°dKH, temperature 25-29°C. A decor with roots, catappa leaves, and caves is ideal. Filtration should be efficient but with moderate flow. It is omnivorous with a carnivorous tendency: will accept tablets, worms, brine shrimp, and vegetables. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid overly active species. Regular water changes (20% weekly) with RO water preferred.

##### [L174 Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-sp-l174)
**Hypancistrus sp. L174** — Loricariidae · fish
Small zebra-patterned pleco, highly prized in aquaristics. Nocturnal and peaceful species.
Hypancistrus sp. L174 reaches 8-10 cm. Its body is ventrally flattened, with a sucker mouth. The coloration is white to cream with irregular vertical black stripes, reminiscent of a zebra. The fins are broad and patterned. It is a nocturnal fish that spends the day hidden in crevices. It is very peaceful and can coexist with similarly sized fish. It feeds mainly on invertebrates and plant matter. In the aquarium, it appreciates hiding places and moderate current. Breeding is difficult in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Minimum tank size 100 liters for one specimen, 200 liters for a group. Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10, KH 1-5. Omnivorous diet with carnivorous tendency: sinking pellets, brine shrimp, worms, vegetables. Decor with rocks, caves, roots, plants. Powerful filtration with moderate current. Compatible with tetras, corydoras, other Loricariidae. Weekly water changes of 30%. Keep parameters stable. Breeding rare, requires specific conditions.

##### [Queen Arabesque Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-sp-l260)
**Hypancistrus sp. L260** — Loricariidae · fish
A small pleco with an elegant pattern of light lines on a dark background, highly prized in the aquarium hobby.
Hypancistrus L260 has an elongated body and a dark brown to black coloration with white or cream wavy lines. Its eyes are large and its belly is lighter. It is a nocturnal species that spends the day hidden in crevices. It is territorial but peaceful with other fish. Its caudal fin is slightly forked. It can reach 12 cm. It is often confused with L046 but its patterns are finer.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-8. A minimum 100-liter aquarium is recommended. Diet should include bottom-dwelling tablets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber) and frozen foods like brine shrimp. Moderate water flow is appreciated. Hiding places (rocks, roots, PVC pipes) are essential. It is compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species. Clean, well-oxygenated water is crucial.

##### [Zebra Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-zebra)
**Hypancistrus zebra** — Loricariidae · fish
The zebra pleco is an iconic armored catfish with a black and white striped pattern, threatened in the wild and highly sought after in the aquarium trade.
This small fish (8-10 cm) has an elongated, laterally compressed body with a sucker mouth. Its coloration is unique: vertical black and white bands over the entire body and fins. Males have more developed odontodes (small spines) on the opercles and pectoral fins. It is nocturnal and shy, requiring many hiding places. It is territorial with conspecifics but can coexist with other peaceful species. Breeding in aquariums is difficult and rare.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: EN
A minimum 80-liter tank is needed for a pair, with strong current and highly oxygenated water. The decor should include smooth rocks, caves, and driftwood. Parameters must be stable: temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 2-10°dGH, KH 1-5°dKH. It is sensitive to nitrates (max 10 mg/L) and phosphates (max 0.2 mg/L). Its diet is carnivorous: bloodworms, brine shrimp, protein-based tablets. Do not keep with aggressive or overly large fish. Frequent water changes (30% weekly) are essential.

##### [Dickfeld's Julie](/encyclopedia/julidochromis-dickfeldi)
**Julidochromis dickfeldi** — Cichlidae · fish
Julidochromis dickfeldi is a small cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, appreciated for its geometric patterns and interesting behavior. It is relatively easy to keep in a species-specific aquarium.
This fish has an elongated, cylindrical body with a cream or pale yellow base color crossed by three longitudinal black stripes. The dorsal fin is edged with blue and red. The eyes are large and expressive. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It is a monogamous species that forms stable pairs. It is territorial but less aggressive than Tropheus. It feeds on small benthic invertebrates. Spawning occurs in caves or crevices, and parents guard the eggs and fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature between 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5, GH 8–15, and KH 6–10. A minimum tank of 100 liters is suitable for a pair or small group. Diet should be carnivorous: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, carnivore cichlid pellets. Regular water changes of 20% per week are recommended. Filtration should be efficient but without too strong a current. Decor should include stacked rocks forming caves. Compatible with other Julidochromis or peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish.

##### [Marlier's Julie](/encyclopedia/julidochromis-marlieri)
**Julidochromis marlieri** — Cichlidae · fish
Julidochromis marlieri is an elongated cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, recognizable by its horizontal stripes and pair-bonding behavior. It is popular in the hobby for its hardiness.
This fish reaches up to 12 cm and has a fusiform body. Its base color is beige to light yellow, with four longitudinal brown or black stripes. The fins are often tinted with blue. Males are larger and have more developed fins. It is a monogamous species that defends a territory around a cave. It feeds on small crustaceans and insects. Spawning occurs in a cavity, and both parents care for the eggs and fry. In aquariums, it can coexist with other similarly sized species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5, GH 8–15, KH 6–10. A minimum tank of 120 liters is recommended for a pair. Carnivorous diet includes brine shrimp, bloodworms, and pellets. Weekly water changes of 20% are sufficient. Filtration should be moderate. Rocky decor with caves is essential. Compatible with other Julidochromis or peaceful cichlids. Avoid very aggressive fish. Breeding is easy in aquariums if conditions are stable.

##### [Ornate Julie](/encyclopedia/julidochromis-ornatus)
**Julidochromis ornatus** — Cichlidae · fish
Julidochromis ornatus is a small cichlid with an elegant pattern, highly appreciated for its beauty and peaceful behavior. It is ideal for community Tanganyikan cichlid aquariums.
This fish reaches 10 cm and has an elongated body. Its base color is golden yellow with three longitudinal black stripes, the middle stripe being the widest. The fins are adorned with blue spots and red borders. Males are larger and more colorful. It is a monogamous species that forms lasting pairs. It is less territorial than other Julidochromis. It feeds on small invertebrates and algae. Reproduction occurs in crevices, with parents protecting the eggs. In aquariums, it is compatible with other peaceful species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5, GH 8–15, KH 6–10. A minimum tank of 100 liters for a pair. Carnivorous diet with vegetable supplement. Weekly water changes of 20%. Moderate filtration. Rocky decor with caves. Compatible with other Julidochromis, Neolamprologus, or peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species. Breeding is easy in aquariums.

##### [Regan's Julie](/encyclopedia/julidochromis-regani)
**Julidochromis regani** — Cichlidae · fish
Julidochromis regani is an elongated cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, characterized by its vertical stripes and pair-bonding behavior. It is hardy and suited for hard water aquariums.
This fish can reach 12 cm and has a cylindrical body. Its base color is beige to light gray, with 5 to 7 dark vertical bars. The fins are often bluish with red spots. Males are larger and have longer fins. It is a monogamous species that defends a territory around a cave. It feeds on small invertebrates and plankton. Spawning occurs in a cavity, with parents guarding the eggs. In aquariums, it can be kept as a pair or in a small group.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5, GH 8–15, KH 6–10. A minimum tank of 120 liters for a pair. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, pellets. Weekly water changes of 20%. Moderate filtration. Rocky decor with caves. Compatible with other Julidochromis or peaceful cichlids. Avoid overly aggressive fish. Breeding is possible in aquariums with stable conditions.

##### [Masked Julie](/encyclopedia/julidochromis-transcriptus)
**Julidochromis transcriptus** — Cichlidae · fish
Julidochromis transcriptus is a small striped cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, valued for its interesting behavior and subtle colors. It lives in pairs or small groups in rocky areas.
This cichlid reaches up to 7 cm and has an elongated body with vertical black and white bands. The fins are often edged with blue. It has a slightly inferior mouth adapted for foraging in crevices. Its behavior is territorial but less aggressive than other Tanganyika cichlids. It forms monogamous pairs and defends a small rocky area. Breeding occurs in caves with intense parental care. Juveniles are tolerated to some extent.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, and KH 8-12. A minimum 80-liter tank is recommended for a pair. Feed a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Avoid overly active or large tankmates; choose other Tanganyika cichlids of similar size. Provide plenty of hiding places with rocks and caves. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are essential. Keep nitrates below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.5 mg/L.

##### [Fuelleborn's Cichlid](/encyclopedia/labeotropheus-fuelleborni)
**Labeotropheus fuelleborni** — Cichlidae · fish
Labeotropheus fuelleborni is a Mbuna with a stocky body and a beak-like mouth adapted for grazing algae. It is known for its hardiness and lively behavior.
Labeotropheus fuelleborni is characterized by a subterminal beak-like mouth adapted for grazing algae on rocks. Its body is stocky and laterally compressed. Males are bright blue with dark vertical bars, while females are brownish-yellow with variable patterns. It reaches 12–15 cm. It is a very active and territorial fish, often aggressive towards other Mbuna. In the wild, it lives in wave-swept rocky areas of Lake Malawi, feeding on algae. In the aquarium, it requires strong water flow and well-oxygenated water. Reproduction is maternal mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 250-liter tank is recommended for a group of 3–5 individuals. Feed a primarily herbivorous diet of algae, spirulina, and vegetables. Strong water flow is appreciated, mimicking wave zones. It is aggressive and should be kept with robust, similarly sized species. Provide stable rockwork with hiding places. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are necessary. Powerful filtration and good oxygenation are essential.

##### [Trewavas' mbuna](/encyclopedia/labeotropheus-trewavasae)
**Labeotropheus trewavasae** — Cichlidae · fish
Labeotropheus trewavasae is a colorful and territorial mbuna cichlid, prized for its blue and yellow patterns. It requires a rocky aquarium with plenty of hiding spots.
This cichlid has an elongated body and a downward-pointing mouth, adapted for grazing algae on rocks. Adult males display a metallic blue coloration with yellow or orange fins, while females are duller, often beige with dark bars. It can reach 12 cm. It is a highly territorial species, especially males, who vigorously defend their area. In an aquarium, it is best to keep one male with several females to dilute aggression. It sometimes digs in the substrate to create nests. Its constant grazing behavior makes it an excellent algae cleaner.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, and GH 10–20. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is recommended for a group. The aquarium should be decorated with plenty of rocks forming caves and open swimming areas. Substrate can be fine sand. Diet should be primarily vegetable-based (spirulina, blanched vegetables) supplemented with protein. Avoid high-protein animal foods that can cause digestive issues. This species is aggressive towards conspecifics and similarly shaped fish; choose robust tankmates like other mbunas or bottom-dwellers. Weekly water changes of 20–30% are necessary. Filtration should be strong to maintain clean, oxygenated water.

##### [Yellow lab cichlid](/encyclopedia/labidochromis-caeruleus)
**Labidochromis caeruleus** — Cichlidae · fish
A small bright yellow cichlid, very popular in the hobby for its color and peaceful temperament. It is a mouthbrooder.
Labidochromis caeruleus, also known as the yellow lab cichlid, is a dwarf cichlid from Lake Malawi. Its bright lemon-yellow color, sometimes with blue highlights on the fins, makes it a favorite. Males are slightly larger and more colorful than females. It reaches 8-10 cm. In the wild, it feeds on benthic invertebrates. In the aquarium, it is hardy and adapts well to typical Malawi conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Hard alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20, KH 8-12) at 24-28°C. A minimum 100-liter tank with rocks and sand. Perform 20% weekly water changes. Feed with cichlid pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. It is a peaceful fish that can coexist with other non-aggressive Mbunas or Haplochromis.

##### [Araguaia Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-araguaiae)
**Laetacara araguaiae** — Cichlidae · fish
A peaceful dwarf cichlid, ideal for freshwater community tanks. It stands out for its bright colors and moderate territorial behavior.
Laetacara araguaiae reaches about 7 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a brown-yellow base color and blue/green iridescence on the flanks. The fins are often edged in red or orange. Males are larger and more colorful than females. It is a territorial but generally peaceful fish towards other similarly sized species. It sometimes digs in the substrate to mark its territory. During breeding, it becomes more aggressive and defends its eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep temperature at 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, and GH 2-10. A minimum 60-liter tank is recommended for a pair. Provide sandy substrate, driftwood, and floating plants to create shaded areas. Feed a varied diet: quality pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates; prefer tetras, corydoras, or other peaceful dwarf cichlids. Perform regular water changes (20% weekly). Breeding is possible in the aquarium with stable parameters and soft water.

##### [Curved-head Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-curviceps)
**Laetacara curviceps** — Cichlidae · fish
The Curved-head Dwarf Cichlid is a small peaceful dwarf cichlid, ideal for planted community aquariums. It is appreciated for its elegant shape and subtle colors.
Laetacara curviceps grows up to 7 cm. It has an elongated body with a slightly curved head. Coloration is variable, often beige with bluish reflections and a horizontal black stripe. Males are larger and more colorful. It is a very peaceful fish, even during breeding. It lives in pairs or small groups. It breeds on flat substrate, parents are good guardians.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 2-10. Minimum tank 60 liters. Omnivorous diet: small pellets, flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with most peaceful fish (tetras, rasboras, corydoras). Avoid aggressive or large fish. Provide plants and hiding spots. Good water quality, regular changes. Easy breeding in pairs.

##### [Red-backed acara](/encyclopedia/laetacara-dorsigera)
**Laetacara dorsigera** — Cichlidae · fish
Small peaceful cichlid with reddish back, ideal for planted community aquariums.
The red-backed acara reaches up to 10 cm. Its body is elongated, silvery with an orange-red tint on the back and dorsal fin. A black stripe crosses the eye. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish, living in pairs or small groups. It is not territorial outside breeding. In the aquarium, it enjoys plants and hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 80 liters for a pair. Soft (GH 2-10) and acidic (pH 6-7) water, temperature 24-28°C. Omnivorous diet: small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with tetras, rasboras, corydoras and other small peaceful fish. A planted tank with roots and dark substrate is ideal. Breeding is easy, parents lay eggs on a hard surface. Keep nitrates below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.5 mg/L.

##### [Flame Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-flammea)
**Laetacara flammea** — Cichlidae · fish
A very colorful dwarf cichlid, appreciated for its flaming hues. It is relatively peaceful but can be territorial during breeding.
Laetacara flammea reaches about 6 cm. Its body is stocky with a bright orange-red coloration on the flanks, hence its name. The fins are often marked with black and blue. Males are larger and more colorful than females. It is an active fish that explores its environment. It forms monogamous pairs and defends a territory around its spawn. In the aquarium, it is generally peaceful with other similarly sized species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10. A minimum 50-liter tank for a pair. Decorate with driftwood, plants, and leaf litter to mimic its natural habitat. Varied diet: small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Avoid overly active fish. Compatible with tetras, corydoras, and other dwarf cichlids. Weekly water changes of 20%. Breeding is easy with stable parameters; the female lays eggs on a hard surface and the male fertilizes.

##### [Yellow-spotted Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-fulvopunctata)
**Laetacara fulvopunctata** — Cichlidae · fish
A discreet but elegant dwarf cichlid, recognizable by its yellow spots on the flanks. It is peaceful and suitable for community tanks.
Laetacara fulvopunctata reaches about 7 cm. Its body is elongated with a gray-brown base color and a series of yellow spots aligned horizontally on the flanks. The fins are transparent with bluish reflections. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It is a calm fish that spends much time sifting through the substrate for food. It forms monogamous pairs and spawns on hard surfaces. In the aquarium, it cohabits well with other peaceful species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10. A minimum 60-liter tank for a pair. Provide sandy substrate, driftwood, and plants. Varied diet: small pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with tetras, corydoras, and other dwarf cichlids. Avoid aggressive fish. Regular water changes. Breeding is possible with stable parameters; the female lays eggs on a stone or leaf.

##### [Thayer's Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-thayeri)
**Laetacara thayeri** — Cichlidae · fish
Thayer's Dwarf Cichlid is an uncommon dwarf cichlid from the blackwaters of the Rio Negro. It is appreciated for its discreet coloration and peaceful behavior.
Laetacara thayeri grows up to 6 cm. It has an elongated body with a brownish to golden coloration, sometimes with green reflections. Males are slightly larger. It is a shy and peaceful fish, preferring dimly lit aquariums with acidic water. It breeds by laying eggs on substrate, parents guard eggs. It is sensitive to water parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-5, KH 0-3. Minimum tank 60 liters. Carnivorous diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms. Compatible with other blackwater fish (tetras, small cichlids). Avoid active fish. Provide hiding spots (roots, oak leaves). Very soft and acidic water. Frequent water changes with RO water. Breeding possible in pairs.

##### [Cobalt Blue Zebra](/encyclopedia/maylandia-callainos)
**Maylandia callainos** — Cichlidae · fish
Maylandia callainos is a Mbuna cichlid with a vibrant cobalt blue body. It is popular in the aquarium hobby for its intense coloration and active behavior.
Maylandia callainos, also known as the Cobalt Blue Zebra, has an elongated and laterally compressed body typical of Mbuna. Its coloration is a uniform cobalt blue in dominant males, while females and juveniles are duller, sometimes with vertical bars. Males develop egg spots on the anal fin. It is a territorial and aggressive fish, especially towards conspecifics. It lives in groups in the rocky zones of Lake Malawi. Its diet is primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and biofilm. In the aquarium, it requires plenty of hiding places and sufficient space to reduce conflicts.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, and GH 10–20. The water should be well-filtered and oxygen-rich. A minimum tank size of 200 liters is recommended for a group of 3–5 individuals. Feed a diet based on spirulina and vegetables, supplemented with herbivorous cichlid pellets. Avoid high-protein animal foods that can cause digestive issues. Maylandia callainos are aggressive and should not be mixed with peaceful or small fish. Provide plenty of rocks to create territories and hiding spots. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are essential to maintain good water quality.

##### [Red Zebra Cichlid](/encyclopedia/maylandia-estherae)
**Maylandia estherae** — Cichlidae · fish
Maylandia estherae, the Red Zebra, is a highly colorful Mbuna with blue males and bright orange females. It is prized for its striking sexual dimorphism.
Maylandia estherae exhibits spectacular sexual dimorphism: males are sky blue with darker vertical bars, while females are bright orange to red. Both sexes have egg spots on the anal fin. It is a robust and active fish, typical of Mbuna. It is territorial and can be aggressive, especially during breeding. In the wild, it inhabits shallow rocky areas of Lake Malawi. Its diet is primarily herbivorous but accepts occasional prey. In the aquarium, it needs plenty of hiding places and sufficient space to establish a stable hierarchy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended for a group of 3–5 fish. Feed a diet rich in spirulina and vegetables, with herbivore pellets. Avoid excessive meaty foods. Males are very territorial; provide a spacious tank with plenty of rocks. Cohabitation with other robust Mbuna is possible if space is adequate. Weekly 20% water changes are recommended. Strong filtration is necessary to keep the water clean.

##### [Kennyi Cichlid](/encyclopedia/maylandia-lombardoi)
**Maylandia lombardoi** — Cichlidae · fish
Maylandia lombardoi, also known as the Kennyi, is a bright yellow Mbuna with dark vertical bars. It is known for its aggression and territoriality.
Maylandia lombardoi is distinguished by its bright yellow coloration in dominant males, with black or dark blue vertical bars. Females and juveniles are duller, often grayish-yellow. Males reach 12–15 cm, making it one of the largest Mbuna. It is extremely territorial and aggressive, even towards similarly sized species. In the wild, it inhabits rocky areas of Lake Malawi, feeding on algae and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, it requires a large volume and plenty of hiding places to limit conflicts. Reproduction is maternal mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 300-liter tank is recommended for a group of 3–5 individuals due to its size and aggression. Feed a herbivorous diet with spirulina-based pellets and blanched vegetables. Avoid high-protein foods. It is best kept in a species-only tank or with other robust, similarly sized Mbuna. Provide dense rockwork with retreat areas. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are essential. Strong filtration is required.

##### [Mbenji Cichlid](/encyclopedia/maylandia-mbenjii)
**Maylandia mbenjii** — Cichlidae · fish
Maylandia mbenjii is a Mbuna endemic to Mbenji Island, with a metallic blue body and yellow highlights. It is less common in the hobby but highly valued by collectors.
Maylandia mbenjii has an elongated body and a brilliant metallic blue coloration, with yellow hues on the head and fins in dominant males. Females are duller, often grayish-blue. It reaches 10–12 cm. It is territorial but slightly less aggressive than other Mbuna. In the wild, it lives exclusively around Mbenji Island in clear, rocky waters. Its diet is herbivorous, feeding on periphyton algae. In the aquarium, it requires conditions similar to other Mbuna, with adequate volume and hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended for a group of 3–5 fish. Feed a herbivorous diet of spirulina and vegetables. It can coexist with other Mbuna of similar size and temperament, but avoid overly aggressive species. Provide a rocky setup with open swimming areas. Weekly 20% water changes are recommended. Efficient filtration is necessary. Reproduction is maternal mouthbrooding.

##### [Zebra mbuna](/encyclopedia/maylandia-zebra)
**Maylandia zebra** — Cichlidae · fish
The zebra mbuna is a popular mbuna, recognizable by its blue and black vertical stripes. It is an active and territorial fish.
The body of Maylandia zebra is elongated and laterally compressed, with a light blue base color striped with black vertical bars. Males are more colorful than females. It is aggressive towards conspecifics, especially during breeding. It can reach 12 cm. It is a mouthbrooder: the female holds eggs in her mouth.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this mbuna in a minimum 200 L aquarium with plenty of rocks to create territories. Water should be alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5) and hard (GH 10-20). Temperature 24-28°C. They are herbivorous with omnivorous tendencies: feed spirulina-based foods and blanched vegetables. Avoid high-protein animal foods. A group of one male with several females is recommended. Watch out for fights.

##### [Festive Cichlid](/encyclopedia/mesonauta-festivus)
**Mesonauta festivus** — Cichlidae · fish
Medium-sized cichlid with a silvery body and characteristic black band, peaceful and easy to keep.
Mesonauta festivus reaches 12 to 15 cm. Its body is deep and compressed, silvery to light gray, with a broad black oblique band from the eye to the back. The fins are yellowish, sometimes with bluish reflections. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in groups. It is omnivorous and readily accepts prepared foods. In the aquarium, it is active but non-aggressive. Breeding occurs on a hard substrate (stone, leaf) and the parents protect the eggs and fry. It is hardy and tolerant of varied water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 150-liter aquarium is recommended for a group of 4 to 6 individuals. Water can be neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6.0-7.5) and medium hardness (GH 4-10), with a temperature of 24-28°C. Moderate filtration and standard lighting are suitable. Diet is omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetables. Avoid very small or aggressive fish; medium-sized tetras, corydoras, and angelfish are compatible. Provide open swimming areas and hiding places. Regular water changes (20% per week) maintain quality. Breeding is easy in a community tank.

##### [Bolivian ram](/encyclopedia/mikrogeophagus-altispinosus)
**Mikrogeophagus altispinosus** — Cichlidae · fish
A robust and peaceful dwarf cichlid, perfect for beginners.
The Bolivian ram is a larger and hardier dwarf cichlid than the blue ram. It displays silver, yellow and blue hues with a high dorsal fin. It is less demanding on water quality and adapts to a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 100L, with sandy substrate and plants. Neutral to slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-7.5), GH 5-15, temperature 24-28°C. Omnivore, accepts flakes, pellets and live food. Peaceful, can coexist with other calm fish.

##### [Ram cichlid](/encyclopedia/mikrogeophagus-ramirezi)
**Mikrogeophagus ramirezi** — Cichlidae · fish
The ram cichlid is a small, very colorful dwarf cichlid, appreciated for its bright colors and interesting behavior.
It reaches 5–7 cm. Its body is tall and laterally compressed, with colors ranging from blue to yellow, iridescent spots and ornate fins. Males have more pointed dorsal fins. Territorial but generally peaceful. Forms monogamous pairs. Sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 26–30°C, pH 5.5–7.0, very low hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a pair. Water must be very clean and stable. Gentle filtration and regular water changes. Décor with plants, driftwood and hiding spots. Diet: small live or frozen foods, quality pellets. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Golden Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/nannacara-anomala)
**Nannacara anomala** — Cichlidae · fish
Small dwarf cichlid with a golden body and bluish reflections, ideal for peaceful community aquariums.
Nannacara anomala reaches about 5 to 6 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a golden to light brown base color, dotted with iridescent blue spots on the flanks and fins. Males are more colorful and develop pointed dorsal and anal fins. It is a peaceful fish but becomes territorial during breeding. It lives in pairs or small groups. It prefers soft, acidic water with dense vegetation and hiding places. Its reproduction is typical of dwarf cichlids: egg-laying on a hard substrate (leaf, stone) and intensive parental care.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this cichlid in an aquarium of at least 60 liters for a pair. Water should be soft (GH 2-8) and acidic (pH 6.0-7.0), with a temperature of 24-28°C. Gentle filtration and moderate lighting are recommended. Diet is omnivorous: flakes, small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and frozen bloodworms. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates; peaceful tetras, corydoras, or small catfish are suitable. Provide hiding places with roots, stones, and plants. During breeding, the male becomes territorial but usually causes no damage. Parameters must be stable; regular water changes (20% per week) are necessary.

##### [Banded Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/nannacara-taenia)
**Nannacara taenia** — Cichlidae · fish
The Banded Dwarf Cichlid is a small dwarf cichlid with striped patterns, native to blackwater environments of South America. It is less common in aquariums but very interesting.
Nannacara taenia grows up to 5 cm. It has dark vertical bands on a light body. Males are more colorful than females. It is a shy and peaceful fish, preferring dimly lit aquariums with acidic water. It breeds by laying eggs on substrate. Parents care for the fry. It is sensitive to nitrates and requires very clean water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-5, KH 0-3. Minimum tank 60 liters. Carnivorous diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms. Compatible with other blackwater fish (tetras, small cichlids). Avoid active fish. Provide hiding spots (roots, oak leaves). Very soft and acidic water. Frequent water changes with RO water. Breeding possible in pairs.

##### [Brevis cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-brevis)
**Neolamprologus brevis** — Cichlidae · fish
Small shell-dwelling cichlid, territorial and monogamous.
Neolamprologus brevis is a small elongated cichlid reaching 5 cm. It lives exclusively in empty snail shells which it fiercely defends. Males are slightly larger and more colorful than females. It forms monogamous pairs and lays eggs inside the shell. Its behavior is fascinating to observe, especially during courtship displays. It is a very popular species in aquaristics for its small size and unique behavior.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-26°C with pH 8-9 and hardness GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Provide a fine sandy substrate and plenty of empty snail shells. Diet should be carnivorous: brine shrimp, daphnia, small pellets. A minimum tank volume of 30 liters for a pair, but a group requires at least 100 liters. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish; conspecifics should be kept in sufficient numbers to dilute aggression. Regular water changes are essential to maintain good water quality. This species is sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Brichardi cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-brichardi)
**Neolamprologus brichardi** — Cichlidae · fish
The Brichardi cichlid is a small cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, known for its complex social behavior and colonial breeding.
Neolamprologus brichardi has an elongated, slender body, beige to light brown with bluish reflections. The fins are edged in white. It reaches up to 8 cm. It is a schooling fish that lives in structured colonies. It is territorial but can coexist with other peaceful species. It spawns in caves and parents protect the fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 150 L with plenty of rocks and caves. Alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.5), hard (GH 10-20), temperature 24-27°C. They are omnivorous: accept flakes, pellets, artemia, and small worms. Keep a group of at least 6 to observe their social behavior. Avoid overly large or aggressive fish. Breeding is easy in the aquarium.

##### [Caudal-spot cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-caudopunctatus)
**Neolamprologus caudopunctatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Caudal-spot cichlid is a small peaceful cichlid recognizable by the black spot on its caudal fin. It lives in groups and is suitable for community aquariums.
This modest-sized cichlid (8-10 cm) has an elongated body of beige to light gray color, with a characteristic black spot on the upper part of the caudal fin. The fins are often edged with blue. It is a gregarious species that lives in schools in the wild, which reduces aggression. It is less territorial than other Neolamprologus and can coexist with peaceful fish of similar size. Its diet is omnivorous, including small crustaceans, insects, and algae. Breeding occurs in rock cavities, with parents protecting the fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Moderate filtration and regular water changes are sufficient. Feed a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and blanched vegetables. A tank of at least 80 liters is recommended for a group of 6-8 individuals. Decorate with rocks and sand, along with robust plants like Anubias. It is a peaceful species that can be kept with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids or community fish of medium size. Breeding is possible in the aquarium, with parents being good guardians. Avoid very active or aggressive fish.

##### [Cylindrical Cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-cylindricus)
**Neolamprologus cylindricus** — Cichlidae · fish
Neolamprologus cylindricus is an elongated cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, characterized by its cylindrical body and vertical bands. It is a territorial fish that lives in pairs.
This cichlid reaches up to 12 cm and has an elongated cylindrical body, hence its name. Coloration is beige to gray with 6 to 8 dark vertical bands. Fins are transparent with bluish reflections. The head is small and the mouth is terminal. It lives in rocky areas and hides in crevices. It is a very territorial fish, aggressive towards conspecifics and other species. Breeding occurs in caves with intense parental care. It is less common in aquariums than other Neolamprologus.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 8-12. A minimum 120-liter tank for a pair. Carnivorous/omnivorous diet: brine shrimp, worms, small fish, pellets. Avoid overly small or shy tankmates; prefer robust cichlids of similar size. Provide many rocks and caves. Regular water changes (20% weekly). Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Watch for aggression during breeding.

##### [Hecqu's shell-dweller](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-hecqui)
**Neolamprologus hecqui** — Cichlidae · fish
Small shell-dwelling cichlid with a more elongated body than other Neolamprologus.
Neolamprologus hecqui reaches 7 cm. It has a slender body and a low dorsal fin. It shares the shell-dwelling lifestyle with brevis and ocellatus but is less common in the hobby. Its coloration is brownish-silver with bluish reflections. It is territorial but less aggressive than ocellatus. Spawning occurs in the shell, with parents caring for the fry. It prefers larger shells. This species is ideal for a Lake Tanganyika biotope tank.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Sandy substrate and medium to large shells. Carnivorous diet: small crustaceans, larvae, pellets. A pair needs at least 50 liters. Group possible in a large tank (200L+). Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid overly active fish. Maintain well-oxygenated water. Weekly water changes are recommended. Sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Lemon Cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-leleupi)
**Neolamprologus leleupi** — Cichlidae · fish
Neolamprologus leleupi is a bright yellow cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, very popular in aquariums for its striking color. It is territorial and requires a dedicated tank.
This fish reaches 10 cm and has an elongated body of uniform lemon yellow color, without stripes or spots. The fins are also yellow, sometimes with a slight white border. It has a pointed head and a terminal mouth. It is a very territorial cichlid, especially during breeding. It lives in pairs and vigorously defends its cave. Spawning occurs on the ceiling of a cavity, and parents guard eggs and fry. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 8-12. A minimum 100-liter tank for a pair. Carnivorous/omnivorous diet: brine shrimp, bloodworms, small crustaceans, quality pellets. Avoid overly active tankmates; prefer other Tanganyika cichlids of similar size but not too aggressive. Provide many caves and hiding spots. Regular water changes (20% weekly). Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Watch for nitrite spikes.

##### [Multiband cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-multifasciatus)
**Neolamprologus multifasciatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Multiband cichlid is a small dwarf cichlid that lives in snail shells. It forms colonies and is very popular in the aquarium hobby.
It is one of the smallest cichlids from Lake Tanganyika, reaching only 5-6 cm. Its body is elongated with numerous dark vertical bands on a beige background. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It lives in colonies in sandy areas where it uses empty snail shells as shelter and breeding sites. Its behavior is territorial but the colony is organized hierarchically. It feeds on small invertebrates and plankton. Breeding occurs inside the shells, with the female laying eggs inside and the male fertilizing them.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. A gentle filtration is preferable to avoid disturbing the shells. Feed an omnivorous diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine granules. A tank of at least 60 liters is sufficient for a small colony. The substrate should be sandy with many empty snail shells (e.g., escargot shells). It is peaceful within the colony but can be territorial with other bottom-dwelling fish. Avoid very large or aggressive fish. Breeding is easy if conditions are met, with fry growing inside the shells.

##### [Ocellated shell-dweller](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-ocellatus)
**Neolamprologus ocellatus** — Cichlidae · fish
Small shell-dwelling cichlid, recognizable by its ocelli on the dorsal fin.
Neolamprologus ocellatus reaches up to 6 cm. It has characteristic ocellated spots on the dorsal fin. Like its cousin brevis, it lives in snail shells which it uses as shelter and spawning site. It is slightly more aggressive than brevis and defends a larger territory. Males are larger and develop longer fins. Reproduction occurs inside the shell, with both parents guarding eggs and fry. It is a hardy species and easy to breed in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Sandy substrate and plenty of shells. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, bloodworms, pellets. A pair can manage in 40 liters, but a group needs 120 liters or more. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid very small fish that might be intimidated. Water parameters must be stable. Efficient filtration is recommended. Nitrates should stay below 20 mg/L.

##### [Daffodil Cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-pulcher)
**Neolamprologus pulcher** — Cichlidae · fish
Neolamprologus pulcher is an elegant cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, recognizable by its bright yellow coloration and elongated fins. It is a social species that lives in colonies.
This cichlid reaches 10 cm in length, with an elongated body and a tall dorsal fin. The base color is bright yellow, sometimes with bluish reflections on the fins. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It lives in hierarchical groups and defends a territory around a cave. Reproduction is cooperative: adults help raise the young. It is a hardy and adaptable species, ideal for beginners in Tanganyika cichlids.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 8-12. A minimum 100-liter tank for a small group. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with other Tanganyika cichlids of similar size, but avoid overly aggressive species. Provide rocks and caves to create territories. Weekly water changes of 20%. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L.

##### [Six-bar Cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-sexfasciatus)
**Neolamprologus sexfasciatus** — Cichlidae · fish
Neolamprologus sexfasciatus is a large cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, recognizable by its six vertical black bands. It is an imposing and territorial fish, reserved for spacious aquariums.
This cichlid can reach 15 cm in length, with a robust and tall body. The base color is cream white to pale yellow, with six well-defined vertical black bands. The fins are large, the dorsal is long and pointed. Males are larger than females. It is a very territorial and aggressive fish, especially towards conspecifics. It lives in pairs and defends a large rocky area. Breeding occurs in a cave with parental care. It is less suitable for community tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 8-12. A minimum 150-liter tank for a pair. Carnivorous/omnivorous diet: whole fish, shrimp, worms, pellets. Avoid small fish; possible tankmates: large Tanganyika cichlids (e.g., Cyphotilapia frontosa). Provide large rocks and spacious caves. Regular water changes (20% weekly). Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Watch for aggression, especially during spawning.

##### [Similar cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-similis)
**Neolamprologus similis** — Cichlidae · fish
The Similar cichlid is a dwarf cichlid very close to the Multiband cichlid, with finer bands. It also lives in snail shells.
This small cichlid measures 5-6 cm and closely resembles Neolamprologus multifasciatus, but its vertical bands are narrower and more numerous. The base color is light beige with silvery reflections. It lives in colonies in the sandy areas of Lake Tanganyika, using snail shells as shelter. Its behavior is similar: territorial but forming hierarchical groups. It feeds on micro-invertebrates and plankton. Breeding occurs inside shells, with parental care.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. A gentle filtration is recommended. Omnivorous diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and finely chopped vegetables. A tank of at least 60 liters for a colony of 4-6 individuals. The substrate should be sandy with empty snail shells. It is a peaceful species that can coexist with other small peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid very large fish. Breeding is easy if shells are present. Fry stay near the shells and are protected by the parents.

##### [Splendid cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-splendens)
**Neolamprologus splendens** — Cichlidae · fish
Medium-sized cichlid living among rocks, with bright colors.
Neolamprologus splendens reaches up to 12 cm. It has a robust body and well-developed fins. Its coloration ranges from yellow to blue with metallic reflections. Unlike the other Neolamprologus in this list, it does not live in shells but in rock crevices. It is territorial and can be aggressive towards conspecifics. It forms monogamous pairs and lays eggs on rock surfaces. This species is prized for its beauty and interesting behavior.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Provide plenty of rock caves. Omnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, vegetable matter. A pair needs at least 100 liters. Group possible in a large tank (300L+). Compatible with other robust Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid very small fish. Strong filtration is necessary. Parameters must be stable. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L.

##### [Four-spine cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-tetracanthus)
**Neolamprologus tetracanthus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Four-spine cichlid is distinguished by its four spines on the anal fin. It is a territorial cichlid but less aggressive than some of its congeners.
This fish has an elongated body and a variable coloration from beige to gray with bluish reflections. It has four distinctive spines on the anal fin, hence its name. Males are slightly larger and more colorful than females. It lives in pairs or small groups in the rocky areas of Lake Tanganyika. Its behavior is territorial but it tolerates other species of similar size. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates and zooplankton. Adult size is about 10-12 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Efficient filtration and weekly water changes are necessary. Feed a carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and cichlid pellets. A tank of at least 120 liters is recommended for a pair. Decorate with rocks and sand to create hiding places. It can coexist with other Tanganyikan cichlids of comparable size, but avoid very small species. Breeding occurs on a rocky substrate, with both parents caring for eggs and fry. Maintain stable water parameters to avoid stress.

##### [Five-bar cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-tretocephalus)
**Neolamprologus tretocephalus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Five-bar cichlid is a Tanganyikan cichlid recognizable by its five vertical dark bars. It is a territorial fish that requires a species-specific aquarium.
This cichlid has an elongated and laterally compressed body, with a cream-white base color and five well-defined vertical black bars. The fins are often tinted light blue, and males develop filamentous extensions on the dorsal fin. It is territorial and forms monogamous pairs that vigorously defend their spawning site. In the wild, it inhabits rocky and sandy areas where it digs cavities to breed. It is an opportunistic predator that hunts small invertebrates and fish. Adult size reaches about 12 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, and high hardness (GH 10-20, KH 10-20). The water must be well oxygenated and filtered, with regular water changes. Feed a carnivorous diet: live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, small fish) and a quality pellet. A minimum tank volume of 150 liters is recommended for a pair. Decorate the aquarium with rocks and fine sand to mimic its natural habitat. Avoid keeping it with very small or shy fish, as it can be aggressive. Compatibility is possible with other robust Tanganyikan cichlids of similar size. Breeding occurs on a rocky substrate or in a cavity, with parents guarding eggs and fry.

##### [Livingston's cichlid](/encyclopedia/nimbochromis-livingstonii)
**Nimbochromis livingstonii** — Cichlidae · fish
Nimbochromis livingstonii is a predatory cichlid with a spotted pattern, known for its ambush hunting technique. It grows large and requires a spacious aquarium.
This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body and a large protractile mouth. Its base coloration is silvery or beige, covered with irregular dark spots that provide camouflage among vegetation. Adult males develop a bluish hue on the head and metallic sheen. It can reach up to 25 cm. It is an opportunistic predator that hides among plants or rocks to ambush prey. In the aquarium, it is peaceful with fish too large to eat, but may swallow smaller tankmates. It is best kept in a group of one male and several females to reduce intraspecific aggression.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 25cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum tank of 400 liters is required for a group. Provide open swimming areas and hiding spots with rocks and sturdy plants. Substrate can be sand. Diet should be carnivorous: whole fish, shrimp, earthworms, and carnivore cichlid pellets. Avoid floating foods that promote air intake. This species is generally peaceful with similarly sized fish, but should not be kept with very small species. Weekly water changes of 20–30% are recommended. Filtration should be strong with moderate current.

##### [Polystigma cichlid](/encyclopedia/nimbochromis-polystigma)
**Nimbochromis polystigma** — Cichlidae · fish
Nimbochromis polystigma is a medium-sized haps cichlid with a spotted body and predatory behavior. It is less aggressive than its relatives and suitable for community tanks of large cichlids.
This fish has an elongated body and a pointed head, with a slightly protractile mouth. Its coloration is silvery to beige, covered with many small dark spots that extend onto the fins. Adult males may show a slight bluish tint on the throat. It reaches about 20 cm. It is an ambush predator, hiding in vegetation or rocks. In the aquarium, it is generally peaceful with fish of equal or larger size, but may eat small fish. It is best kept in a group of one male and several females. Its behavior is less territorial than that of mbunas.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum tank volume of 300 liters is recommended for a group. The aquarium should have open areas and hiding spots with rocks and plants. Substrate can be sand. Diet is carnivorous: worms, shrimp, whole fish, carnivore pellets. Avoid fatty foods. This species cohabits well with other haps or robust mbunas, but not with very small fish. Weekly water changes of 20% are sufficient. Filtration should be efficient with moderate current.

##### [Venustus cichlid](/encyclopedia/nimbochromis-venustus)
**Nimbochromis venustus** — Cichlidae · fish
Nimbochromis venustus is a large haps cichlid with a spotted pattern and bluish head. It is an efficient predator that requires a spacious aquarium.
This cichlid has a robust, elongated body and a large mouth. Juveniles and females are silvery with dark spots, while adult males develop a bright blue head and nape, with the body remaining spotted. It can reach 25 cm. It is an ambush predator that uses its camouflage to surprise small fish. In the aquarium, it is relatively calm with similarly sized fish, but can be aggressive towards conspecifics. It is best kept in a group of one male and several females. It needs large swimming areas and hiding spots.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 25cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum tank of 400 liters is recommended for a group. Provide open areas and rocks for hiding. Substrate can be sand. Diet is carnivorous: whole fish, shrimp, worms, carnivore pellets. Avoid high-carb foods. This species can coexist with other large Malawi cichlids, but not with very small fish. Weekly water changes of 20–30% are necessary. Filtration should be strong with moderate to high current.

##### [Armbruster's Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-armbrusteri)
**Panaque armbrusteri** — Loricariidae · fish
Armbruster's Panaque is a Brazilian freshwater catfish, characterized by its spotted pattern and moderate size.
This fish has a robust body and a beige to gray coloration with irregular dark spots. Its sucker mouth is adapted for scraping wood. It reaches about 15 cm in aquariums. It is a peaceful and nocturnal species that appreciates hiding places. It feeds mainly on wood and vegetables. It was described relatively recently (2005). Its maintenance is similar to other medium-sized Panaque.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 150 liters is recommended. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-10), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. Driftwood is essential. Supplement with blanched vegetables and herbivore pellets. Nitrates should stay below 20 mg/L. Moderate filtration and regular water changes are sufficient. This species is compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Clown Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-maccus)
**Panaque maccus** — Loricariidae · fish
The Clown Panaque is a small freshwater catfish with a spotted pattern, very popular in aquariums.
This fish has a stocky body and a beige to yellow coloration with large black spots. It has a sucker mouth and teeth adapted for scraping wood. It reaches a maximum size of about 12 cm. It is a peaceful and nocturnal species that appreciates hiding places. It is less dependent on wood than large Panaque but still consumes it. It is often confused with other small Panaque species. Its maintenance is relatively easy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-10), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. Provide driftwood, caves, and plants. Diet should include blanched vegetables, herbivore pellets, and wood. Nitrates should stay below 20 mg/L. Moderate filtration and regular water changes are sufficient. This species is compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Royal Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-nigrolineatus)
**Panaque nigrolineatus** — Loricariidae · fish
The Royal Panaque is a large freshwater catfish known for its distinctive black stripes and wood-based diet.
This fish has a robust body and a beige to gray coloration with longitudinal black lines. Its sucker mouth is equipped with rasp-like teeth for scraping wood. It can reach a size of 30-40 cm in aquariums. It is a peaceful species but can become territorial with age. It is mainly nocturnal and spends the day hiding. It is known for its ability to digest cellulose thanks to specialized gut flora. In aquariums, it requires a large water volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 35cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 400 liters is necessary for an adult. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-10), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. Driftwood is essential in the diet and must be present at all times. Supplement with blanched vegetables, herbivore pellets, and occasionally protein foods. Nitrates should be kept below 20 mg/L. Powerful filtration and weekly water changes are recommended. This species is compatible with large peaceful fish. Avoid small fish that might be intimidated.

##### [Sutton's Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-suttoni)
**Panaque suttoni** — Loricariidae · fish
Sutton's Panaque is a Colombian freshwater catfish, recognizable by its patterns and medium size.
This fish has an elongated body and a beige base coloration with dark spots sometimes forming lines. Its sucker mouth is typical of Loricariidae. It can reach 20 cm in aquariums. It is a peaceful and nocturnal species that hides in caves or under wood. It feeds mainly on wood and vegetables. It is less common in the hobby than other Panaque. Its maintenance is similar to other species of the genus.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 250 liters is recommended for an adult. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-10), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. Driftwood is essential in the diet. Supplement with blanched vegetables and herbivore pellets. Nitrates should be kept below 20 mg/L. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. This species is compatible with peaceful medium to large fish. Avoid very small or aggressive species.

##### [Titan Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-titan)
**Panaque titan** — Loricariidae · fish
A large and impressive catfish with a tiger-striped pattern, famous for its need of wood in its diet.
The Titan Panaque is a large loricariid reaching up to 45 cm. Its body is robust, covered with bony plates, with a tall dorsal fin and a lyre-shaped tail. The base color is dark brown to black, adorned with irregular vertical light bands. It has a powerful sucker mouth and rasp-like teeth to scrape wood. It is a nocturnal and rather solitary fish, but tolerant of other peaceful species. It is known for its ecological role as a xylophage (wood-eater) in its natural habitat. In the aquarium, it requires strong filtration and well-oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 45cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, and GH 5-15. A large aquarium of at least 400 liters is required due to its adult size. The diet must include wood (roots, branches) as the main source of fiber, supplemented with blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber) and meaty foods (worms, shrimp). It is sensitive to water quality; regular water changes (30% weekly) are essential. Avoid aggressive or very small tankmates; choose peaceful medium to large fish. Moderate to strong current is appreciated. Breeding in captivity is very rare and poorly documented.

##### [Pseudotropheus acei](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-acei)
**Pseudotropheus acei** — Cichlidae · fish
An elongated mbuna, recognizable by its bright yellow tail and blue-purple body. Relatively peaceful for a mbuna.
Pseudotropheus acei has an elongated, slightly compressed body. Adult males are blue-purple with a bright yellow caudal fin; females are duller, gray-brown with a pale yellow tail. It reaches up to 10 cm. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. In the wild, it feeds mainly on algae and plankton. In the aquarium, it is less aggressive than other mbunas, but males can be territorial. It lives in hierarchical groups.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 200L tank is needed for a group of 5. Provide rocks to form hiding places and territories. Diet should be herbivorous: spirulina, blanched vegetables, algae-based pellets. Avoid excess animal protein. Males can be aggressive towards each other; a group with several females is recommended. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Weekly water changes.

##### [Pseudotropheus cyaneorhabdos](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-cyaneorhabdos)
**Pseudotropheus cyaneorhabdos** — Cichlidae · fish
A small mbuna with an elongated body, bright blue with a horizontal black stripe. Very active and territorial.
Pseudotropheus cyaneorhabdos has an elongated, fusiform body. Males are electric blue with a longitudinal black stripe on the flank; females are gray-blue with a less visible stripe. It reaches up to 8 cm. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It feeds on algae and micro-invertebrates. It is one of the most aggressive mbunas for its size, requiring a spacious tank with many hiding places. It lives in groups with a strict hierarchy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 300L tank is advised for a group of 6-8. The setup should be very rocky with many crevices. Herbivorous diet: spirulina, algae, vegetable pellets. Avoid meaty foods. Males are very territorial; a group with a single male or a ratio of 1 male to 4-5 females is best. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Frequent water changes.

##### [Demasoni cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-demasoni)
**Pseudotropheus demasoni** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus demasoni is a small, brightly colored mbuna cichlid popular in the aquarium trade for its blue and black stripes. It is endemic to Lake Malawi.
This fish reaches about 7–8 cm in adulthood. Males display vivid blue and black vertical stripes, while females are duller. It has an elongated body and a downward-facing mouth, typical of mbunas. Its behavior is territorial and aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It lives in hierarchical groups in rocky areas. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: VU
Keep temperature between 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, and GH 10–20. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for a group. Diet should be mainly vegetable-based (spirulina, vegetables) with few animal proteins. Avoid keeping with very peaceful or small fish. Rocky hiding places are essential to reduce aggression. Perform regular water changes (20% weekly).

##### [Elongate mbuna](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-elongatus)
**Pseudotropheus elongatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The elongate mbuna is a mbuna with an elongated body, often blue or yellow in color. It is territorial and active.
Pseudotropheus elongatus has a more elongated body than other mbunas, with a low dorsal fin. Its coloration varies from dark blue to yellow with vertical bars. Dominant males are more vivid. It reaches up to 10 cm. It is an aggressive fish, especially towards similar species. It is a mouthbrooder.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 L with plenty of rocks and hiding places. Alkaline water (pH 7.5-8.5), hard (GH 10-20), temperature 24-28°C. Herbivorous diet: spirulina, vegetables, vegetable pellets. Avoid animal proteins. Keep a group with one male to several females to dilute aggression. Compatible with other robust mbunas.

##### [Pursus cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-pursus)
**Pseudotropheus pursus** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus pursus is a little-known mbuna endemic to Lake Malawi. It resembles other species of the genus in morphology and behavior.
This species reaches about 8–10 cm. Males are generally light blue with dark vertical bars, females are brownish. Its body is elongated and mouth downward-facing. It is territorial and aggressive, like most mbunas. It feeds on algae and biofilm on rocks. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding. Little information is available on its precise ecology.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: DD
Water parameters similar to other mbunas: 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 120-liter tank is recommended. Herbivorous diet based on spirulina and vegetables. Aggressive behavior, keep with robust species. Provide rocky hiding places. Regular water changes. Efficient filtration.

##### [Saulosi cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-saulosi)
**Pseudotropheus saulosi** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus saulosi is a modest-sized mbuna known for its bright male coloration. It is endemic to Lake Malawi and highly sought after in the aquarium trade.
Adult males reach about 7–8 cm and display an electric blue body with vertical black stripes, while females are yellow-orange. Their mouth is downward-facing for grazing algae. They are territorial and aggressive, especially among males. They live in groups in shallow rocky areas. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: VU
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 100-liter tank is needed for a group. Diet should be rich in vegetables (spirulina, spinach). Avoid overly peaceful fish. Provide plenty of rocks to create territories. Change 20% water weekly. Strong filtration is recommended.

##### [Pseudotropheus socolofi](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-socolofi)
**Pseudotropheus socolofi** — Cichlidae · fish
A medium-sized mbuna, with a light blue body and dark vertical bars. Popular in the hobby for its coloration.
Pseudotropheus socolofi has a robust, slightly compressed body. Males are light blue with 6-7 black vertical bars; females are paler with less distinct bars. It reaches 12 cm. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It feeds on algae and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, it is moderately aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It needs plenty of rocky hiding places. Dominant males defend a territory.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 250L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 250L tank is recommended for a group of 5-6. Provide a rocky setup with crevices. Herbivorous diet: spirulina, spinach, vegetable pellets. Avoid high-protein foods. Keep a ratio of 1 male to 3-4 females to reduce aggression. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Efficient filtration is necessary.

##### [Tropheops cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-tropheops)
**Pseudotropheus tropheops** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus tropheops is a medium-sized mbuna with highly variable coloration among populations. It is endemic to Lake Malawi and common in the aquarium trade.
Males reach 10–12 cm and often show blue, yellow or orange coloration with variable patterns. Females are usually duller. Their mouth is downward-facing for grazing algae. They are territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding. They live in groups in rocky areas. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding. Several geographic forms exist.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 150-liter tank is recommended for a group. Herbivorous diet (spirulina, vegetables). Avoid overly peaceful fish. Provide rocks and hiding places. Change 20% water weekly. Strong filtration. Compatible with other robust mbunas.

##### [Zebra cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-zebra)
**Pseudotropheus zebra** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus zebra is one of the best-known mbunas, characterized by its vertical stripes. It is endemic to Lake Malawi and widespread in the aquarium trade.
Adult males reach 12–15 cm and display blue and black stripes, while females are often brown-yellow. Their body is robust and mouth downward-facing. They are highly territorial and aggressive, especially among males. They live in groups in rocky areas. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding. Several color varieties exist (e.g., 'red zebra').
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 200-liter tank is needed for a group. Herbivorous diet (spirulina, vegetables). Avoid very small or peaceful fish. Provide many rocks and hiding places. Change 20% water weekly. Strong filtration. Compatible with other mbunas of similar size.

##### [Altum angelfish](/encyclopedia/pterophyllum-altum)
**Pterophyllum altum** — Cichlidae · fish
A majestic angelfish, taller than wide, requiring a large aquarium.
The altum angelfish is the largest angelfish species, reaching 15 cm in height. It has a silver body with dark vertical bars and very long fins. It is sensitive to water quality and requires soft, acidic water. It is a gregarious fish that lives in groups.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NT
Tank of at least 200L, tall (60 cm minimum), with tall plants and roots. Very soft water (GH < 5, KH < 2), pH 5.0-6.5, temperature 26-30°C. Varied diet: brine shrimp, bloodworms, small fish. Avoid strong currents. Keep in groups of 4-6.

##### [Angelfish](/encyclopedia/pterophyllum-scalare)
**Pterophyllum scalare** — Cichlidae · fish
The angelfish is an iconic South American cichlid, recognizable by its triangular shape and long fins. It is very popular in the aquarium hobby.
The angelfish has a tall, laterally compressed body with highly developed dorsal and anal fins. Its silvery coloration is crossed by dark vertical bars, but many captive varieties exist (marble, black, veil). It is a calm but territorial fish during breeding. It forms monogamous pairs and spawns on vertical surfaces. Adults can reach 15 cm in height and 20 cm in length.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep angelfish in an aquarium of at least 200 L with significant water height (minimum 50 cm). Water should be acidic (pH 6.0-6.5) and very soft (GH 3-8). Ideal temperature is between 26 and 30°C. Provide a setup with roots, tall plants, and subdued lighting. They are omnivorous: accept flakes, pellets, artemia, and bloodworms. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates; prefer peaceful fish like tetras or corydoras. Efficient filtration is needed, but avoid strong current.

##### [Lapidiferous Retroculus](/encyclopedia/retroculus-lapidifer)
**Retroculus lapidifer** — Cichlidae · fish
Rheophilic cichlid with a streamlined body, adapted to strong currents. Feeds by scraping stones.
Retroculus lapidifer reaches 15-20 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed, with a subterminal mouth adapted for grazing. The coloration is silvery with bluish reflections and a series of dark spots on the flanks. The fins are amber. It is an active fish that lives in groups in current zones. It feeds on algae and microorganisms scraped from rocks. In the aquarium, it requires strong current and highly oxygenated water. It is semi-aggressive towards conspecifics but can coexist with other rheophiles.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 250 liters for a group of 4-6. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 5-15, KH 2-8. Omnivorous diet with herbivorous tendency: algae, blanched vegetables, pellets, brine shrimp. Decor with pebbles, coarse sand, roots. Powerful filtration with a wavemaker. Compatible with other current-loving fish (Loricariidae, Characins). Weekly water changes of 30%. Breeding difficult, spawns on hard substrate.

##### [Jurupari cichlid](/encyclopedia/satanoperca-jurupari)
**Satanoperca jurupari** — Cichlidae · fish
Peaceful, sand-sifting cichlid with a downturned mouth and golden patterns. Ideal for an Amazonian biotope.
Satanoperca jurupari is a medium-sized cichlid (up to 20 cm) with an elongated, laterally compressed body. Its base color is gray-brown with golden highlights and a series of dark spots along the flank. It has a downturned mouth adapted for sifting sand in search of food. Its behavior is generally peaceful, but it can become territorial during breeding. It is a gregarious fish that appreciates the presence of conspecifics. It is known for constantly turning over the substrate, requiring fine, non-abrasive sand.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep an aquarium of at least 200 liters with a fine sand substrate to allow sifting. Ideal temperature is 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–10. Efficient filtration is required as this fish produces a lot of waste. Feed a varied diet: sinking pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and blanched vegetables. It is compatible with other peaceful cichlids and medium-sized schooling fish. Avoid aggressive or very small species. Weekly water changes of 30% are recommended. Breeding is possible with a bonded pair, on a flat stone or in a sand depression.

##### [Blue discus](/encyclopedia/symphysodon-aequifasciatus)
**Symphysodon aequifasciatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The blue discus is a South American cichlid renowned for its round shape and bright colors. It is considered the king of the freshwater aquarium.
The blue discus has a disc-shaped, laterally compressed body with long dorsal and anal fins. Its base coloration is electric blue with darker vertical stripes. Many selected varieties exist. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups. It is sensitive to stress and requires impeccable water quality. Adults reach up to 15 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 28-30°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep discus in groups of at least 5 in a minimum 300 L aquarium. Water must be very acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-4). Ideal temperature is 28-30°C. Weekly 30% water changes are essential. The setup should include roots, robust plants, and a dark substrate. They are carnivorous: feed quality frozen foods (artemia, bloodworms) and specific pellets. Avoid aggressive fish; tetras and corydoras are good tankmates.

##### [Red discus](/encyclopedia/symphysodon-discus)
**Symphysodon discus** — Cichlidae · fish
The red discus is a colorful variant of the discus, highly prized for its intense red coloration. It shares the same requirements as the blue discus.
The red discus has a disc-shaped, compressed body with extended dorsal and anal fins. Its color ranges from bright red to orange, often with iridescent blue spots. It is a schooling and peaceful fish, but very sensitive to water quality. It can reach up to 15 cm in diameter. In the aquarium, it requires constant attention.
Parameters: Temperature 28-30°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requirements are identical to those of the blue discus: minimum 300 L aquarium, group of 5, very acidic water (pH 5.5-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-4), temperature 28-30°C. Frequent water changes are crucial. The setup should provide hiding places and subdued lighting. Diet must be varied and protein-rich. Avoid boisterous fish. Breeding is possible but delicate.

##### [Heckel discus](/encyclopedia/symphysodon-heckelii)
**Symphysodon heckelii** — Cichlidae · fish
The most famous wild discus, demanding in care but magnificent.
The Heckel discus is one of the most iconic discus species. It is distinguished by five dark vertical bars on a blue-green body. It lives in schools in acidic blackwaters. It is a very sensitive fish requiring perfectly clean and stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 28-30°C, pH 5-6, GH 1-3
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NT
Tank of at least 200L, with bare bottom or sparse planting, roots and frequent water changes. Very soft water (GH < 3, KH < 1), pH 5.0-6.0, temperature 28-30°C. Rich varied diet: beef heart, brine shrimp, worms. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid stressful tankmates.

##### [Tropheus annectens](/encyclopedia/tropheus-annectens)
**Tropheus annectens** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus annectens is a less colorful but interesting cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. It is data deficient in the wild.
Tropheus annectens has a slender body compared to other Tropheus, with a brownish-green base color and a yellow belly. Males may show a faint yellow band. They are herbivorous and feed on aufwuchs. They are aggressive and require large groups. They are maternal mouthbrooders. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, but its exact distribution is poorly known. They are smaller, reaching only 10 cm. They are less common in the aquarium trade.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: DD
Tropheus annectens requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of rockwork. Water parameters: pH 8.0-9.0, temperature 24-27°C, GH 10-20, KH 12-18. Strict herbivorous diet. Keep in groups of at least 5-6. Weekly water changes. Nitrate < 20 ppm. Data deficient species, be mindful of origin. Compatible with other Tropheus of similar size. Strong filtration recommended.

##### [Brichard's Tropheus](/encyclopedia/tropheus-brichardi)
**Tropheus brichardi** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus brichardi is a colorful cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, known for its bright yellow and black pattern. It is a challenging species requiring specialized care.
Tropheus brichardi has a robust, laterally compressed body with a striking yellow base and black vertical bars. Males are more intensely colored than females. They are herbivorous, feeding on aufwuchs (algae and microorganisms) in the wild. They are highly aggressive, especially towards conspecifics, and require large groups to spread aggression. They are maternal mouthbrooders. This species is endemic to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika. They are known for their intelligence and interactive behavior. They can be territorial and need plenty of rockwork.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tropheus brichardi requires a tank of at least 200 liters, preferably larger, with extensive rockwork to create territories. Water parameters: pH 8.0-9.0, temperature 24-27°C, GH 10-20, KH 12-18. They are strict herbivores; feed spirulina-based foods, blanched vegetables, and avoid high-protein foods. Keep in groups of at least 5-6 to reduce aggression. They are sensitive to water quality; perform weekly water changes. Nitrate should be kept below 20 ppm. They are not recommended for beginners. Compatible with other Tanganyikan cichlids of similar size and temperament. Provide strong filtration and water movement.

##### [Dubois' Tropheus](/encyclopedia/tropheus-duboisi)
**Tropheus duboisi** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus duboisi is a striking cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, with a black body and a bright yellow band. It is a vulnerable species in the wild.
Tropheus duboisi has a deep, laterally compressed body. Adults are black with a broad yellow vertical band across the mid-body, and white spots on the head. Juveniles are black with white spots. They are herbivorous, feeding on aufwuchs. They are highly aggressive and territorial. They are maternal mouthbrooders. Endemic to a small area near Kigoma, Tanzania. They are considered vulnerable due to overcollection and habitat degradation. They require pristine water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: VU
Tropheus duboisi requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of rockwork. Water parameters: pH 8.0-9.0, temperature 24-27°C, GH 10-20, KH 12-18. Strict herbivorous diet: spirulina, blanched vegetables. Keep in groups of at least 5-6. Weekly water changes are essential. Nitrate < 20 ppm. Vulnerable species, prefer captive-bred specimens. Compatible with other Tropheus of similar size. Avoid overly peaceful fish. Strong filtration required.

##### [Kasaba Tropheus](/encyclopedia/tropheus-kasabae)
**Tropheus kasabae** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus kasabae is a vibrant cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, with an orange-yellow body and black bars. It is near threatened in the wild.
Tropheus kasabae has a robust body with a bright orange-yellow base and bold black vertical bars. Males are more colorful. They are herbivorous, feeding on aufwuchs. They are highly aggressive and need large groups. They are maternal mouthbrooders. Endemic to the Kasaba Bay area of Lake Tanganyika. They are near threatened due to limited distribution and collection. They require stable water conditions and a diet rich in plant matter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NT
Tropheus kasabae requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of rockwork. Water parameters: pH 8.0-9.0, temperature 24-27°C, GH 10-20, KH 12-18. Strict herbivorous diet: spirulina, blanched vegetables. Keep in groups of at least 5-6. Weekly water changes. Nitrate < 20 ppm. Near threatened species, prefer captive-bred. Compatible with other Tropheus. Strong filtration and moderate flow.

##### [Moorii cichlid](/encyclopedia/tropheus-moorii)
**Tropheus moorii** — Cichlidae · fish
The Moorii cichlid is a herbivorous cichlid renowned for its bright colors and territorial behavior. It is highly prized by advanced aquarists.
Tropheus moorii has a stocky, robust body, with coloration varying by location: yellow, orange, red, or black with bands. Males are larger and more colorful. It reaches up to 14 cm. It is very aggressive towards conspecifics, especially males. It is a mouthbrooder. Its diet is strictly herbivorous.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 12-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 14cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 300 L with plenty of rocks and open swimming space. Alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.5), very hard (GH 12-20), temperature 24-27°C. Strictly vegetarian diet: spirulina, spinach, algae. Never feed animal proteins. Keep a group of at least 10 to dilute aggression, with a ratio of several females per male. Regular water changes are important.

##### [Poll's Tropheus](/encyclopedia/tropheus-polli)
**Tropheus polli** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus polli is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika, known for its striking coloration and aggressive behavior. It is highly prized in the aquarium hobby but requires specific care.
Tropheus polli has an elongated, laterally compressed body with a dark brown or black base coloration and a broad bright yellow or orange band on the flank. The fins are often edged with blue. Males are slightly larger and more colorful than females. This species is highly territorial and forms strict hierarchies. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm scraped from rocks. In aquariums, it can become very aggressive towards conspecifics if the group is too small. Reproduction is by mouthbrooding, with the female carrying eggs and fry in her mouth for several weeks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24–27°C, pH 8.0–9.0, GH 10–20, and KH 8–12. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is required for a group of at least 10 individuals. Diet should be primarily vegetable-based: spirulina, blanched vegetables, herbivore pellets. Avoid high-protein animal foods. Weekly water changes of 20–30% are important. Filtration must be strong with good water movement. Compatibility is limited to other robust Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid peaceful or small fish. A rocky decor with plenty of hiding places is essential.

##### [Uaru Cichlid](/encyclopedia/uaru-amphiacanthoides)
**Uaru amphiacanthoides** — Cichlidae · fish
Large cichlid with a deep, compressed body, peaceful but requiring a large water volume.
Uaru amphiacanthoides reaches 20 to 25 cm. Its body is deep, laterally compressed, oval-shaped, with an olive-brown to grayish coloration, scattered with irregular light spots. The fins are long and rounded. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in groups. It is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency, feeding on plants and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, it needs swimming space and hiding places. Reproduction is egg-laying on substrate, with parental care. It is sensitive to water quality and nitrates.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 300-liter aquarium is needed for a group of 4 to 6 individuals. Water should be acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and soft (GH 2-6), with a temperature of 26-30°C. Powerful filtration but moderate flow is recommended. Diet should include vegetables (spinach, zucchini) and protein foods. Avoid very small fish; peaceful cichlids of similar size (Angelfish, Discus) or large tetras are suitable. Provide large plants, roots, and rocks. Weekly water changes of 30% are essential. Captive breeding is possible but requires a specific tank.

##### [Bristlenose pleco](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-cirrhosus)
**Ancistrus cirrhosus** — Loricariidae · fish
The bristlenose pleco is an armored catfish known for its nasal tentacles in males, very effective at cleaning algae.
Ancistrus cirrhosus reaches 12-15 cm. Its body is ventrally flattened, covered with bony plates. The mouth is a sucker. Adult males develop fleshy tentacles on the snout. Coloration is brown to olive with light spots. The fins are broad. It is a nocturnal and territorial fish towards its own kind. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm. It is very hardy and suitable for community aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 L is recommended. Water should be well oxygenated, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, temperature 24-28°C. Moderate current is appreciated. Provide hiding places (rocks, roots, pipes). Omnivorous with herbivorous tendency: give blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber), algae wafers, and some protein. Avoid overstocking. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Males may fight.

##### [Longfin bristlenose](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-dolichopterus)
**Ancistrus dolichopterus** — Loricariidae · fish
A peaceful small catfish with elongated fins, ideal for community aquariums.
Ancistrus dolichopterus, also known as the longfin bristlenose, is a catfish from the Loricariidae family native to the Amazon basin. It is distinguished by its particularly developed dorsal and caudal fins forming long filaments. Its body is covered with bony plates and its sucker mouth allows it to graze on algae. It is a nocturnal and peaceful fish that cohabits well with other non-aggressive species.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain well-oxygenated water with moderate flow. Provide hiding places (driftwood, rocks) and a fine sand substrate. Diet should include algae, blanched vegetables, and bottom-feeder tablets. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates.

##### [Hoplogenys Ancistrus](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-hoplogenys)
**Ancistrus hoplogenys** — Loricariidae · fish
Hoplogenys Ancistrus is a large herbivorous ancistrus, recognizable by its developed tentacles and spotted pattern. It is ideal for large community aquariums.
This fish has a robust, flattened body, dark brown to black with yellow or white spots. Males have numerous tentacles on the head, longer than in A. temminckii. The sucker mouth is wide. The fins are large and adorned with light spots. It is nocturnal and territorial. It spends the day hidden in caves or under roots. It is an excellent algae grazer. It can reach 15 cm, requiring a large volume. It is compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 150L is recommended for one specimen, 200L for a pair. Provide plenty of hiding spots and driftwood. Temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15. Diet: algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and occasional protein supplements. They are peaceful but can be aggressive between males. Strong filtration is needed. Regular water changes. Breeding occurs in a cave; the male tends the spawn. Fry are easy to raise with algae and vegetables.

##### [Starlight Bristlenose Pleco](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-leucostictus)
**Ancistrus leucostictus** — Loricariidae · fish
Ancistrus leucostictus is a small armored catfish adorned with white spots, highly valued in aquariums for its algae-eating role and hardiness.
This fish has a ventrally flattened body, a sucker mouth, and high-set eyes. Adult males develop tentacles (bristles) on the snout, characteristic of the genus. Its base color is dark brown to black, sprinkled with small regular white or yellow spots. It has a tall dorsal fin and broad pectoral fins. It is nocturnal and shy, hiding during the day in caves or under driftwood. It is territorial towards conspecifics but peaceful with other species. Its lifespan can reach 10 to 12 years in an aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 23-27°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended for one specimen, with a decor including hiding places (rocks, roots, caves). The substrate can be fine sand or gravel. Filtration should be efficient with moderate flow. Ideal parameters are temperature 23-27°C, pH 6.0-7.5, hardness GH 5-15°dGH and KH 2-8°dKH. It feeds mainly on algae, bottom-dweller tablets, and blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber). It is compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive or overly active species. A weekly water change of 20-30% is advised.

##### [Temminck's Ancistrus](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-temminckii)
**Ancistrus temminckii** — Loricariidae · fish
Temminck's Ancistrus is an armored herbivorous catfish, known for its oral tentacles in males. It is very effective at cleaning algae in the aquarium.
This fish has a flattened, armored body, brown to olive with light spots. Males develop tentacles (barbels) on the snout, used during displays. The mouth is a sucker, adapted for grazing algae. The fins are broad and rounded. It is mainly nocturnal but can be active during the day if the tank is well planted. It is territorial, especially among males. It hides in caves or under roots. It can be kept as a pair or harem.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100L is recommended for a pair. Provide hiding places (caves, driftwood). Temperature 23–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15. Diet: algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber), and occasional worms. They are peaceful but can be territorial with other loricariids. Strong filtration is needed, but current should be moderate. Weekly water changes of 20–30%. Breeding occurs in a cave; the male guards the eggs until hatching.

##### [Australe killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-australe)
**Aphyosemion australe** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
The australe killifish is a small colorful fish, ideal for nano-aquariums. It is peaceful but males can be territorial with each other.
The body is elongated and slender, with variable coloration depending on the population: generally metallic blue with red spots on the flanks and yellow-green fins. Males are more colorful than females. The caudal fin is often lyre-shaped. This species is a surface fish, enjoying calm and shaded areas. It is very active and sometimes jumps out of the water. In aquariums, it often stays near the surface. Adult size is 5-6 cm. Lifespan is 2-3 years. Reproduction is easy: eggs are laid on mops or fine-leaved plants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A 30-liter aquarium is sufficient for a pair or trio (1 male to 2 females). The tank should be heavily planted with shaded areas and floating cover. Filtration should be gentle (sponge). Ideal temperature is 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.0, hardness 2-8 dGH. Diet is carnivorous: artemia, daphnia, bloodworms, small insects. Avoid overly active or large tankmates. Water changes should be moderate (10-15% weekly). A lid is essential as they jump. Reproduction is easy: remove eggs regularly to prevent predation.

##### [Two-banded killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-bivittatum)
**Aphyosemion bivittatum** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
The two-banded killifish is a small peaceful fish with bright colors, easy to keep and breed. It is perfect for beginners in killifish.
The body is elongated and slightly laterally compressed. The base coloration is brown-yellow with two characteristic dark longitudinal bands: one median and one lower. The fins are often tinted red or orange in males. Females are duller. This species is very active and generally stays near the surface. It is peaceful and can coexist with other small calm fish. Adult size is 5-6 cm. Lifespan is 2-3 years. Reproduction is easy: eggs are laid on fine-leaved plants or mops.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A 30-liter aquarium is sufficient for a pair or trio. The tank should be planted with shaded areas and floating cover. Filtration should be gentle (sponge). Ideal temperature is 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.0, hardness 2-8 dGH. Diet is carnivorous: artemia, daphnia, bloodworms, small insects. Avoid overly large or aggressive fish. Water changes should be moderate (10-15% weekly). A lid is essential. Reproduction is simple: remove eggs to incubate separately.

##### [Celestial killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-coeleste)
**Aphyosemion coeleste** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Aphyosemion coeleste is a small, brightly colored killifish highly prized by specialized aquarists. It is distinguished by its sky-blue body dotted with red spots.
This killifish reaches about 4–5 cm. Males display an intense electric blue with red spots on the flanks and caudal fin. Females are duller, brownish with a few spots. It is a peaceful species but males can be territorial with each other. In the aquarium, it prefers soft, acidic water with dense vegetation and subdued lighting. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate (Java moss or peat fibers). The eggs require a drying period to hatch (incubation 3–6 weeks).
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-6.8, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep soft water (GH 2–6, KH 1–3) and acidic (pH 6.0–6.8) at a temperature of 22–26°C. A minimum tank volume of 30 liters is recommended for a pair. Feed a varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and small pellets. Avoid strong currents. Use gentle filtration (sponge or foam). Floating plants and hiding spots are appreciated. Sensitive to nitrates (max 20 mg/L). Regular water changes (20% weekly). Compatible with other small peaceful fish (rasboras, small corydoras).

##### [Gardner's killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-gardneri)
**Aphyosemion gardneri** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Aphyosemion gardneri is a popular killifish in the hobby, recognizable by its metallic blue-green colors and red-edged fins.
Males reach up to 6 cm and display an iridescent blue-green body with red spots on the flanks. The unpaired fins are edged in bright red. Females are brownish with dark spots. This is an active, curious species that occupies the middle water column. In the aquarium, it enjoys soft, acidic water, abundant vegetation, and shaded areas. Reproduction is similar to other Aphyosemion: substrate spawning with dry incubation of 4–8 weeks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal parameters: pH 6.0–7.0, GH 2–8, KH 1–4, temperature 22–26°C. A minimum 40-liter tank for a pair. Varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, small pellets. Gentle filtration, moderate lighting. Floating plants recommended. Sensitive to nitrates (max 20 mg/L). Weekly 20% water changes. Compatible with other small peaceful fish (neon tetras, small corydoras). Avoid fast or aggressive species.

##### [Striped killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-striatum)
**Aphyosemion striatum** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Aphyosemion striatum is recognized by its dark horizontal stripes on a light background, hence its name. It is an elegant killifish and relatively easy to keep.
This killifish reaches 4–5 cm. Males have a beige to yellow body with 4–6 brown longitudinal stripes, and fins tinted red and yellow. Females are duller with less distinct stripes. It is a peaceful species, ideal for a community tank of small fish. It prefers soft, slightly acidic water with dense vegetation. Reproduction is classic: substrate spawning (moss or peat) and dry incubation of 3–5 weeks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.2, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 6.0–7.2, GH 3–8, KH 1–4, temperature 22–26°C. Minimum 30 liters for a pair. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, flakes. Gentle filtration, moderate lighting. Floating plants and hiding spots. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Weekly 20% water changes. Compatible with small tetras, rasboras, corydoras. Avoid large or aggressive fish.

##### [Rosy barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-conchonius)
**Barbus conchonius** — Cyprinidae · fish
Peaceful and colorful barb, with a rosy body and red fins. Very active, ideal for community aquariums.
Rosy barb grows up to 8 cm. Males display a bright pink to red coloration on the body and fins, especially during breeding. Females are duller, silvery. The body is fusiform and slightly compressed. It is a gregarious fish that must live in groups of at least 6. It is very active and swims throughout the water column. It is known for its hardiness and ease of care.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80-liter aquarium is suitable for a group. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A planted setup with open areas is appreciated. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, pellets, and live food. Compatible with most peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid very slow or long-finned species. Breeding is easy in a specific tank with fine plants.

##### [Clown Barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-everetti)
**Barbus everetti** — Cyprinidae · fish
The Clown Barb is a colorful and lively fish with red and black patterns. It is appreciated for its active behavior in community tanks.
This barb reaches 12 cm. Its body is silvery with red and black spots, and a black-edged dorsal fin. Males are more colorful. It is a gregarious fish that must live in groups of at least 5. Omnivorous, it feeds on flakes, small invertebrates, and plant matter. Peaceful but may be slightly boisterous with slow fish.
Parameters: Temperature 23-27°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 23-27°C, pH 6.0-7.0, hardness 3-10 dGH. A minimum 100-liter tank for a group. Diet should be varied: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Provide subdued lighting and shaded areas. Efficient filtration with moderate flow. Hardy but sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Blackspot Barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-filamentosus)
**Barbus filamentosus** — Cyprinidae · fish
The Blackspot Barb is distinguished by a black spot on the caudal peduncle. It is an active and peaceful fish, ideal for community tanks.
This barb can reach 15 cm. Its silvery body has a round black spot at the base of the tail. The fins are transparent with yellowish reflections. It lives in schools and needs a group of at least 5. Omnivorous, it eats flakes, worms, and plant matter. Hardy and adaptable.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, hardness 5-15 dGH. A minimum 120-liter tank for a group. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Provide open swimming space and plants. Moderate filtration. Easy to keep, but beware of jumping (cover the tank).

##### [Spanner Barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-lateristriga)
**Barbus lateristriga** — Cyprinidae · fish
The Spanner Barb is a peaceful and active fish, recognizable by its dark vertical bars. It lives in schools and enjoys planted aquariums.
This barb reaches up to 12 cm. Its elongated body is silvery with 4 to 6 vertical black bars. The fins are slightly tinted red in males. It is a gregarious fish that requires conspecifics. It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods. Its active behavior makes it an excellent community fish.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, hardness 5-15 dGH. A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended for a group of 5. Diet should be varied: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Moderate filtration and standard lighting. Hiding spots and floating plants are appreciated. Hardy and easy to keep.

##### [Checker barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-oligolepis)
**Barbus oligolepis** — Cyprinidae · fish
Peaceful and colorful barb, perfect for community aquariums.
The Checker barb is a small barb from Sumatra. It reaches about 5 cm and has a checkerboard pattern on its sides. It is a schooling fish that should be kept in groups. It is hardy and adapts to various water conditions. Omnivorous, it accepts a wide range of foods.
Parameters: Temperature 22-27°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Group of 6+ in a tank of at least 80L. Neutral to slightly acidic water, good filtration. Feed with flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

##### [Five-banded Barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-pentazona)
**Barbus pentazona** — Cyprinidae · fish
Peaceful barb with a silvery body adorned with five vertical black bands. Ideal for planted community aquariums.
The Five-banded Barb grows to about 5 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, silvery with five distinct vertical black bands. The fins are transparent with sometimes a reddish tint. It is a schooling fish that lives in acidic waters. It is active but non-aggressive, unlike some of its cousins. It spends its time foraging at the bottom and mid-water. In the aquarium, it appreciates dense plants and shaded areas. Its coloration is more pronounced in males during breeding season.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature between 24 and 28°C, pH 5.0 to 7.0, GH 2 to 10. A minimum tank of 60 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Water should be soft and slightly acidic, enriched with tannins if possible. Feed with varied foods: flakes, pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp. This barb is peaceful and compatible with other similarly sized fish like rasboras and corydoras. Avoid aggressive barbs like the Tiger Barb. Regular water changes are important. Breeding is possible in soft acidic water with fine plants; eggs are scattered in open water.

##### [Tiger barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-tetrazona)
**Barbus tetrazona** — Cyprinidae · fish
Very popular barb, recognizable by its vertical black stripes. Active and hardy, but can be aggressive towards long-finned fish.
Tiger barb reaches 7 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, silvery to golden with four vertical black bands. The fins are red in males. It is a lively and gregarious fish that lives in schools. It may show fin-nipping behavior if not kept in a large enough group. It is very hardy and adapts to various conditions. Breeding is possible in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter aquarium is recommended for a group of 8 to 10 individuals. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A setup with robust plants and open swimming space is ideal. Omnivorous, accepts all types of food. Avoid keeping with long-finned or slow fish (gouramis, angelfish). A large group reduces aggression. It is a hardy fish suitable for beginners.

##### [Cherry barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-titteya)
**Barbus titteya** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small peaceful barb with bright red body, very popular in aquariums.
The Cherry barb is a schooling fish from Sri Lanka. Males display an intense cherry red color, especially during breeding. It reaches up to 5 cm. It prefers soft, slightly acidic water with dense vegetation. It is an excellent fish for peaceful community tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 23-27°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of 6+ in a tank of at least 60L. Soft water, gentle filtration, plenty of plants. Feed with flakes, small pellets, and live foods.

##### [Peaceful betta](/encyclopedia/betta-imbellis)
**Betta imbellis** — Osphronemidae · fish
Less aggressive betta than the fighting fish, with iridescent colors. Can live in groups in a suitable aquarium.
Betta imbellis grows 5-6 cm. Males have shorter fins than Betta splendens, but metallic blue-green colors. Females are duller. It is a labyrinth fish, less territorial than its cousin. It can be kept in pairs or small groups in a specific tank. It is shyer and appreciates hiding spots. Breeding is similar with a bubble nest.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 40-liter aquarium for a pair. Temperature 26-30°C, pH 5.0-6.5, very low hardness. A setup with roots, catappa leaves, and shade plants is essential. Carnivorous diet. Compatible with other small peaceful blackwater fish (rasboras, small corydoras). Avoid aggressive species. Breeding is possible in a specific tank with soft acidic water.

##### [Large-mouthed betta](/encyclopedia/betta-macrostoma)
**Betta macrostoma** — Osphronemidae · fish
Rare and threatened betta, recognizable by its large mouth and bright colors.
Betta macrostoma is a labyrinth fish endemic to Borneo. It is distinguished by its particularly large mouth and developed fins. Males are very colorful with red, blue, and green hues. It lives in acidic blackwater of peat swamps. In the aquarium, it requires very soft, acidic water, low light, and plenty of hiding places. It is territorial but less aggressive than Betta splendens.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 4-6, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
Species tank of at least 80L for a pair. Very soft water (GH < 5), pH 4.0-6.0, temperature 24-28°C. Gentle filtration, floating plants, hiding spots. Feed with live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp).

##### [Pugnax betta](/encyclopedia/betta-pugnax)
**Betta pugnax** — Osphronemidae · fish
A wild betta with a territorial nature but less aggressive than Betta splendens.
Betta pugnax is a labyrinth fish native to Southeast Asia. It grows up to 7 cm and has a brown to greenish coloration with metallic sheens. Males are more colorful and have longer fins. It inhabits calm, shallow waters, often in swamps and rice paddies. It is a bubble nest builder.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a tank of at least 60L with a lid for humid air. Soft to slightly acidic water, gentle filtration, floating plants and hiding spots. Feed with meaty foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, pellets). Avoid overly active tankmates.

##### [Emerald Betta](/encyclopedia/betta-smaragdina)
**Betta smaragdina** — Osphronemidae · fish
A beautiful labyrinth fish with emerald green colors, relatively peaceful for a Betta. It is appreciated for its interesting behavior and ease of breeding.
Betta smaragdina has an elongated, laterally compressed body, metallic emerald green with blue and red highlights. Males have longer, more colorful fins than females. It has a labyrinth organ allowing it to breathe atmospheric air. It reaches up to 7 cm. It is territorial but less aggressive than Betta splendens. It can be kept in pairs or groups in a sufficiently large tank. It builds a bubble nest for reproduction. It is curious and interactive.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 L for a pair, 100 L for a group. Calm water, low flow. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10. Floating plants and hiding spots essential. Diet: carnivorous, accepts pellets, flakes, bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia. Males are territorial, avoid multiple males in a small volume. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size (rasboras, small corydoras). Perform 20% weekly water changes. Lid required as they jump. Easy breeding in a species tank.

##### [Siamese fighting fish](/encyclopedia/betta-splendens)
**Betta splendens** — Osphronemidae · fish
Labyrinth fish with spectacular fins, known for male aggression towards each other. Very popular in aquaristics.
Betta splendens grows 6-7 cm. Males have long flowing fins in bright colors (red, blue, green, white). Females are smaller and duller. It has a labyrinth organ allowing it to breathe atmospheric air. It is territorial and aggressive towards other males. It can coexist with other peaceful species in a community tank. Breeding involves the male building a bubble nest.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
A minimum 20-liter aquarium for a single male, or 60 liters for a pair with other fish. Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low hardness. A planted setup with hiding spots and low current is ideal. Carnivorous diet: pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp. Do not keep two males together. Compatible with small peaceful fish (tetras, corydoras). Avoid long-finned or aggressive species.

##### [Peacock loach](/encyclopedia/botia-almorhae)
**Botia almorhae** — Cobitidae · fish
A colorful and active loach that lives in groups, requiring a large aquarium.
Botia almorhae, commonly known as the peacock loach, is a fish from the Cobitidae family native to the Indian subcontinent. It displays a pattern of dark spots on a golden to silvery background, with orange fins. It is a gregarious and very active species that spends its time sifting through the substrate in search of food. Its social behavior and liveliness make it a fascinating fish to watch.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 5 individuals. The aquarium should be spacious with fine sand substrate, hiding places, and moderate current. Water must be clean and well-oxygenated. Feed with varied foods: worms, crustaceans, pellets. Avoid overly calm or long-finned tankmates.

##### [Berdmore's loach](/encyclopedia/botia-berdmorei)
**Botia berdmorei** — Botiidae · fish
Berdmore's loach is a peaceful, schooling fish appreciated for its active behavior and colorful patterns. It requires a spacious aquarium with hiding places.
The body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a beige to light brown background marked by dark vertical bands and black spots. The fins are often tinted red or orange. The eyes are mobile and located high on the head. This species is very active and spends its time sifting through the substrate for food. It lives in groups and shows a social hierarchy. Individuals can produce audible sounds during stress or competition. Its lifespan can reach 10 years in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 18cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 200-liter aquarium is recommended for a group of 5-6 individuals. The substrate should be fine and non-abrasive to protect the barbels. Filtration must be efficient but with moderate flow. Ideal temperature is between 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, total hardness 5-12 dGH. It is omnivorous: accepts dry, frozen and live foods (bloodworms, artemia). Hiding places (rocks, roots, pipes) are essential. It is compatible with peaceful fish of similar size, but may stress very small species. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Weekly water changes of 20-30% are necessary.

##### [Kubotai Loach](/encyclopedia/botia-kubotai)
**Botia kubotai** — Botiidae · fish
The Kubotai Loach is a colorful freshwater fish from Thailand, recognizable by its black spots on a silvery background. It is active and lives in groups.
This fish has an elongated and laterally compressed body, with a silvery to golden base color. It is covered with many small black spots, especially on the anterior part of the body. The fins are translucent with black spots. It has four pairs of barbels. It reaches 8-10 cm in adulthood. It is a gregarious species that must be kept in groups of at least 5. It is very active and enjoys exploring the tank. Its behavior is peaceful, but it can be a bit boisterous with slow fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for a group of 5-6 Kubotai loaches. Ideal temperature is 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12. Fine sand substrate is important to protect their barbels. Hiding places (rocks, driftwood, plants) and moderate water flow are appreciated. They are omnivorous: accept dry, frozen, and live foods. Avoid very small or very calm tankmates. Regular water changes are necessary. Breeding in captivity is possible but rare.

##### [Yoyo Loach](/encyclopedia/botia-lohachata)
**Botia lohachata** — Botiidae · fish
The Yoyo Loach is an active and social freshwater fish from South Asia. It is recognizable by its yoyo-shaped patterns on the body.
This fish has an elongated and laterally compressed body, with a silvery to beige coloration dotted with irregular dark spots. The patterns often resemble the letters 'Y' or 'O', hence its common name. It has four pairs of barbels around the mouth. The fins are translucent with black spots. It is a gregarious species that lives in schools in the wild. It is very active and enjoys digging in the substrate for food. Its curious and playful behavior makes it a favorite among aquarists.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 200 liters is needed for a group of 5-6 individuals. Ideal temperature is between 24 and 28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12. Fine sand substrate is recommended to avoid injuring their barbels. Hiding places (rocks, driftwood, pipes) and moderate water flow are appreciated. They are omnivorous: accept dry, frozen, and live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp). Avoid overly calm or very small tankmates as they can be boisterous. They are sensitive to water quality; regular water changes are necessary.

##### [Clown loach](/encyclopedia/botia-macracantha)
**Botia macracantha** — Cobitidae · fish
The clown loach is a colorful and sociable fish, highly appreciated for its active behavior and orange and black patterns.
Botia macracantha can reach 30 cm in aquariums. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed. Coloration is bright orange with three broad vertical black bands. The fins are yellow with black. The mouth is downward-facing with four pairs of barbels. It is a gregarious fish that lives in groups. It is active during the day and likes to dig in the substrate. It can produce audible clicking sounds. It is sensitive to diseases if water quality is poor.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
A tank of at least 300 L is necessary for a group of 5-6 individuals. Water should be well oxygenated, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12, temperature 25-30°C. Moderate current is appreciated. Provide hiding places (rocks, roots, pipes). Omnivorous: give pellets, worms, vegetables. Avoid high nitrates. Sensitive to ich. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Beware of small fish that might be intimidated.

##### [Goldfish](/encyclopedia/carassius-auratus)
**Carassius auratus** — Cyprinidae · fish
The goldfish is one of the most popular aquarium fish in the world. Easy to keep, it comes in many colorful varieties.
Carassius auratus reaches 10-30 cm depending on variety. The body is stocky and laterally compressed. Coloration ranges from red-orange to white, black, calico or pearl. Many selected varieties exist: veiltail, lionhead, ranchu, oranda, bubble eye. It is a gregarious, hardy and cold-tolerant fish. It can live 10-20 years in ponds. It is omnivorous, accepting flakes, pellets, blanched vegetables and brine shrimp. It produces a lot of waste, requiring good filtration and a large volume.
Parameters: Temperature 10-24°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 8-25
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 150L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A pond or aquarium of at least 150 L for a small group, more for long-finned varieties. Cold water: 10-24°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 8-25. Strong filtration (goldfish are heavy waste producers). Hardy plants. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, small blanched vegetables. Avoid tropical tankmates that need heat. Very social, keep in groups. Plan a large volume for adult growth.

##### [Martha's Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-marthae)
**Carnegiella marthae** — Characidae · fish
Small hatchetfish with a silver body and developed pectoral fin, perfect for nano aquariums.
Carnegiella marthae grows up to 3.5 cm. Its body is deep and compressed, with a shiny silver line. The pectoral fins are large and allow it to glide. It is a schooling fish. It feeds on surface insects. In the aquarium, it is peaceful and active. It prefers acidic and soft water. Its small size makes it ideal for small volumes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
School of 6-10 individuals. Aquarium of at least 60L. Parameters: pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-10, KH 1-5, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: micro-flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Cover required. Floating plants and roots. Compatible with very small peaceful fish. Avoid larger species.

##### [Myers' Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-myersi)
**Carnegiella myersi** — Characidae · fish
Very small hatchetfish with a silvery body and a fine dark line, perfect for nano aquariums.
Myers' hatchetfish reaches only 2.5 to 3 cm. Its body is laterally compressed with a sharp belly. It is silvery with a dark horizontal line. Its pectoral fins are large. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in schools. It is very active at the surface. In the aquarium, it requires a lid. It feeds on insects and small invertebrates. Its small size makes it an excellent choice for small tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24 to 28°C, pH 6.0 to 7.0, soft GH (2-8°d). A tank of at least 40 liters is sufficient for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet is insectivorous: microworms, brine shrimp, fruit flies, and fine flakes. Filtration should be gentle. Subdued lighting and floating plants are recommended. A lid is essential. Avoid large fish. Breeding is rare in captivity, requiring very soft and acidic water.

##### [Scherer's Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-schereri)
**Carnegiella schereri** — Characidae · fish
Small silvery hatchetfish with a dark spot on the flank, very similar to Carnegiella myersi.
Scherer's hatchetfish reaches about 2.5 to 3 cm. Its body is laterally compressed with a sharp belly. It is silvery with a distinct dark spot on the flank, sometimes a line. Its pectoral fins are large. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in schools. It is very active at the surface. In the aquarium, it requires a lid. It feeds on insects and small crustaceans. It is often confused with Carnegiella myersi.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24 to 28°C, pH 6.0 to 7.0, soft GH (2-8°d). A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet is insectivorous: microworms, brine shrimp, fruit flies, and fine flakes. Filtration should be gentle. Subdued lighting and floating plants are ideal. A lid is mandatory. Avoid large fish. Breeding is rare in captivity, requiring very soft and acidic water.

##### [Marbled Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-strigata)
**Carnegiella strigata** — Characidae · fish
Small surface-dwelling fish with a compressed body, recognizable by its marbled brown and silver pattern.
The marbled hatchetfish reaches about 3 to 4 cm. Its body is tall and laterally compressed, with a sharp belly. It has a dark brown marbled pattern on a silvery background. Its pectoral fins are large and allow it to glide. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in schools. It is very active at the surface. In the aquarium, it needs a lid. It feeds on insects and small crustaceans. Its mouth is upturned.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24 to 28°C, pH 5.5 to 7.0, very soft GH (1-5°d). A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet is insectivorous: fruit flies, microworms, brine shrimp, and surface flakes. Filtration should be gentle. Subdued lighting and floating plants are ideal. A lid is mandatory. Avoid overly active fish. Breeding is difficult, requiring very acidic water and fine-leaved plants for spawning.

##### [Dwarf hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-vesca)
**Carnegiella vesca** — Characidae · fish
Small surface-dwelling fish with a laterally compressed hatchet-shaped body. Ideal for blackwater aquariums.
Carnegiella vesca is a small fish reaching up to 3 cm. Its body is strongly laterally compressed with large wing-like pectoral fins. It has a silvery coloration with bluish reflections and a dark horizontal line. It is a surface-dwelling fish that stays near the water surface. It can jump out of the water to catch insects. Its schooling behavior requires the presence of conspecifics. It is sensitive to water quality and prefers soft, acidic water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 60 liters with a large surface area. Water should be soft (GH 2-10) and acidic (pH 5.5-7.0) with a temperature of 24-28°C. A tight-fitting lid is essential as this fish jumps. The aquarium should be planted with floating plants to provide shaded areas. Diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine dry food. Compatible with other small peaceful blackwater fish. Schooling species, keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Clown loach](/encyclopedia/chromobotia-macracanthus)
**Chromobotia macracanthus** — Cobitidae · fish
A large iconic loach with orange and black pattern, very social but requiring a very large aquarium.
Chromobotia macracanthus, the clown loach, is one of the most popular aquarium fish. Native to Indonesia, it is recognized by its bright orange body crossed by three broad black bands. It is a gregarious fish that can reach 30 cm and live over 20 years. Its playful behavior and substrate-sifting habits make it a favorite among experienced aquarists.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Essential to keep in groups of at least 5. The aquarium must be very large (400 L minimum) with fine sand substrate, many hiding places, and moderate current. Water must be clean and stable. Feed with varied foods: worms, crustaceans, vegetables. Sensitive to diseases if stressed.

##### [Dwarf gourami](/encyclopedia/colisa-lalia)
**Colisa lalia** — Osphronemidae · fish
Small colorful gourami, very popular in aquaristics. Peaceful and suitable for small aquariums.
Dwarf gourami reaches 5-6 cm. Males are very colorful: vertical red and blue bands on an orange background. Females are silvery. The body is oval and compressed. It is a shy but active labyrinth fish. It lives in pairs or small groups. It is sensitive to diseases and water quality. Breeding involves a bubble nest.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 40-liter aquarium for a pair. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low hardness. A planted setup with hiding spots and low current is ideal. Omnivorous diet: flakes, fine pellets, live food. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly active species. Breeding is possible in a specific tank with floating plants.

##### [Bronze corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-aeneus)
**Corydoras aeneus** — Callichthyidae · fish
Small armored catfish, very popular for cleaning the bottom. Peaceful and gregarious.
Bronze corydoras grows 6-7 cm. Its body is stocky, covered with bony plates (armor). Coloration is bronze to metallic green on the back, lighter on the belly. It has sensory barbels around the mouth. It is a gregarious bottom fish that lives in groups. It is very active and sifts through the substrate for food. It is known for its hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium for a group of 5-6 individuals. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A fine sand substrate is essential to avoid damaging barbels. A setup with hiding spots and moderate current is appreciated. Omnivorous, accepts bottom tablets, worms, and flakes. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly large species.

##### [Venezuela Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-aeneus-venezuela)
**Corydoras aeneus Venezuela** — Callichthyidae · fish
Small armored catfish, peaceful and gregarious, perfect for community tanks. Geographic variant of Corydoras aeneus.
Corydoras aeneus Venezuela reaches 6-7 cm. Its body is stocky, covered with bony plates, with a bronze to metallic green base color. A dark longitudinal stripe runs along the flanks. The fins are translucent. It is a gregarious bottom-dweller that lives in groups of at least 6. It is very active during the day, sifting through the substrate for food. It is completely peaceful and compatible with most fish. Its reproduction is relatively easy in the aquarium, with a characteristic courtship display.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 60 liters for a group of 6. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-5. Omnivorous diet: bottom-feeder tablets, worms, brine shrimp, vegetables. Decor with fine sand (avoid sharp gravel), roots, plants. Moderate filtration. Compatible with tetras, rasboras, guppies, other corydoras. Weekly water changes of 20%. Breeding triggered by a cool water change.

##### [Dwarf Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-habrosus)
**Corydoras habrosus** — Callichthyidae · fish
The Dwarf Corydoras is one of the smallest corydoras, perfect for nano aquariums. It is very peaceful and lives in groups.
This fish reaches only 2–3 cm. Its body is stocky with a light beige to gray coloration, marked with small dark spots and a black lateral band. Fins are transparent. It has short barbels. It is a schooling fish that must be kept in groups of at least 6. It is very active during the day and sifts through the substrate. It reproduces by laying eggs on plants or glass. Fry are very small and difficult to raise. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 30-liter tank is sufficient for a group. Ideal temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Substrate should be fine and non-abrasive. Diet must be suitable for its small size: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. This fish is very peaceful and can coexist with other small species like rasboras or shrimp. Keep in groups of at least 6. Frequent water changes and good oxygenation are needed. Avoid larger or aggressive fish.

##### [Dwarf corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-hastatus)
**Corydoras hastatus** — Callichthyidae · fish
A tiny spotted corydoras, very active and gregarious.
Corydoras hastatus is a small catfish about 2.5 cm. Its body is beige with dark spots and a black band on the tail. It is very social and must live in a group. It enjoys planted tanks with a soft substrate. It is an excellent bottom cleaner.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 30L, sandy substrate, plants and roots. Group of 6+ individuals. Soft to slightly acidic water, gentle filtration. Varied diet: micro pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Regular water changes.

##### [Peppered Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-paleatus)
**Corydoras paleatus** — Callichthyidae · fish
The Peppered Corydoras is a peaceful, schooling bottom-dweller, very popular in the hobby. It is recognized by its marbled pattern and barbels.
This fish has a stocky, armored body with a beige to gray base color covered in irregular dark spots. It has three pairs of sensory barbels around the mouth. Fins are transparent with some black spots. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups and spends its time sifting through the substrate for food. It is very peaceful and compatible with most community fish. Reproduction occurs by laying eggs on hard surfaces; eggs are adhesive. Parents do not care for the eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter tank is recommended for a group of 5–6. Ideal temperature 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Substrate should be fine and smooth to protect barbels. Provide a varied diet: sinking tablets, bloodworms, brine shrimp. This fish is very peaceful and can coexist with tetras, rasboras, peaceful gouramis. Keep in groups of at least 5. Regular water changes are important. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish.

##### [Panda corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-panda)
**Corydoras panda** — Callichthyidae · fish
Small catfish with a black and white pattern reminiscent of a panda. Highly appreciated for its beauty and peaceful behavior.
Panda corydoras grows 4-5 cm. Its body is cream white with black spots: one around the eyes (mask), one on the dorsal fin, and one at the tail base. The body is stocky and armored. It is a gregarious bottom fish, very active. It is more sensitive than the bronze corydoras. It prefers cooler, well-oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 50-liter aquarium for a group of 5-6 individuals. Temperature 22-26°C (avoid high temperatures), pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A fine sand substrate is mandatory. A setup with roots and plants, along with good current, is recommended. Omnivorous, accepts bottom tablets and small prey. Compatible with small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species or overly warm temperatures.

##### [Pygmy corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-pygmaeus)
**Corydoras pygmaeus** — Callichthyidae · fish
A very popular small catfish, ideal for nano-aquariums in groups.
Corydoras pygmaeus is one of the smallest corydoras, barely reaching 3 cm. Its body is silvery with a horizontal black stripe. It lives in schools and spends its time sifting the substrate for food. It is a peaceful and hardy fish, perfect for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 30L, sandy substrate, plants and hiding spots. Group of 6 minimum. Soft to neutral water, gentle filtration. Varied diet: sinking pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Schwartz's Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-schwartzi)
**Corydoras schwartzi** — Callichthyidae · fish
Schwartz's Corydoras is a small peaceful catfish from Brazil. It is highly valued in community aquariums for its schooling behavior and spotted pattern.
This corydoras has a stout, armored body with a beige to gray coloration covered in irregular black spots. A dark stripe runs through the eye and extends to the dorsal fin. The fins are translucent with black dots. It has sensory barbels around the mouth. Like all corydoras, it occasionally breathes at the surface using its vascularized intestine. It is a schooling species that lives in groups of 5 or more. It is active during the day and forages through the substrate for food.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep a group of at least 5 individuals in a tank of at least 60 liters. A fine sand substrate is essential to protect their barbels. Ideal temperature is 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15. They accept a varied diet: sinking pellets, bottom feeder tablets, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Avoid strong currents. Corydoras are very peaceful and compatible with most small fish. Gentle filtration and regular water changes are recommended. They spawn on glass or plants, and eggs hatch in 3–5 days.

##### [Sodalis Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-sodalis)
**Corydoras sodalis** — Callichthyidae · fish
Sodalis Corydoras is a small, discreet catfish from the Amazon basin. It is distinguished by its spotted pattern and peaceful behavior.
This corydoras has a stout, armored body, beige to light gray with small black spots scattered over the body and head. A dark stripe crosses the eye. The fins are transparent with a few black dots. It has well-developed barbels. Like other corydoras, it can breathe air at the surface. It is a schooling species that lives in groups. It is less active than some relatives but remains a good forager. Its modest size makes it an excellent choice for nano tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep a group of at least 5 in a 50L minimum tank. Fine sand substrate is essential. Temperature 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15. Diet: fine granules, tablets, brine shrimp, daphnia. They are very peaceful and compatible with small fish like tetras or rasboras. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Gentle filtration and regular water changes are recommended. Breeding is similar to other corydoras, with spawning on glass.

##### [Sterba's corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-sterbai)
**Corydoras sterbai** — Callichthyidae · fish
Sterba's corydoras is a small armored catfish very popular in aquariums, recognizable by its black spots on a light background.
Corydoras sterbai grows up to 6 cm. Its body is stocky, covered with bony plates. The base color is beige to light orange with irregular black spots. The fins are translucent with black stripes. It has sensory barbels around the mouth. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in schools. It can breathe atmospheric air through its vascularized intestine. Its substrate-sifting behavior is typical of Corydoras.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 5 individuals in a tank of at least 80 L. Water should be soft (GH 3-8), acidic (pH 6.0-6.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. A fine sand substrate is essential to protect their barbels. Provide hiding places (roots, plants). They are omnivorous: accept pellets, tablets, bloodworms, artemia. Avoid strong currents. Sensitive to nitrates, keep NO3 < 10 mg/L. Compatible with most small peaceful fish.

##### [Koi](/encyclopedia/cyprinus-carpio)
**Cyprinus carpio** — Cyprinidae · fish
The koi is the Japanese ornamental variety of the common carp, prized in ornamental ponds for its spectacular patterns.
Cyprinus carpio reaches 40-80 cm and up to 30 kg. The body is massive, with large scales and a pair of barbels on the lips. Wild color is bronze-greenish; koi varieties show spectacular white, red, black and blue patterns. It is an omnivorous, burrowing fish that stirs the substrate. It is very hardy, lives 20-50 years. The Japanese koi is the most sought-after ornamental variety, kept in deep, well-filtered ponds. It is gregarious and calm.
Parameters: Temperature 4-25°C, pH 7-8, GH 8-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 3000L, Size 60cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Koi require a large pond (minimum 2-3 m³ for a small group, ideally more) with strong biological and mechanical filtration. Cold water: 4-25°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 8-20. Minimum depth 1 m for overwintering. Omnivorous: specific koi pellets, vegetables, fruit. Do not overstock (1 koi per m³). Protection against herons and cats. Excellent longevity but slow growth.

##### [Pearl danio](/encyclopedia/danio-albolineatus)
**Danio albolineatus** — Cyprinidae · fish
A small active and peaceful fish, recognizable by its iridescent blue-green lateral line. Ideal for community aquariums.
Danio albolineatus, the pearl danio, is a cyprinid from Southeast Asia. It reaches 5-6 cm. Its body is silvery with a metallic blue-green lateral band and golden highlights. The fins are often tinted yellow or red. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups in the wild. It is very active and enjoys moderate currents. In the aquarium, it is easy to keep and breeds readily.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Soft to moderately hard water (pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, KH 3-8) at 22-26°C. A minimum 60-liter tank with good flow and plants. Perform 20% weekly water changes. Feed with flakes, micro pellets, and brine shrimp. Keep a group of at least 6. It is a peaceful fish that coexists with other small fish.

##### [Glowlight Danio](/encyclopedia/danio-choprae)
**Danio choprae** — Cyprinidae · fish
Very small danio with orange highlights, peaceful and ideal for nano-aquariums. Its bright color lights up the tank.
The Glowlight Danio reaches only 3 cm. Its body is translucent with a bright orange horizontal stripe that glows under good lighting. The fins are colorless. It lives in schools in mountain streams. It is a very active and schooling fish, swimming mainly at the surface. It is extremely peaceful and can be kept with other small species. Its small size allows it to be housed in small volumes. It is sensitive to water parameters, especially quality.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature between 22 and 26°C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, GH 5 to 12. A 40-liter tank is sufficient for a group of 8 to 10 individuals. Water must be clean and well oxygenated. Feed with micro-foods: infusoria, brine shrimp nauplii, crushed flakes. This fish is very peaceful and compatible with dwarf shrimp and micro-rasboras. Avoid larger or aggressive fish. Regular water changes are crucial. Breeding is possible in soft water with fine plants; eggs are non-adhesive.

##### [Kerr's danio](/encyclopedia/danio-kerri)
**Danio kerri** — Cyprinidae · fish
A colorful danio with blue and gold stripes, very active and easy to breed. Perfect for planted aquariums.
Danio kerri, Kerr's danio, is a small cyprinid from Southeast Asia. It reaches 5-6 cm. Its body is silvery with bright blue and gold horizontal stripes, and its fins are often yellow. Males are more colorful than females. It is a schooling fish that swims in the upper and middle layers. It is very hardy and adapts to various conditions. In the aquarium, it is active and peaceful.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Soft to moderately hard water (pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, KH 3-8) at 22-26°C. A minimum 60-liter tank with plants and open swimming space. Perform 20% weekly water changes. Feed with flakes, fine granules, and live or frozen foods. Keep a group of at least 6. It is an excellent fish for beginners.

##### [Celestial pearl danio](/encyclopedia/danio-margaritatus)
**Danio margaritatus** — Cyprinidae · fish
The celestial pearl danio is a recently discovered small fish, highly appreciated for its bright colors and peaceful behavior. It is ideal for nano-aquariums.
Danio margaritatus has a stocky body, dark blue with golden spots and red fins. Males are more colorful than females. It reaches up to 2.5 cm. It is a schooling and shy fish that lives in groups. It is very sensitive to water quality. It reproduces by spawning on fine-leaved plants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 L for a school of 8 to 10 individuals. Acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0-7.0), very soft (GH 2-6), temperature 22-26°C. A planted setup with shaded areas and a dark substrate is ideal. They are omnivorous: micro-foods, artemia, daphnia. Avoid strong currents. They are peaceful fish, to be kept with other small calm species. Breeding is possible but delicate.

##### [Spotted Danio](/encyclopedia/danio-nigrofasciatus)
**Danio nigrofasciatus** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small danio with a silvery body dotted with black spots, very active and easy to keep. Perfect for beginners.
The Spotted Danio grows to about 4 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, silvery with a series of black spots aligned along the flanks. The fins are translucent. It is a schooling fish that swims at the surface and mid-water. It is very lively and curious, constantly exploring its environment. In a group, it shows hierarchy behaviors. Its small size makes it ideal for nano-aquariums. It is hardy and adapts to various water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature between 22 and 26°C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, GH 5 to 12. A tank of at least 40 liters is sufficient for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Water must be well filtered and oxygenated. Feed with fine flakes, micro-pellets, and live foods like daphnia. This fish is peaceful and compatible with other small fish such as tetras or corydoras. Avoid slow-moving or long-finned species that may be stressed. Weekly water changes of 20% are recommended. Breeding is easy: eggs are scattered among plants.

##### [Zebrafish](/encyclopedia/danio-rerio)
**Danio rerio** — Cyprinidae · fish
The zebrafish is a small freshwater fish very popular in aquariums and scientific research. It is easy to keep.
Danio rerio has an elongated, fusiform body with horizontal blue and silver stripes. It reaches up to 4 cm. It is a schooling and active fish that swims in groups. It is very hardy and adapts to various conditions. It breeds easily in the aquarium. Genetically modified varieties (GloFish) exist.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 60 L for a school of 6 to 10 individuals. Neutral to slightly alkaline water (pH 6.5-7.5), soft to moderately hard (GH 5-15), temperature 22-26°C. They are omnivorous: accept flakes, pellets, artemia, and daphnia. A setup with plants and open swimming space is suitable. They are peaceful fish, compatible with many species. Breeding is simple: they spawn on a moss substrate.

##### [Clown killifish](/encyclopedia/epiplatys-annulatus)
**Epiplatys annulatus** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Small colorful killifish with banded body, ideal for nano tanks.
Epiplatys annulatus is a small fish from the Nothobranchiidae family, native to West Africa. It reaches about 3 cm. Its body is elongated with dark vertical bands on a light background, hence the name 'annulatus'. Males are more colorful with elongated fins. It is a peaceful surface-dwelling fish that lives in groups. It is highly appreciated in aquariums for its small size and colors.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 30 liters, with gentle filtration and floating plants. Acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0-7.0), temperature 24-28°C. Fine food: brine shrimp, microworms, flakes. Surface dweller, provide a clear surface area. Keep in groups of 6+.

##### [False killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-fallax)
**Fundulopanchax fallax** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
A medium-sized killifish, easy to keep, with a variable color pattern. It is appreciated for its hardiness and simple breeding.
Fundulopanchax fallax reaches up to 8 cm. Males are blue-green with red spots and yellow fins, females are light brown. Its body is slender and laterally compressed. It has a lyre-shaped caudal fin in dominant males. It is an active fish that explores all levels of the aquarium. It is generally peaceful but males can be slightly territorial. Its peculiarity is its ability to adapt to a wide range of parameters. It breeds easily on Java moss.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15, KH 1–8. A 40-liter tank minimum is suitable for a pair or small group. Accepts dry, frozen and live foods. Compatible with other peaceful fish. A lid is recommended. Plant the aquarium densely with open areas. Gentle to moderate filtration. Breeding is easy: eggs are laid on plants and hatch in 12–16 days.

##### [Filament killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-filamentosus)
**Fundulopanchax filamentosus** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Elegant killifish with elongated fins, ideal for planted aquariums. It is peaceful and easy to breed.
Fundulopanchax filamentosus reaches up to 7 cm. Males have greatly elongated dorsal, anal and caudal fins, hence their name. Their coloration is blue-green with red spots and golden reflections. Females are smaller and less colorful. The body is slender and compressed. It is a surface fish that enjoys shaded areas. It is very peaceful, even among males. Its peculiarity is the presence of filaments on the fins of males. It breeds by laying eggs on fine-leaved plants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15, KH 1–8. A 40-liter tank minimum is recommended. Accepts dry, frozen and live foods. Compatible with peaceful small fish. A lid is necessary. Plant densely with fine-leaved plants (Java moss, Cabomba). Gentle filtration to avoid damaging the fins. Breeding is simple: eggs hatch in 10–14 days.

##### [Gardner's killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-gardneri)
**Fundulopanchax gardneri** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Gardner's killifish is an annual or semi-annual fish, with variable colors depending on populations, very adaptable.
Fundulopanchax gardneri reaches 6-8 cm. The male is colored blue, green, yellow and red depending on locality. The fins are large and often edged with white. The female is smaller and dull. It is a surface and mid-water fish. It is less aggressive than other killies. It can live more than a year in aquariums. It jumps easily, hence a lid is necessary. It is omnivorous with carnivorous tendency.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of 40-60 L for a pair or small group. Water should be soft (GH 3-8), acidic to neutral (pH 6.5-7.0), temperature 24-28°C. A gentle filter. Floating plants and moss appreciated. Carnivorous: artemia, daphnia, small worms. Compatible with other small peaceful fish (rasboras, corydoras) but avoid overly active species. Easy reproduction: spawn on plants or moss, eggs can be collected. No mandatory diapause.

##### [Nigerian Killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-nigerianus)
**Fundulopanchax nigerianus** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
The Nigerian Killifish is a small, brightly colored fish highly prized by specialized aquarists. It requires soft, acidic water and live food.
Fundulopanchax nigerianus reaches about 5 cm. Males display a complex pattern of red, blue and yellow spots on a brownish-green background. Females are duller. This killifish is a bottom-dweller that enjoys dense vegetation. It is known for its ability to jump out of the water. In the aquarium it is peaceful but can be shy. Reproduction occurs by spawning on peat substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
Keep this killifish in a minimum 40 L tank with a tight lid. Water should be soft (GH 5-15, KH 2-8), acidic (pH 6.0-7.0) and at 22-26°C. Gentle filtration is recommended. Provide a varied diet of live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms). Plant the aquarium densely with mosses and roots. Avoid aggressive or overly active tankmates. A pair or small group is ideal. Perform 20% weekly water changes.

##### [Scheel's Killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-scheeli)
**Fundulopanchax scheeli** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Scheel's Killifish is an elegant fish with metallic sheen, appreciated for its ease of breeding. It inhabits soft, acidic waters of West African forests.
Fundulopanchax scheeli reaches 5-6 cm. Males have an iridescent blue-green body with red spots on the flanks. Fins are edged in yellow. Females are light brown. This killifish is active and curious, yet peaceful. It prefers calm, shaded areas. In the aquarium it breeds readily on peat substrate. It can be kept as a pair or in a small group.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.2, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 40 L tank with a lid is required. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 5-15, KH 2-8), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.2) and at 22-26°C. Gentle filtration and dense vegetation are recommended. Feed live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms). Avoid overly active fish. Perform 20% weekly water changes. Breeding is facilitated by a peat substrate.

##### [Sjöstedt's killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-sjoestedti)
**Fundulopanchax sjoestedti** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
A large, peaceful killifish with subtle colors, suitable for community tanks. It enjoys soft, slightly acidic water.
Fundulopanchax sjoestedti can reach 10 cm, making it one of the largest killifish. Its body is elongated and robust, with a long dorsal fin. Males are blue-green with red spots, females are brown-yellow. It has a terminal mouth and large eyes. It is a calm fish that swims throughout the water column. It is less territorial than Nothobranchius. Its peculiarity is that it can live several years in an aquarium. It reproduces by laying eggs on plants or moss.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15, KH 1–8. A 60-liter tank minimum is recommended for a group. Accepts dry foods but prefers live or frozen prey. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. A lid is necessary as it may jump. Plant densely and leave open areas. Filtration should be moderate. Breeding is easy: eggs hatch in 10–14 days without diapause.

##### [Cambodian Garra](/encyclopedia/garra-cambodgiensis)
**Garra cambodgiensis** — Cyprinidae · fish
A small peaceful bottom-dweller, ideal for Asian community aquariums. It feeds on algae and micro-invertebrates.
Garra cambodgiensis has an elongated, fusiform body, silvery-grey with a dark longitudinal stripe. Its sucker-like mouth allows it to cling to rocks in currents. Fins are translucent with occasional orange highlights. It reaches up to 10 cm. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools in the wild. It is very active and constantly sifts through the substrate for food. Its behavior is peaceful, but it can become territorial with conspecifics if space is insufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 5 in a tank of 100 L or more. Water must be well-oxygenated with moderate to strong flow. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15. Fine sand or rounded gravel substrate is recommended. Add smooth rocks and driftwood to mimic its natural habitat. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, pellets, and appreciates algae wafers. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid very slow or long-finned species. Perform 20-30% weekly water changes.

##### [Panda garra](/encyclopedia/garra-flavatra)
**Garra flavatra** — Cyprinidae · fish
The panda garra is a small colorful fish, recognizable by its black and white markings. It is active and enjoys strong currents.
Garra flavatra reaches 6–8 cm. Its body is elongated, with a white to yellowish background marked with broad vertical black bands, reminiscent of a panda. The mouth is sucker-shaped. It has transparent fins. It is a very active fish that spends its time grazing algae on rocks. It is gregarious and must be kept in groups. It is peaceful but can be lively. In the aquarium, it requires strong current and highly oxygenated water. It is sensitive to organic pollution.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium is sufficient for a small group, but a larger volume is preferable. Water should be cool and well oxygenated: temperature 20–26 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15, KH 3–10. Strong current is essential, achieved with a circulation pump. Substrate can be gravel or pebbles. Add many smooth rocks for grazing. Feed with algae, blanched spinach, pellets, and frozen foods. Change 30% water weekly. Avoid slow or bottom-dwelling fish. Breeding is difficult in captivity.

##### [Gotyla Garra](/encyclopedia/garra-gotyla)
**Garra gotyla** — Cyprinidae · fish
A robust bottom-dweller adapted to fast waters. Often used for algae control in aquariums.
Garra gotyla has an elongated, slightly compressed body, brownish to grey-green with irregular dark spots. Its sucker mouth is highly developed. It has sensory barbels. Fins are robust, caudal slightly forked. It reaches 12 cm. It is a gregarious fish living in schools in current zones. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm. It is very active and may jump, requiring a lid.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 120 L with strong current and good oxygenation. Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15. Fine gravel or sand substrate. Decorate with smooth stones and driftwood. Omnivorous with herbivorous tendency: offer algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and protein foods. Keep in groups of 5 or more. Compatible with current-loving fish like Danios or Rasboras. Avoid slow or long-finned fish. Perform 25% weekly water changes.

##### [Mullya Garra](/encyclopedia/garra-mullya)
**Garra mullya** — Cyprinidae · fish
A medium-sized Garra species, very hardy and easy to keep. It is appreciated for its active behavior and cleaning role.
Garra mullya has an elongated, cylindrical body, grey-brown with golden highlights. A dark horizontal stripe is often present. Its sucker mouth is wide. Fins are transparent with dark rays. It can reach 15 cm. It is a gregarious fish living in schools. It is very active and spends time grazing surfaces. It can be territorial towards other Garra if space is limited. It adapts to various water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 150 L for a group. Well-oxygenated water with moderate current. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.8, GH 5-20. Sand or fine gravel substrate. Rocks and driftwood for decoration. Omnivorous: accepts flakes, pellets, algae wafers, vegetables. Also offer bloodworms or brine shrimp. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid very calm or long-finned species. Perform 30% weekly water changes. Jumping risk, lid required.

##### [Nose Garra](/encyclopedia/garra-nasuta)
**Garra nasuta** — Cyprinidae · fish
A Garra with a prominent snout, very active and specialized in algae grazing. It requires strong current.
Garra nasuta is distinguished by its elongated, fleshy snout, giving it a unique appearance. Body is elongated, silvery-grey with dark spots. The sucker mouth is located under the snout. Fins are large and powerful. It reaches 12 cm. It is a gregarious fish living in schools in current zones. It feeds exclusively on algae and biofilm. It is very active and can be aggressive towards other Garra if space is insufficient. It needs very clean, oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 120 L with strong current (powerhead recommended). Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15. Sand or fine gravel substrate. Decorate with large smooth stones and wood. Diet: algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and occasional protein foods. Keep in groups of 5 or more. Compatible with current-loving fish like Danios, Rasboras, or other Garra. Avoid slow fish. Perform 30% weekly water changes. Lid mandatory.

##### [Doctor fish](/encyclopedia/garra-rufa)
**Garra rufa** — Cyprinidae · fish
The doctor fish, also known as Garra rufa, is a freshwater fish famous for its cleaning behavior. It is hardy and easy to keep.
Garra rufa reaches up to 15 cm. Its body is elongated, slightly compressed, with a gray-brown to olive coloration, sometimes with lighter spots. The mouth is sucker-shaped, adapted for grazing algae and debris. It has a pair of barbels. It is an active fish that enjoys moderate current. It is known to feed on dead skin, hence its use in pedicure. In the aquarium, it is peaceful but can become territorial with conspecifics. It lives in groups and requires good oxygenation.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter aquarium is recommended for a group. Water must be well oxygenated with moderate current. Parameters: temperature 20–28 °C, pH 6.5–8.0, GH 5–20, KH 5–15. A gravel or coarse sand substrate is suitable. Add smooth rocks and roots. Feed with algae, blanched vegetables, pellets, and frozen foods. Change 25% water weekly. Avoid very slow or long-finned fish. Breeding is possible in aquariums with appropriate current and temperature conditions.

##### [Silver Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/gasteropelecus-levis)
**Gasteropelecus levis** — Characidae · fish
Small silver hatchetfish with a laterally compressed body, ideal for peaceful community aquariums.
Gasteropelecus levis grows up to 3.5 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, with enlarged pectoral fins that allow it to jump out of the water. It has a shiny silver stripe on the flank. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups. It feeds mainly on surface insects. In the aquarium, it is peaceful and active. Its surface swimming is characteristic.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a school of at least 6 individuals. Aquarium of at least 60L with open surface area. Parameters: pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-15, KH 1-10, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Sensitive to nitrates (max 20 mg/L). Provide a tight cover as it jumps. Floating plants appreciated. Compatible with other small peaceful fish.

##### [Spotted Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/gasteropelecus-maculatus)
**Gasteropelecus maculatus** — Characidae · fish
Silver hatchetfish with dark spots, active at the surface and easy to keep in groups.
Gasteropelecus maculatus reaches 5 cm. Its body is deep and compressed, with irregular black spots. The pectoral fins are large. It is a schooling fish. It feeds on insects and small crustaceans. In the aquarium, it is peaceful and active. It prefers slightly acidic water. Its surface swimming is fast.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
School of at least 6 individuals. Aquarium of at least 80L. Parameters: pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-15, KH 1-10, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: flakes, small insects, brine shrimp. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Cover required. Floating plants and open areas. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Silver Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/gasteropelecus-sternicla)
**Gasteropelecus sternicla** — Characidae · fish
Surface-dwelling fish with a laterally compressed body, capable of gliding out of the water to catch insects.
The silver hatchetfish reaches up to 7 cm. Its body is strongly compressed laterally with a sharp belly. It has large pectoral fins that allow it to jump out of the water. Its coloration is silvery with a dark horizontal line. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools near the surface. It is peaceful but can be nervous. In the aquarium, it requires a tight-fitting lid to prevent jumping. It feeds mainly on insects at the surface. Its mouth is upturned.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature between 24 and 28°C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, soft GH (2-10°d). A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet should be rich in insects: fruit flies, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and surface flakes. Filtration should be gentle to avoid strong currents. Subdued lighting and floating plants are appreciated. A lid is essential. Avoid aggressive bottom-dwellers. Breeding is rare in captivity, requiring very acidic water and fine-leaved plants.

##### [Red Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/glossolepis-incisus)
**Glossolepis incisus** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Rainbowfish with bright red body in males, very popular in aquariums. Peaceful and active.
Glossolepis incisus can reach up to 15 cm. Adult males are intense red with silvery reflections, while females are gray-silver. The body is deep and laterally compressed. This species is schooling and requires a large swimming space. It is very active and may jump, so a lid is important. Its reproduction is typical of rainbowfish, spawning on plants. It lives about 6-8 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15. Minimum 200 liters for a group of 6. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, worms, brine shrimp. Weekly 20-30% water changes. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Provide a long tank (120 cm) for swimming. Decorate with robust plants and rocks. Avoid territorial species. Strong filtration is recommended.

##### [Wanam Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/glossolepis-wanamensis)
**Glossolepis wanamensis** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Rare and endangered rainbowfish, endemic to Lake Wanam. Highly prized by aquarists for its beauty.
Glossolepis wanamensis reaches about 10 cm. Males are colored red, orange, and blue, with a dark lateral band. Females are silvery. This species is schooling and lives near the surface. It is threatened by introduced exotic species in its native lake. In the aquarium, it is sensitive to water quality. Its reproduction is similar to other rainbowfish, spawning on fine plants.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12. Minimum 150 liters for a group of 6. Varied diet: small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Frequent water changes (20% twice weekly) to maintain very clean water. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly active species. Decorate with fine plants and shaded areas. This species is more delicate than other rainbowfish, requiring stable water conditions.

##### [Black skirt tetra](/encyclopedia/gymnocorymbus-ternetzi)
**Gymnocorymbus ternetzi** — Characidae · fish
The black skirt tetra is a very common freshwater fish, recognizable by its large black dorsal fin and silvery body.
It reaches about 6 cm. Its body is silvery with a gray tint, and the dorsal, anal and caudal fins are black. Long-finned varieties exist. A schooling fish, peaceful but may be slightly territorial with conspecifics. Hardy and easy to keep.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, moderate hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a school of 6. Water can be neutral to slightly acidic. Décor with plants and hiding spots. Diet: flakes, pellets, live foods. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid long-finned species (risk of fin nipping).

##### [Bellott's Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-bellottii)
**Hemigrammus bellottii** — Characidae · fish
Bellott's Tetra is a small discreet fish with a silvery body and slightly tinted caudal fin. It lives in schools in Amazonian blackwaters.
This tetra reaches about 3.5 cm. Its body is elongated, silvery with greenish reflections. A fine dark line runs along the flank. The caudal fin is hyaline with a slight yellowish tint. It is less colorful than other tetras but has a discreet elegance. It swims in schools and occupies the mid-water. It is a peaceful and shy species that appreciates heavily planted aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 3.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 6 in a minimum 50-liter tank. Water should be soft and acidic (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-10). Temperature 23-28°C. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting are preferable. Omnivorous, accepts micro-foods. Provide hiding places with plants and roots. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid lively or aggressive species. Breeding is possible in very soft acidic water.

##### [Rummy-nose tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-bleheri)
**Hemigrammus bleheri** — Characidae · fish
The rummy-nose tetra is recognizable by its bright red head and black-and-white striped tail.
It reaches about 5 cm. The head is red, the body silvery, and the caudal fin has black and white bands. A very active schooling fish. Sensitive to water quality: polluted water causes the red to fade. Peaceful and ideal in a school.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, low hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a school of 10. Water must be very clean with efficient filtration. Dense planting and moderate lighting. Diet: small live or frozen foods, quality flakes. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid stressful tankmates.

##### [Glowlight tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-erythrozonus)
**Hemigrammus erythrozonus** — Characidae · fish
The glowlight tetra is named for a luminous orange stripe running across its body.
It reaches about 4 cm. Its body is translucent with an iridescent orange stripe from snout to tail. Fins are colorless. A schooling, peaceful and active fish. Less demanding than other tetras. Males are more colorful.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 23–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, low to moderate hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a school of 8. Water can be slightly acidic to neutral. Dense planting and subdued lighting. Diet: flakes, small pellets, brine shrimp. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Very hardy.

##### [January Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-hyanuary)
**Hemigrammus hyanuary** — Characidae · fish
The January Tetra is a small peaceful fish with a silvery body and reddish caudal fin. It lives in schools in the blackwaters of the Amazon.
This tetra reaches about 4 cm in adulthood. Its body is elongated and slightly laterally compressed, with a silvery hue and bluish reflections. The caudal fin has a characteristic orange-red coloration. A faint dark lateral line is sometimes visible. It is very active and swims in tight schools. In the aquarium, it usually stays in the mid-water zone. It is a hardy and easy-to-keep species.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this tetra in a group of at least 6 individuals in a minimum 60-liter tank. Water should be soft and acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15). Ideal temperature is between 23 and 28°C. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting are recommended. Diet is omnivorous: accepts flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Avoid strong currents. Plant the aquarium densely with open swimming areas. It is a peaceful fish compatible with other small tetras, corydoras, and rasboras.

##### [Lueling's Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-luelingi)
**Hemigrammus luelingi** — Characidae · fish
Small peaceful tetra with silvery reflections, ideal for freshwater community aquariums.
Lueling's tetra reaches about 3 to 4 cm. Its body is elongated and silvery with a slight golden hue. It has a characteristic black spot on the dorsal fin. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools. It is very active and peaceful, making it an excellent companion for other small fish. In the aquarium, it appreciates acidic and soft water. Its caudal fin is forked. It is often confused with other Hemigrammus species.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 23 to 28°C and a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. General hardness (GH) should be below 10°d. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a school of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet is omnivorous: accepts flakes, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp. Provide gentle filtration and subdued lighting. Floating plants and leaf litter create a reassuring environment. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates. Breeding in captivity is possible but tricky, requiring very soft and acidic water.

##### [Margined Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-marginatus)
**Hemigrammus marginatus** — Characidae · fish
The Margined Tetra is a small silvery fish with a dark horizontal stripe and transparent fins. It lives in schools in South American freshwaters.
This tetra reaches about 4 cm. Its body is slender, silvery, with a well-defined black stripe from the eye to the caudal base. The fins are hyaline, sometimes slightly tinted yellow. It has a small black spot on the caudal peduncle. It is an active swimmer occupying the mid-water. It is gregarious and requires a group. Its peaceful behavior makes it an excellent community fish.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 6 in a 60-liter tank. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-12), pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 22-28°C. Moderate filtration and subdued lighting are suitable. Omnivorous, accepts dry and frozen foods. Enjoys a planted aquarium with open areas. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly large species. Breeding is possible in a specific tank with soft acidic water.

##### [Head-and-tail-light tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-ocellifer)
**Hemigrammus ocellifer** — Characidae · fish
Small silvery tetra recognizable by its two light spots (eye and tail). Peaceful schooling fish for community tanks.
The head-and-tail-light tetra (Hemigrammus ocellifer) is a small characid reaching up to 5 cm. Its body is silvery with a dark lateral stripe. It has two characteristic reflective spots: one on the eye and one at the base of the caudal fin, hence its name. It is a very peaceful schooling fish, ideal in groups of 6 to 10. It adapts well to various water parameters and enjoys a planted tank.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 L. Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15. Prefers moderate lighting and plants. Diet: flakes, micro pellets, small live foods. Regular water changes. Hardy fish for beginners.

##### [Rummy-nose tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-rhodostomus)
**Hemigrammus rhodostomus** — Characidae · fish
Small peaceful tetra with a bright red nose, very popular in aquariums for its active schooling and distinctive coloration.
The rummy-nose tetra has a slender silver body, a bright red head, and a black-and-white striped tail. It reaches about 5 cm in adulthood. It is a schooling fish that lives in tight groups and becomes shy if kept in small numbers. Its red nose intensifies in well-maintained water and in the presence of conspecifics. It is sensitive to water quality and stress. In the aquarium, it enjoys shaded areas and dense vegetation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 individuals in a minimum 60 L aquarium. Water should be soft and acidic (pH 5.5–7.0, GH 1–8, KH 1–5) with a temperature of 24–28 °C. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting are recommended. The omnivorous diet accepts flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes are essential to maintain the red nose color. This species is sensitive to diseases if parameters fluctuate.

##### [Schmarda's Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-schmardae)
**Hemigrammus schmardae** — Characidae · fish
Schmarda's Tetra is a small silvery fish with a dark stripe and a black caudal spot. It lives in schools in Amazonian blackwaters.
This tetra reaches about 4 cm. Its body is silvery with a dark lateral stripe and a well-marked black spot on the caudal peduncle. The fins are hyaline. It is very similar to Hemigrammus marginatus but the caudal spot is more pronounced. It is an active and gregarious swimmer. It occupies the mid-water and is peaceful. It is appreciated for its hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 6 in a 60-liter tank. Water should be soft and acidic (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-10). Temperature 23-28°C. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting are recommended. Omnivorous, accepts fine foods. Provide a setup with plants, roots, and dead leaves to mimic the natural habitat. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species. Breeding is possible in very soft water.

##### [Ulrey's tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-ulreyi)
**Hemigrammus ulreyi** — Characidae · fish
Small silver tetra with a black lateral stripe and red tail, peaceful and easy to keep in groups.
Ulrey's tetra has a silver body with a thin horizontal black stripe and a bright red tail. It reaches about 5 cm. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups and swims in the middle zone. It is very peaceful and suitable for community aquariums. It resembles the Hyanuary tetra but differs by a thinner stripe and redder tail. It enjoys dense vegetation and moderate lighting. Males are slightly more colorful.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Minimum 60 L aquarium for a group of 6–8. Soft to moderately hard water (pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15, KH 2–10) at 22–28 °C. Moderate filtration, standard lighting. Omnivorous: flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp. Compatible with most small peaceful fish. Hardy species, but avoid very hard water. Regular weekly water changes of 20%. Can be kept in a species tank or community.

##### [One-lined Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-unilineatus)
**Hemigrammus unilineatus** — Characidae · fish
The One-lined Tetra is a small silvery fish with a single horizontal black stripe. It schools in South American blackwaters.
This tetra reaches about 4 cm. Its body is elongated, silvery, with a thick, clearly visible black stripe from snout to caudal fin. The fins are transparent. It resembles Hemigrammus marginatus but the stripe is wider and continuous. It is very active and swims in tight schools. It is a peaceful and hardy fish, ideal for community aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 6 in a 60-liter tank. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-15), pH 5.5-7.5, temperature 22-28°C. Moderate filtration and subdued lighting are suitable. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia. Enjoys a planted aquarium with open swimming areas. Compatible with other small tetras, corydoras, rasboras. Avoid aggressive fish. Breeding is possible in soft acidic water.

##### [Ember tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-amandae)
**Hyphessobrycon amandae** — Characidae · fish
The ember tetra is a small bright orange fish, very popular for nano tanks.
This fish reaches about 2 cm. Its body is entirely orange to reddish, with a slightly darker caudal fin. Very peaceful and schooling. Males are more colorful than females. Active and swims throughout the water column. Its small size makes it an excellent choice for small tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 2cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 23–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, low to moderate hardness. A 30-liter tank is enough for a small school of 6–8. Well-filtered water with gentle flow. Dense planting and shaded areas are appreciated. Diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp nauplii. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid larger species.

##### [Buenos Aires tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-anisitsi)
**Hyphessobrycon anisitsi** — Characidae · fish
Hardy and active tetra, recognizable by its black caudal spot and red fins, but can be a fin-nipper.
The Buenos Aires tetra has a silver body with a black spot on the caudal peduncle and red fins. It reaches up to 7 cm. It is a very active fish that schools throughout the water column. It is generally peaceful but may nip the long fins of slow or sail-finned fish. It is very hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. It enjoys a planted aquarium with swimming space. Males are more colorful than females.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 100 L aquarium for a group of 6–8. Neutral to slightly alkaline water (pH 6.0–8.0, GH 5–20, KH 3–15) at 18–28 °C. Tolerates cooler temperatures than other tetras. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, vegetable matter, worms. Avoid tankmates with long fins (guppies, bettas). Prefer robust, fast fish. Weekly water changes of 25%. Can be kept in outdoor ponds in summer in temperate regions.

##### [Serpae tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-eques)
**Hyphessobrycon eques** — Characidae · fish
Small bright red tetra very popular in aquariums. Peaceful and schooling fish ideal for community tanks.
The Serpae tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques) is a characid from South America. It reaches about 4 cm. Its body is orange-red with a black diamond-shaped spot on the caudal peduncle. Fins are often tinged with red. It is a schooling fish that must be kept in groups of at least 6. Peaceful but may be slightly fin-nippy with long-finned fish. It enjoys a planted tank with subdued lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 L. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15. Provide floating plants to dim the light. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Maintain good filtration and regular water changes. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Bleeding heart tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-erythrostigma)
**Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma** — Characidae · fish
Peaceful tetra with a characteristic heart-shaped red spot near the gills, prized for the elongated dorsal fin in males.
The bleeding heart tetra has a slightly translucent silver body, a bright red heart-shaped spot behind the gill cover, and a tall dorsal fin in males. It reaches 6–7 cm. It is a schooling fish that must live in groups of at least 6. It is active but peaceful, ideal for a softwater community aquarium. Dominant males develop a longer dorsal fin and more intense colors. It enjoys dense vegetation and hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Minimum 80 L aquarium for a group. Soft acidic water (pH 5.5–7.0, GH 1–8, KH 1–5) at 24–28 °C. Moderate filtration, subdued lighting. Omnivorous diet: flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with other small peaceful tetras, corydoras, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. Sensitive to high nitrates, keep NO3 < 20 mg/L. Weekly water changes of 20–30%.

##### [Black neon tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-herbertaxelrodi)
**Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi** — Characidae · fish
The black neon tetra is distinguished by a black stripe and a luminous white stripe along the body.
It reaches about 4 cm. Its body is silvery with a broad black horizontal stripe and a thin iridescent white stripe above. The adipose fin is black. A schooling, peaceful and hardy fish. More tolerant than other neons. Both sexes are similar.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, moderate hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a school of 8–10. Water can be slightly alkaline. Décor with plants and driftwood works. Diet: flakes, fine granules, brine shrimp. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Lemon tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-pulchripinnis)
**Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis** — Characidae · fish
Small bright yellow tetra, peaceful and easy to keep, perfect for planted community aquariums.
The lemon tetra has a bright yellow body with yellow fins edged in black, a black anal fin, and red eyes. It reaches 4–5 cm. It is an active schooling fish that swims in the middle zone. It is very peaceful and can coexist with other small fish. Males are more colorful and slender than females. It enjoys dense vegetation and moderate lighting. Its yellow color intensifies with a varied diet.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 1-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 60 L aquarium for a group of 6–8 individuals. Soft to moderately hard water (pH 5.5–7.5, GH 1–12, KH 1–8) at 23–28 °C. Standard filtration, moderate lighting. Omnivorous: flakes, micro-pellets, live or frozen food. Compatible with most small peaceful fish. Hardy species, but sensitive to ammonia spikes. Regular weekly water changes of 20%. Can be kept in a species tank or community.

##### [Common pleco](/encyclopedia/hypostomus-plecostomus)
**Hypostomus plecostomus** — Loricariidae · fish
The common pleco is a large armored catfish, often sold as a cleaner but reaching an imposing size.
Hypostomus plecostomus can reach 50 cm in aquariums, even larger in the wild. Its body is elongated, covered with bony plates. The sucker mouth is wide. Coloration is dark brown to gray with lighter spots. The fins are large and spiny. It is a nocturnal and territorial fish. It produces a lot of waste. It feeds on algae, wood (necessary for digestion) and detritus. It can become aggressive towards small fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 400L, Size 50cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A very large aquarium (minimum 400 L) is necessary. Water should be well filtered, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, temperature 24-28°C. Moderate current is appreciated. Provide hiding places and especially wood to gnaw. Omnivorous: give vegetables, algae wafers, and meaty foods. Beware of rapid growth. Not suitable for small tanks. Compatible with robust medium to large fish.

##### [Elongate loach](/encyclopedia/leptobotia-elongata)
**Leptobotia elongata** — Botiidae · fish
The elongate loach is a large species, threatened in its natural habitat. It requires a very large aquarium with strong current and highly oxygenated water.
The body is very elongated and cylindrical, reaching up to 40 cm. Coloration is olive-brown to grayish with irregular dark spots. The head is small with reduced eyes. The fins are short and robust. This species is mainly nocturnal and spends the day hidden under rocks. It feeds on benthic invertebrates and small fish. In aquariums, it can become less shy if kept in a group. Its growth is slow and its lifespan exceeds 15 years. Reproduction has not been observed in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 18-24°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 400L, Size 40cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: EN
A minimum 400-liter aquarium is essential for a small group of 4-6 individuals. The substrate should be smooth gravel or coarse sand. Strong current and intense oxygenation are required (powerhead). Temperature should be maintained between 18-24°C, pH 6.5-7.5, hardness 5-15 dGH. Diet is carnivorous: earthworms, mussels, shrimp, carnivore pellets. Spacious hiding places (caves, large rocks) are essential. Avoid slow-moving or long-finned fish. Water changes should be frequent (30% weekly). This species is sensitive to water quality.

##### [L001 Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l001)
**Loricariidae sp. L001** — Loricariidae · fish
A large robust pleco with a dark body and red eyes, often called 'Royal Pleco'.
L001 is a large fish that can reach 40 cm. Its body is massive, gray-brown to black, with characteristic reddish eyes. It has a powerful sucker mouth and odontodes on the opercula. It is a nocturnal and peaceful species, but territorial with conspecifics. It feeds mainly on wood (xylophagous) and algae. Its growth is slow. It is highly valued for its imposing size.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 40cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, KH 2-8. A minimum 300-liter aquarium is necessary. Diet must include driftwood (essential), blanched vegetables and herbivore tablets. Strong water flow is appreciated. Spacious hiding places (caves, large roots) are essential. Compatible with medium to large fish. Avoid very aggressive species. Powerful filtration is required.

##### [Zebra Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l046)
**Loricariidae sp. L046** — Loricariidae · fish
A small black-and-white striped pleco, iconic and threatened, highly sought after by aquarists.
L046 is a small fish (10 cm) with an elongated and flattened body. Its unique coloration consists of vertical black and white bands. It has red eyes and a lyre-shaped caudal fin. It is a nocturnal and shy species, hiding in crevices. It is territorial but not aggressive towards other species. Its reproduction in aquariums is difficult. It is listed as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 2-10, KH 1-5. A minimum 80-liter aquarium is recommended. Diet should be varied: carnivore tablets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and blanched vegetables. Strong water flow is necessary. Narrow hiding places (pipes, rocks) are essential. Sensitive to water quality, requires frequent water changes. Compatible with peaceful small fish. Avoid boisterous species.

##### [Leopard Frog Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l134)
**Loricariidae sp. L134** — Loricariidae · fish
A medium-sized pleco with a spotted pattern reminiscent of a frog, very decorative.
L134 reaches about 12 cm. Its body is stocky and its base color is beige to light brown with large irregular dark spots. It has prominent eyes and a sucker mouth. It is a nocturnal and peaceful species that enjoys hiding places. It is slightly territorial with conspecifics. Its unique pattern makes it very popular. It feeds on algae and small invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-8. A minimum 120-liter aquarium is recommended. Diet should include bottom-dwelling tablets, blanched vegetables and frozen foods. Moderate water flow is appreciated. Hiding places (rocks, roots) are necessary. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species. Well-filtered water is important.

##### [Green Phantom Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l200)
**Loricariidae sp. L200** — Loricariidae · fish
A medium-sized pleco with an olive-green coloration and light spots, very aesthetic.
L200 reaches 15 cm. Its body is elongated and its base color is olive green to brown-green, dotted with small white or yellow spots. Its fins are edged in white. It has red or orange eyes. It is a nocturnal and peaceful species, but territorial with its own kind. It hides in rocky crevices. Its green coloration is unique among Loricariidae. It is sometimes called 'Green Phantom'.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-8. A minimum 150-liter aquarium is recommended. Diet should include herbivore tablets, blanched vegetables and frozen foods. Moderate to strong water flow is appreciated. Hiding places (rocks, caves) are essential. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive species. Oxygenated and clean water is necessary.

##### [L333 Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l333)
**Loricariidae sp. L333** — Loricariidae · fish
Small pleco with a striking black and white pattern. Popular in the hobby for its modest size and peaceful behavior.
Elongated body flattened ventrally, with a sucker mouth. The coloration consists of highly contrasting black and white bands or spots. Nocturnal species that spends the day hidden in caves or under roots. Territorial towards conspecifics but compatible with other peaceful fish. Males develop longer odontodes on the opercles. Breeding is possible in aquariums with suitable caves.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 2-8. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Omnivorous with herbivorous tendencies: algae wafers, blanched vegetables, protein supplements. Enjoys moderate current and well-oxygenated water. Requires hiding places (caves, driftwood). Sensitive to high nitrates (max 20 mg/L). Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive or highly territorial species.

##### [Red-finned Paradise Fish](/encyclopedia/macropodus-erythropterus)
**Macropodus erythropterus** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Red-finned Paradise Fish is a colorful labyrinth fish from Southeast Asia, prized for its bright red fins and territorial behavior.
This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body with long, pointed dorsal and anal fins. Males display bright red fins and bluish iridescence on the body. It possesses a labyrinth organ for breathing atmospheric air. It is territorial, especially towards other males, but can coexist with robust species. During breeding, the male builds a bubble nest at the surface. It can produce sounds during courtship displays.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this fish in an aquarium of at least 80 liters with a lid to maintain a humid air layer. Ideal temperature is 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Provide a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid small or shy tankmates; prefer medium-sized robust fish. A setup with floating plants and hiding spots is recommended. Regular water changes are important for water quality. Males can be aggressive towards other males; keep as a pair or harem.

##### [Paradise fish](/encyclopedia/macropodus-opercularis)
**Macropodus opercularis** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Paradise fish is a hardy fish with bright colors, known for its aggressive behavior. It can live in cooler waters than most gouramis.
The Paradise fish reaches up to 10 cm. Males display blue and red stripes with long fins. Females are smaller and less colorful. It has a labyrinth organ. It is very territorial and aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It prefers cooler waters (18-26°C). It builds a bubble nest. Its lifespan is 3 to 5 years.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature: 18-26°C, pH 6.0-8.0. A minimum tank size of 80 liters is recommended. Moderately hard water (GH 5-15). Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Plant densely and provide hiding spots. Avoid overly peaceful or small tankmates. Ideal in a species-only tank. A lid is necessary as it jumps. Can tolerate lower temperatures in winter.

##### [Boeseman's Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-boesemani)
**Melanotaenia boesemani** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
A brightly colored rainbowfish, very popular in the aquarium hobby. Peaceful and active, ideal for a community tank.
Melanotaenia boesemani has a laterally compressed, elongated body with spectacular coloration ranging from metallic blue to bright orange in males. Females are duller, silvery with yellow highlights. Dominant males develop intense colors during courtship displays. This species can reach 10 cm in length. It is gregarious and should be kept in groups of at least 6. Its active behavior makes it an excellent fish for planted aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 200 liters with good filtration and moderate water flow. Ideal temperature is 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15. Feed a varied diet: flakes, pellets, and live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia). This peaceful species is compatible with other similarly sized fish. Avoid aggressive or very fast-moving species. A planted tank with open swimming areas is recommended. Breeding is possible in a separate tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop. Eggs are laid daily over several days.

##### [Lake Tebera Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-herbertaxelrodi)
**Melanotaenia herbertaxelrodi** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Vulnerable species endemic to Lake Tebera, appreciated for its golden and blue colors. Threatened by habitat degradation.
Melanotaenia herbertaxelrodi is distinguished by a golden-yellow coloration on the back and flanks, with a horizontal metallic blue stripe. The fins are often tinted red or orange. It reaches about 10 cm. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish, but requires high water quality. In aquariums, it is less common than other Melanotaenia species. Its natural habitat is limited to Lake Tebera, which is under environmental pressure.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Aquarium of at least 200 liters with efficient filtration and moderate flow. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 8-15. Hard, alkaline water is recommended. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Peaceful species, compatible with similarly sized fish. Avoid aggressive species. A planted tank with open areas is ideal. Breeding is similar to other rainbowfish: spawning on fine plants. Due to its vulnerable status, prefer captive-bred specimens.

##### [Lake Kutubu Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-lacustris)
**Melanotaenia lacustris** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Endangered species endemic to Lake Kutubu, highly prized for its metallic colors. Its conservation is concerning due to introduced species.
Melanotaenia lacustris has an elongated, silvery body with metallic blue-green reflections on the flanks. Adult males develop a reddish tint on the dorsal and anal fins. It can reach 12 cm. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish, but requires a large water volume to thrive. Its natural habitat is threatened by the introduction of exotic fish like the Nile perch. In aquariums, it is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Aquarium of at least 250 liters with strong filtration and moderate flow. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 8-15. Hard, alkaline water is preferred. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Peaceful species, compatible with similarly sized fish. Avoid aggressive species. A planted tank with open areas is ideal. Breeding is difficult in captivity; eggs are laid on fine plants. Due to its endangered status, prefer captive-bred specimens.

##### [McCulloch's Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-maccullochi)
**Melanotaenia maccullochi** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Robust and colorful rainbowfish, widespread in coastal waterways. Easy to keep in aquariums.
Melanotaenia maccullochi has a silvery body with blue and green reflections, and a dark lateral stripe. Males have yellow to orange dorsal and anal fins. It reaches 8 cm. It is a gregarious and active fish, ideal for community aquariums. It is more tolerant than other Melanotaenia species. In the wild, it lives in clear to slightly turbid waters. It breeds easily in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 150L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 150 liters for a group. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15. Accepts a wide range of parameters. Diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Peaceful species, compatible with most similarly sized fish. Avoid aggressive species. A planted tank with open swimming areas is perfect. Breeding is simple: eggs are laid on fine plants or a mop. Fry are easy to raise with infusoria then brine shrimp nauplii.

##### [Parkinson's Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-parkinsoni)
**Melanotaenia parkinsoni** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Elegant rainbowfish with bluish iridescence, highly valued in aquariums. Hardy and easy to keep.
Melanotaenia parkinsoni reaches up to 10 cm. Its body is silvery with blue and green iridescence, and a dark horizontal stripe. Males are more colorful than females. This species is very active and lives in schools. It is known for its fast swimming and curious behavior. In the aquarium, it explores all levels. Its reproduction is typical of rainbowfish: spawning on fine plants.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15. Minimum 100 liters for a group of 6. Omnivorous diet: flakes, small pellets, live or frozen foods. Weekly 20% water changes. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Provide planted decor with swimming spaces. Avoid aggressive tankmates. This species is sensitive to water quality; efficient filtration is required.

##### [Neon Dwarf Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-praecox)
**Melanotaenia praecox** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Small rainbowfish with bright colors, perfect for nano aquariums. Very active and peaceful.
Melanotaenia praecox is one of the smallest members of the family, reaching only 6 cm. Males display a metallic electric blue coloration with bright red fins, while females are more silvery. It is a gregarious fish that must live in groups of at least 6. It is very active and spends its time swimming in the water column. In the aquarium, it enjoys dense plants and open areas. Its small size makes it compatible with shrimp and other small fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 100 liters for a group, but 60 liters can work for a small group. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 5-12. Slightly acidic to neutral water is ideal. Diet: fine flakes, micro pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Very peaceful species, ideal for a community tank with calm fish. Avoid overly large or aggressive species. A planted tank with shaded areas is recommended. Breeding is easy: eggs are laid on fine plants or a mop. Fry are small and require very fine food.

##### [Eastern Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-splendida)
**Melanotaenia splendida** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Colorful and peaceful rainbowfish, ideal for community aquariums. Known for its iridescent sheen.
Melanotaenia splendida has an elongated, laterally compressed body with well-developed fins. Males display bright colors ranging from blue to red, while females are duller. This species can reach 12 cm in length. It is very active and swims in schools. Its schooling behavior makes it an excellent community fish. It is also known for its ability to adapt to various water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature between 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, and GH 5-15. A minimum tank of 120 liters is recommended for a group of 6. Feed a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are essential. This species is peaceful and compatible with other non-aggressive fish. Avoid strong currents. A planted setup with open swimming areas is ideal.

##### [Banded Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-trifasciata)
**Melanotaenia trifasciata** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Rainbowfish recognizable by its three dark bands, very colorful and active. Ideal for community tanks.
Melanotaenia trifasciata reaches 12 cm. Its body is silvery with three longitudinal black bands, and red, yellow, and blue iridescence in males. Females are duller. It is a schooling fish that swims in groups. Very active, it occupies the middle water column. Breeding is easy, with spawning on plants. It can live 5-7 years in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15. Minimum 120 liters for 6 fish. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Regular water changes. Compatible with other peaceful fish. Provide a planted tank with open areas. Avoid overly active or aggressive species. Moderate filtration is sufficient. This species is hardy but sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Weather Loach](/encyclopedia/misgurnus-anguillicaudatus)
**Misgurnus anguillicaudatus** — Cobitidae · fish
The Weather Loach is a robust and adaptable freshwater fish known for its ability to sense changes in atmospheric pressure. It is native to East Asia.
This fish has an elongated, eel-like body that can reach 30 cm. Its coloration is olive-brown to grayish with irregular dark spots on the back and sides. The belly is lighter. It has small fins and a rounded caudal fin. Around the mouth, there are 6 to 10 barbels. It is a nocturnal and burrowing species that spends much time buried in the substrate. It can breathe atmospheric air through its vascularized intestine. Its behavior becomes restless before weather changes, hence its name.
Parameters: Temperature 10-25°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 150 liters is recommended for an adult. Temperature can range from 10 to 25°C, but ideal is 18-24°C. pH should be 6.5-7.5 and GH 5-15. A fine sand or rounded gravel substrate is important to allow burrowing. Hiding places (rocks, driftwood) and subdued lighting are appreciated. It is omnivorous: accepts dry, frozen, and live foods. It is peaceful but may eat very small fish. It is sensitive to water quality, especially nitrates. Efficient filtration is necessary. It can jump, so a lid is essential.

##### [Anduze's Pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-anduzei)
**Nannostomus anduzei** — Characidae · fish
A rare pencilfish in the hobby, with a silvery body, a black stripe, and a red caudal fin. Peaceful and suited for blackwater tanks.
Nannostomus anduzei reaches about 3 cm. Its body is elongated with a horizontal black stripe. The caudal fin is bright red, similar to N. rubrocaudatus but smaller. The dorsal and anal fins are transparent. It lives in schools and is very shy. It prefers acidic, very soft water. In the aquarium, it often hides among plants. It is a delicate species requiring perfectly stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-5. Minimum 60-liter tank for a group of 6. Water must be very soft and acidic with gentle filtration. Feed with micro live or frozen foods. Dense plants and roots are essential for hiding spots. Avoid any parameter fluctuations. Compatible with other small blackwater fish.

##### [Beckford's pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-beckfordi)
**Nannostomus beckfordi** — Lebiasinidae · fish
Slender pencilfish with an elongated body, striped black and gold. Peaceful and schooling, ideal for planted nano tanks.
Beckford's pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi) is a small fish of the family Lebiasinidae. It reaches up to 6 cm. Its body is elongated with a horizontal black stripe bordered by yellow or gold. It has a small upward-facing mouth. It is a schooling fish that must be kept in groups of at least 6. Very peaceful and enjoys densely planted tanks with subdued lighting. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 40 L (nano possible). Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-7.0, GH 1-10. Dark substrate, fine plants (Java moss, Cryptocorynes). Diet: micro pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Soft acidic water. Regular but moderate water changes.

##### [Three-lined pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-eques)
**Nannostomus eques** — Characidae · fish
Small elongated fish with three horizontal black lines. Very popular in aquaria for its coloration and peaceful behavior.
Nannostomus eques reaches up to 5 cm. Its body is elongated and fusiform with an upward-facing mouth. It has three distinct horizontal black lines on a silvery to golden background. The caudal fin is reddish. It is a surface-dwelling fish often holding an oblique position. It is schooling and must live in groups. It is active and peaceful, ideal for community aquariums. It can be sensitive to water parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters, well planted with shaded areas. Soft and acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10) at 23-28°C. A lid is recommended. Diet: small insects, worms, brine shrimp, and fine dry food. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid aggressive or large tankmates. Regular water changes to maintain good quality.

##### [Espe's Pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-espei)
**Nannostomus espei** — Characidae · fish
A small pencilfish with a silvery body, a black stripe, and a red spot on the anal fin. Peaceful and ideal for blackwater tanks.
Nannostomus espei reaches 3.5 cm. Its body is fusiform with a median black stripe. A characteristic orange-red spot adorns the anal fin. The fins are usually transparent. It lives in schools and prefers acidic, very soft water. It is an active but shy fish. In the aquarium, it often stays near the surface or mid-water. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-5. Minimum 60-liter tank for a group of 6. Water must be very soft and acidic, ideally with peat extract. Feed with small live or frozen foods. Floating plants and dense vegetation are recommended. Avoid overly large tankmates. Compatible with other blackwater fish like neon tetras and dwarf corydoras.

##### [Harrison's pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-harrisoni)
**Nannostomus harrisoni** — Characidae · fish
Small elongated fish with a horizontal black line and a red spot on the anal fin. Endemic to Guyana.
Nannostomus harrisoni reaches up to 4 cm. Its body is elongated with an upward mouth. It has a thick horizontal black line on the flank, and a bright red spot on the anal fin. The caudal fin is hyaline with red reflections. It is a peaceful, schooling surface-dwelling fish. It is less common in the aquarium trade than other Nannostomus. It prefers soft, acidic water. Its behavior is similar to other pencilfish.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters, well planted with shaded areas. Soft and acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10) at 23-28°C. Diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine dry food. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes. Sensitive to water quality.

##### [Dwarf pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-marginatus)
**Nannostomus marginatus** — Lebiasinidae · fish
The smallest pencilfish, barely 3.5 cm. Body striped black and red, very peaceful, ideal for nano tanks.
The dwarf pencilfish (Nannostomus marginatus) is a tiny fish of the family Lebiasinidae. It reaches only 3.5 cm. Its body is elongated with a horizontal black stripe and a red or golden stripe above. Fins are often transparent with red spots. It is a very shy schooling fish that must be kept in groups of at least 8 to 10. It prefers very soft acidic water typical of blackwater. It feeds on very small foods.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 4.5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Nano tank of at least 30 L. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 4.5-6.5, GH 1-5. Blackwater (peat, catappa leaves). Fine plants, subdued lighting. Diet: infusoria, microworms, brine shrimp nauplii. Very regular water changes with RO water. Delicate fish for experienced aquarists.

##### [Coral red pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-mortenthaleri)
**Nannostomus mortenthaleri** — Characidae · fish
Small elongated fish with a bright red body and a horizontal black line. Highly sought after for its intense color.
Nannostomus mortenthaleri reaches up to 3.5 cm. Its body is elongated with an upward mouth. It is characterized by a bright coral red body with a horizontal black line from snout to caudal fin. The fins are often red. It is a peaceful, schooling surface-dwelling fish. It is endemic to the Rio Nanay in Peru. Its color is more intense in soft, acidic water. It is highly prized by aquarists for its beauty.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters, planted with floating plants and subdued lighting. Soft and acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10) at 23-28°C. Diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine dry food enriched with carotenoids to maintain color. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes. Sensitive to nitrates.

##### [Red-tailed Pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-rubrocaudatus)
**Nannostomus rubrocaudatus** — Characidae · fish
A small peaceful pencilfish with a bright red tail, perfect for planted and blackwater aquariums.
Nannostomus rubrocaudatus reaches about 3 cm. Its elongated, slender body is typical of pencilfishes. The caudal fin is intense red, contrasting with the silvery body. A thin black horizontal line runs along the flank. It lives in schools and enjoys soft, acidic water. Its behavior is very peaceful, making it an excellent community fish. In the aquarium, it often stays in mid-water and is active.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep temperature at 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-10. A minimum 60-liter tank is recommended for a group of 6. Water should be well-filtered with moderate flow. Provide a varied diet: micro-worms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine flakes. Floating plants and dense vegetation are appreciated. Avoid overly active or large tankmates. Compatible with other small tetras, rasboras, and corydoras.

##### [Three-banded pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-trifasciatus)
**Nannostomus trifasciatus** — Characidae · fish
Small elongated fish with three horizontal black bands. Similar to N. eques but with broader bands.
Nannostomus trifasciatus reaches up to 4 cm. Its body is elongated with an upward mouth. It has three thick horizontal black bands on a silvery background. The caudal fin is orange-red. It differs from N. eques by broader bands and slightly smaller size. It is a peaceful, schooling surface-dwelling fish. It prefers soft, acidic water. It is often confused with N. eques but can be differentiated by the band pattern.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters, planted with floating plants. Soft and acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10) at 23-28°C. Diet: micro-worms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine dry food. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid strong currents. Weekly water changes. Sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [One-lined Pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-unifasciatus)
**Nannostomus unifasciatus** — Characidae · fish
An elegant pencilfish with a single black horizontal stripe. Very peaceful, it thrives in groups in a planted aquarium.
Nannostomus unifasciatus reaches up to 4 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed. A broad black stripe runs from snout to caudal peduncle. The fins are translucent with occasional reddish tint. It swims in schools and occupies the mid-water. It is a shy fish that appreciates hiding spots. In good condition, it may show golden reflections on the back.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-10. Minimum 60-liter tank for a group of 6. Water should be soft and acidic with gentle filtration. Feed with fine foods: brine shrimp nauplii, micro-worms, crushed flakes. Dense plants and roots are beneficial. Avoid aggressive fish. Compatible with small tetras, rasboras, and corydoras.

##### [Eggers' killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-eggersi)
**Nothobranchius eggersi** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Nothobranchius eggersi is an annual killifish with brilliant colors, prized for its red fins and metallic blue body.
Males reach 5–6 cm and display a turquoise blue body with red scales, red dorsal and anal fins edged in blue. Females are brown-gray with dark spots. This is an annual species: eggs survive the dry season in mud. In the aquarium, it requires very soft, acidic water, temperature 24–28°C. It is active and colorful, but males are highly territorial. Reproduction involves spawning in a peat substrate, with dry incubation of 3–6 months.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-6.8, GH 2-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 6.0–6.8, GH 2–5, KH 1–2, temperature 24–28°C. Minimum 40 liters for a pair. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, mosquito larvae. Gentle filtration, subdued lighting. Floating plants and hiding spots. Nitrates max 15 mg/L. Weekly 20% water changes. Sensitive to diseases if water is too hard. Compatible only with other annual killifish or in a species tank.

##### [Furzer's killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-furzeri)
**Nothobranchius furzeri** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Nothobranchius furzeri is an annual killifish famous for its rapid growth and short lifespan, used in aging research.
Males reach 5–7 cm and display a bright blue body with red spots, a red caudal fin, and blue dorsal and anal fins edged in red. Females are brown-gray. This is an annual species: eggs resist drought. In the aquarium, it prefers very soft, acidic water, temperature 25–30°C. It is very active and colorful, but males are aggressive with each other. Reproduction requires a peat substrate and dry incubation of 4–8 months.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 6-6.8, GH 2-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 50L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 6.0–6.8, GH 2–5, KH 1–2, temperature 25–30°C. Minimum 50 liters for a pair. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, mosquito larvae. Gentle filtration, moderate lighting. Floating plants and hiding spots. Nitrates max 15 mg/L. Weekly 20% water changes. Very sensitive to water quality. Compatible only with other annual killifish or in a species tank. Beware of jumping: cover the tank.

##### [Günther's killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-guentheri)
**Nothobranchius guentheri** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
A small, brightly colored annual killifish highly prized by specialized aquarists. It requires soft, acidic water and live food.
Nothobranchius guentheri is a small fish reaching up to 5 cm. Males display bright red, blue and yellow hues, while females are duller. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, adapted for fast swimming. It has a rounded caudal fin and well-developed pectoral fins. This killifish is a surface dweller that spends most of its time foraging. It is known for territorial behavior among males, especially during breeding. Its peculiarity is its annual life cycle in the wild, laying diapausing eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 22–26 °C and pH 6.0–7.0. Water must be very soft (GH 2–10) and low in minerals (KH 1–5). A 20-liter tank is sufficient for a pair. Provide a varied diet of live or frozen prey (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms). Males are aggressive toward each other; keep one male with two or three females. A tight lid is essential as they jump. Add floating plants and gentle filtration. Eggs must be incubated in moist peat for several weeks.

##### [Korthaus's killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-korthausae)
**Nothobranchius korthausae** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Threatened annual killifish endemic to Tanzania, with brilliant colors. Its aquarium care is delicate and requires stable parameters.
Nothobranchius korthausae reaches about 5 cm. Males display a bright red pattern on a metallic blue background, with yellow fins. Females are brownish and smaller. The body is fusiform, adapted for fast movement in shallow waters. It has a large upturned mouth, typical of surface feeders. This killifish is active and curious, but males are highly territorial. Its reproduction is annual: eggs undergo obligatory diapause. It is considered endangered in its natural habitat.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: EN
Ideal temperature: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.0, GH 2–10, KH 1–5. A 20-liter tank is suitable for a pair. Water must be very soft and acidic. Feed exclusively with live prey (brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae). Males must not be kept together. A lid is mandatory. Use a gentle filter and floating plants. Eggs should be collected on peat and incubated in air for 3–6 months before rehydration.

##### [Redfin killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-orthonotus)
**Nothobranchius orthonotus** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
A colorful annual killifish, perfect for species-only aquariums with soft water and short life cycle.
Nothobranchius orthonotus is an annual killifish from temporary wetlands in East Africa. Males display bright red fins and a metallic blue-green body, while females are duller. Their life cycle is adapted to seasonal ponds: they lay eggs that survive the dry season. In aquariums, they rarely live more than a year but breed easily if conditions are met.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 5-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires soft, acidic water with moderate temperature. A species-only tank of 30 L minimum for a pair. Substrate should be peat or fine sand for spawning. Feed exclusively with live or frozen prey (brine shrimp, daphnia). Eggs can be stored in moist peat for several months before hatching.

##### [Rachow's killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-rachovii)
**Nothobranchius rachovii** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Rachow's killifish is an annual fish with bright colors, highly prized by specialized aquarists.
Nothobranchius rachovii reaches 5-6 cm. The male is very colorful: turquoise blue body with red scales, red and blue fins. The female is dull, brown. The fins are rounded. It is a surface fish. It lives in small groups. Its life cycle is annual: it hatches, grows, reproduces and dies in less than a year. The eggs can remain in diapause for several months. It is very active and territorial among males.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 2-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NT
A specific tank of 30-50 L for a pair or trio. Water should be very soft (GH 2-5), acidic (pH 6.0-6.5), temperature 24-28°C. A gentle filter, without strong current. Provide fine plants (Java moss) and a peat substrate for spawning. Carnivorous: accepts small insects, artemia, daphnia. Do not mix with other fish. Males are aggressive towards each other. Reproduction requires collecting eggs in peat and storing them moist.

##### [Giant gourami](/encyclopedia/osphronemus-goramy)
**Osphronemus goramy** — Osphronemidae · fish
A very large gourami that can exceed 50 cm, ideal for very large aquariums or ponds.
Osphronemus goramy is one of the largest labyrinth fish. It can reach 60 cm in captivity. Its body is massive, grey-brown to silvery, with robust fins. It is an intelligent and curious fish, but becomes territorial with age. It requires a huge space and powerful filtration.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 500L, Size 60cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 500L or pond. Soft to slightly alkaline water, very powerful filtration. Varied diet: pellets, vegetables, fruits, worms. Beware of jumping, heavy lid. Can coexist with large peaceful fish.

##### [Giant gourami](/encyclopedia/osphronemus-laticlavius)
**Osphronemus laticlavius** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Giant gourami is a very large freshwater fish, reaching over 50 cm. It is impressive but requires a very large aquarium.
This gourami can reach 50 cm in aquariums. Its body is massive, gray-silver with dark vertical bands. It has a labyrinth organ. It is relatively peaceful but can become aggressive towards small fish. It is omnivorous and has a large appetite. It builds a bubble nest. Its growth is rapid. Its lifespan is 10 to 15 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 50cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature: 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5. A minimum tank size of 500 liters is essential. Moderately hard water (GH 5-15). Varied diet: large pellets, vegetables, worms, shrimp. Provide powerful filtration and regular water changes. It can coexist with other large peaceful fish. Avoid very small species. A heavy lid is necessary. Species for experienced aquarists.

##### [Eel loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-anguillaris)
**Pangio anguillaris** — Cyprinidae · fish
The eel loach is an elongated, eel-like fish, ideal for peaceful community aquariums. It enjoys sandy substrates and hiding places.
Pangio anguillaris has a very elongated, cylindrical body reminiscent of an eel, with a brownish to yellowish coloration and darker markings. Its fins are small and transparent. It is a nocturnal fish that spends the day buried in sand or hidden under roots. It is gregarious and must be kept in groups of at least three. Its burrowing behavior is fascinating to watch. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates and worms. In the aquarium, it accepts frozen foods and sinking pellets.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this species in an aquarium of at least 60 liters with a fine sandy substrate to allow burrowing. Water should be soft to moderately hard, with a pH of 6.0–7.0 and a temperature of 24–28 °C. Gentle filtration is recommended to avoid strong currents. Plant densely and add roots, smooth stones, and leaf litter to recreate a natural biotope. Feed with a varied diet: bloodworms, brine shrimp, sinking pellets for bottom dwellers. Avoid aggressive or overly large tankmates. Regular water changes are essential to maintain good water quality.

##### [Doria's loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-doriae)
**Pangio doriae** — Cyprinidae · fish
Doria's loach is a small, peaceful bottom-dwelling fish, recognizable by its elongated body and spotted pattern. It lives in groups and enjoys soft, acidic water.
Pangio doriae reaches about 8–10 cm in adulthood. Its body is elongated, slightly laterally compressed, with a beige to light brown base color dotted with small irregular dark spots. The fins are translucent. It is a gregarious, nocturnal fish that hides in the substrate or under plant debris. It is very active at night and can be seen sifting through sand for food. In the aquarium, it is shy and requires plenty of hiding places. It gets along well with other peaceful species of similar size.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium is recommended, with a fine sandy substrate and gentle filtration. Ideal parameters: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 5.5–7.0, GH 2–8, KH 1–4. Add roots, stones, and floating plants to dim the light. Feed with small live or frozen foods, as well as sinking pellets. Change 20% water weekly. Avoid fast or aggressive fish. Breeding in captivity is rare but possible under very stable conditions.

##### [Kuhli loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-kuhlii)
**Pangio kuhlii** — Cobitidae · fish
The Kuhli loach is a small eel-like fish, very discreet, ideal for planted aquariums with soft substrate.
Pangio kuhlii reaches 8-10 cm. Its body is snake-like, laterally compressed. Coloration is pink to orange with many dark vertical bands. The fins are small. The mouth is surrounded by barbels. It is a nocturnal and very shy fish. It spends the day buried in the substrate or hidden. It lives in groups. It is peaceful and compatible with all non-aggressive fish. It can breathe atmospheric air.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 60 L for a group of 5-6 individuals. Substrate must be fine (sand) to allow burrowing. Water should be soft (GH 3-8), acidic (pH 6.0-6.5), temperature 24-28°C. Provide hiding places (leaves, roots, plants). Omnivorous: accepts small pellets, worms, artemia. Avoid strong currents. Sensitive to nitrates. Compatible with peaceful fish like rasboras, corydoras.

##### [Giant Kuhli Loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-myersi)
**Pangio myersi** — Cyprinidae · fish
The Giant Kuhli Loach is an elongated, striped bottom-dwelling fish, peaceful and nocturnal. It enjoys hiding spots and groups of conspecifics.
This loach can reach 10 cm. Its eel-like body is brownish-pink with dark vertical bands. It has small fins and a downward-facing mouth. It is a gregarious fish that must live in groups of at least 3. It is omnivorous and sifts through the substrate for food. Its shy behavior makes it ideal for planted tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, hardness 2-10 dGH. A minimum 80-liter tank for a group. Fine sand substrate to avoid injuries. Many hiding spots (roots, leaves, pipes). Diet: sinking pellets, brine shrimp, worms. Gentle filtration. Sensitive to nitrates and sudden changes.

##### [Half-banded Loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-semicincta)
**Pangio semicincta** — Cyprinidae · fish
The Half-banded Loach is a small striped bottom-dweller, very peaceful and shy. It lives in groups and requires a well-structured tank.
This loach reaches up to 8 cm. Its elongated body is pale yellow with incomplete brown bands (half-bands). It has a rounded caudal fin. It is a gregarious fish that must be kept in groups of at least 3. Omnivorous, it feeds on small invertebrates and debris. Sensitive to water quality and prefers soft, acidic water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, hardness 1-5 dGH. A minimum 60-liter tank for a group. Fine sand substrate, many hiding spots (roots, oak leaves). Diet: sinking pellets, microworms, brine shrimp. Gentle filtration with low flow. Regular but gradual water changes. Delicate species.

##### [Shelford's loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-shelfordii)
**Pangio shelfordii** — Cyprinidae · fish
Shelford's loach is a slender bottom fish, characterized by a dark longitudinal stripe. It is peaceful and lives in groups in soft, acidic waters.
Pangio shelfordii reaches 8–10 cm. Its body is elongated, with a well-defined dark lateral line on a beige to light brown background. The fins are small and colorless. It is a burrowing fish that spends much time buried in sand, only the head protruding. It is gregarious and shy, requiring the presence of conspecifics. Its diet consists of small benthic invertebrates. In the aquarium, it is sensitive to water quality and unstable parameters. It cohabits well with peaceful fish such as small rasboras or corydoras.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Provide an aquarium of at least 60 liters with fine sandy substrate and gentle filtration. Temperature 24–28 °C, pH 5.5–6.5, GH 2–6, KH 1–3. Water must be very clean and stable. Add catappa leaves and roots to acidify the water and provide hiding places. Feed with live foods (bloodworms, daphnia) and sinking pellets. Change 20% water weekly. Avoid boisterous fish. Breeding is difficult in captivity.

##### [Cardinal tetra](/encyclopedia/paracheirodon-axelrodi)
**Paracheirodon axelrodi** — Characidae · fish
The cardinal tetra resembles the neon tetra but its red stripe runs the entire length of the body, making it even more colorful.
The cardinal tetra reaches up to 5 cm. Its red stripe runs from eye to tail, while the blue stripe is shorter. It is hardier than the neon tetra. A schooling, peaceful and very active fish. It prefers acidic and dark waters. In the aquarium, it is sensitive to sudden parameter changes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–30°C, pH 5.0–6.5, very low hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a school of 10. Peat filtration helps maintain acidity. Dim lighting and floating plants are appreciated. Diet: small live or frozen foods, fine flakes. Compatible with other small peaceful characins. Avoid overly active tankmates.

##### [Neon tetra](/encyclopedia/paracheirodon-innesi)
**Paracheirodon innesi** — Characidae · fish
The neon tetra is a small freshwater fish very popular in aquariums, recognizable by its luminous blue and red stripe.
The neon tetra reaches about 3–4 cm. Its body is silvery with an electric blue horizontal stripe from the eye to the adipose fin, and a bright red stripe from the abdomen to the tail. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups. Peaceful and active, it is ideal for community tanks. Males are slightly slimmer than females. During breeding, colors intensify.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–6.5, very low hardness. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a school of 10. Water should be well filtered but with gentle flow. Décor with floating plants and driftwood mimics its biotope. Sensitive to high nitrates. Diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with all small peaceful fish. Avoid large or aggressive species.

##### [Vittata pleco](/encyclopedia/peckoltia-vittata)
**Peckoltia vittata** — Loricariidae · fish
A small striped catfish, perfect for planted aquariums with current.
Peckoltia vittata is a catfish from the Loricariidae family, native to Brazilian rivers. It has an elongated body with dark vertical stripes on a light background. Like other Loricariidae, it has a sucker mouth and feeds mainly on algae and small invertebrates. It is a peaceful and discreet species that appreciates hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires well-oxygenated water with moderate to strong flow. A planted aquarium with driftwood and rocks is ideal. Feed with algae, vegetables, and bottom-feeder foods. Sensitive to water quality.

##### [Butler's Molly](/encyclopedia/poecilia-butleri)
**Poecilia butleri** — Poeciliidae · fish
Butler's Molly is a peaceful freshwater fish from Mexico, appreciated for its silvery coloration and ease of care.
This molly has a robust, slightly compressed body. Males are smaller and have a gonopodium. Coloration is generally silvery with bluish reflections and sometimes black spots. Females are larger and rounder. It is an active fish that prefers hard, slightly alkaline water. It can tolerate slight salinity. It breeds easily, with females giving birth to live fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-30
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 80-liter tank. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-30. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, algae, live foods. Adding aquarium salt (1 tsp per 20L) can be beneficial. Keep one male per two or three females. Compatible with other peaceful fish. Regular water changes. Ovoviviparous reproduction.

##### [Dwarf Molly](/encyclopedia/poecilia-chica)
**Poecilia chica** — Poeciliidae · fish
The Dwarf Molly is a small freshwater fish, ideal for nano tanks. It originates from the Yucatán and breeds easily.
It is one of the smallest poeciliids, males reaching barely 3 cm. The body is stocky and the dorsal fin is large. Coloration is variable: grey, yellow, with black spots or blue reflections. Females are larger and duller. It is a peaceful and schooling fish. It lives in clear, hard water. In aquariums, it is very active and enjoys plants. Its small size makes it an excellent choice for small volumes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A 30-liter tank is enough for a small group. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 10-20. Omnivorous, accepts micro-foods, infusoria, brine shrimp. Keep in groups of at least 6. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Ovoviviparous reproduction, fry are very small. Regular water changes.

##### [Sailfin Molly](/encyclopedia/poecilia-latipinna)
**Poecilia latipinna** — Poeciliidae · fish
The Sailfin Molly is an elegant fish with a large sail-like dorsal fin. It is hardy and adapts to brackish water.
Poecilia latipinna can reach 10-12 cm. Males have a large erect dorsal fin. Color ranges from gray to olive green with blue iridescence. Females are smaller and less colorful. This fish is peaceful and active. It enjoys planted tanks with open areas. It tolerates a wide range of salinity. It is a prolific livebearer.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8.5, GH 10-25
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80 L tank is recommended. Water can be soft to hard (GH 10-25, KH 10-20), pH 7.0-8.5, temperature 24-28°C. Adding salt (1-2 teaspoons per 10 L) is beneficial. Efficient filtration is needed. Feed flakes, algae and live foods. Keep a group of 4-6 individuals. Avoid aggressive fish. Perform 25% weekly water changes.

##### [Mexican Molly](/encyclopedia/poecilia-mexicana)
**Poecilia mexicana** — Poeciliidae · fish
The Mexican Molly is a hardy and easy-to-keep fish, often used in aquariums. It adapts to various water conditions.
Poecilia mexicana reaches 8-10 cm. Its body is elongated, gray-green with silvery reflections. Males have a gonopodium. Females are rounder. This fish is peaceful and gregarious. It swims at all levels. It tolerates brackish water. It is a livebearer that breeds easily. Several color varieties have been selected.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8.5, GH 10-25
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80 L tank is recommended. Water can be soft to hard (GH 10-25, KH 10-20), pH 7.0-8.5, temperature 24-28°C. Salt addition is tolerated. Moderate filtration and dense vegetation are appreciated. Feed flakes, pellets and blanched vegetables. Keep a group of 4-6 individuals. Avoid aggressive fish. Perform 20% weekly water changes.

##### [Guppy](/encyclopedia/poecilia-reticulata)
**Poecilia reticulata** — Poeciliidae · fish
The guppy is one of the most popular aquarium fish, known for its ease of breeding and varied colors.
Poecilia reticulata reaches 3-5 cm (male smaller than female). The male is very colorful with varied patterns (caudal, dorsal). The female is larger, gray or olive. It is an ovoviviparous fish: females give birth to live fry. It is very active, swims at the surface and mid-water. It is peaceful and gregarious. There are many cultivated varieties (lyretail, endler guppy, etc.).
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 30 L for a small group. Water can be hard (GH 10-20), pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 24-28°C. A moderate filter. Plants to hide fry. Omnivorous: accepts flakes, pellets, artemia. Very prolific: separate males and females if you don't want breeding. Compatible with most small peaceful fish. Avoid fin-nipping species (barbs, neon tetra).

##### [Molly](/encyclopedia/poecilia-sphenops)
**Poecilia sphenops** — Poeciliidae · fish
The molly is a robust and easy fish, often confused with the guppy but larger and stockier.
Poecilia sphenops reaches 6-10 cm. The body is stocky, the head broad. Wild coloration is gray-green with bluish reflections. Cultivated varieties are black (black molly), golden, marbled. The fins are well developed. It is an ovoviviparous fish. It is peaceful, active, and lives in groups. It can be kept in brackish water. It grazes on algae. Males are smaller and more colorful than females.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-25
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 80 L for a group. Water should be hard (GH 15-25), alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5), temperature 25-28°C. Good filtration. Addition of salt (1 teaspoon per 10 L) recommended for cultivated varieties. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, vegetables, algae. Prolific. Compatible with other hard water fish (platies, swordtails). Avoid acidic water. Sensitive to diseases if water is too soft.

##### [Sailfin molly](/encyclopedia/poecilia-velifera)
**Poecilia velifera** — Poeciliidae · fish
The sailfin molly is a peaceful and elegant fish, recognizable by its large sail-like dorsal fin.
Poecilia velifera is a species of fish in the family Poeciliidae, native to Mexico. Males have a highly developed dorsal fin, hence their name. They grow up to 12 cm. They are ovoviviparous, easy to breed in aquariums. They prefer slightly brackish water and well-planted tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 3. Tank minimum 100L. Hard water, pH 7.5-8.5, temperature 24-28°C. Add aquarium salt (1 tsp per 10L) to mimic brackish water. Varied diet: flakes, brine shrimp, vegetables.

##### [Endler's Guppy](/encyclopedia/poecilia-wingei)
**Poecilia wingei** — Poeciliidae · fish
The Endler is a small, colorful livebearer perfect for nano tanks. It is easy to keep and breeds quickly.
Poecilia wingei reaches 3-4 cm. Males are highly colored with black, orange, green and blue spots. Females are gray. This fish is active and gregarious. It swims throughout the water column. It is very peaceful and compatible with other small fish. Reproduction is simple: females give birth to live fry every 4-6 weeks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A 40 L tank is enough for a small group. Water can be soft to hard (GH 5-20, KH 5-15), pH 6.5-8.0, temperature 24-28°C. Moderate filtration and dense vegetation are appreciated. Feed flakes, pellets and live foods. Keep a group of at least 3-4 individuals. Avoid aggressive fish. Perform 20% weekly water changes. Fry should be protected from adults.

##### [Forktail Blue-eye](/encyclopedia/pseudomugil-furcatus)
**Pseudomugil furcatus** — Pseudomugilidae · fish
Small peaceful fish with forked fins, ideal for planted aquariums.
Pseudomugil furcatus is a small rainbowfish reaching up to 5 cm. It has an elongated translucent body with iridescent blue highlights. Its dorsal and anal fins are forked, hence its name. Males are more colorful than females, with longer fins. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups. It is active and peaceful, compatible with other small species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 individuals in an aquarium of at least 60 liters. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 5-15), pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 24-28°C. Gentle filtration and moderate lighting are recommended. The aquarium should be well planted with open swimming areas. Feed with fine foods (flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp). Regular water changes (20% weekly) are important. Avoid strong currents. Compatible with other small peaceful fish.

##### [Gertrude's Blue-eye](/encyclopedia/pseudomugil-gertrudae)
**Pseudomugil gertrudae** — Pseudomugilidae · fish
Small bright blue fish, highly appreciated for its color and peaceful schooling behavior.
Pseudomugil gertrudae reaches about 3 cm. Its body is translucent with metallic blue highlights, especially in males. The fins are often tinted yellow or white. It is a schooling fish that must live in groups of at least 6. It is very active and swims in the middle water column. Its small size makes it an excellent choice for nano aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 40 liters is sufficient for a small group. Water should be soft (GH 5-12), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and kept between 24-28°C. Gentle filtration and moderate lighting are suitable. Plant densely while leaving swimming spaces. Feed with micro-foods, brine shrimp nauplii and fine flakes. Weekly 20% water changes are recommended. Avoid large or aggressive tankmates.

##### [Paska's Blue-eye](/encyclopedia/pseudomugil-paskai)
**Pseudomugil paskai** — Pseudomugilidae · fish
Rare and poorly documented species, prized by aquarists for its delicate beauty.
Pseudomugil paskai reaches about 3 cm. Its body is translucent with iridescent blue-green highlights. The fins are long and often edged in white. Dominant males display brighter colors. It is a schooling and shy fish that prefers calm waters. It is sensitive to sudden parameter changes. Its reproduction is similar to other Pseudomugil, with eggs attached to plants.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: DD
Keep a group of at least 6 in a minimum 40-liter aquarium. Water must be very soft (GH 3-8), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0) and 24-28°C. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting are preferred. The tank should be densely planted with shaded areas. Feed with micro-foods, infusoria and brine shrimp. Water changes should be done carefully (10-15% weekly). Avoid fast or large fish.

##### [Pacific Blue-eye](/encyclopedia/pseudomugil-signifer)
**Pseudomugil signifer** — Pseudomugilidae · fish
Robust and adaptable fish, tolerating a wide range of parameters, ideal for beginners.
Pseudomugil signifer reaches up to 4 cm. Its body is silvery with blue highlights and a dark lateral stripe. Males have more developed and colored fins. It is a very tolerant species that can live in freshwater or slightly brackish water. It forms tight schools and is active all day. Its hardiness makes it an excellent choice for community tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium is recommended for a group. Water can be soft to hard (GH 5-20), pH 6.5-8.0, temperature 22-28°C. Moderate filtration and standard lighting are suitable. The tank should have plants and open areas. Feed with flakes, pellets and live foods. Tolerates slight salinity (1.002-1.005). Regular 20% weekly water changes. Compatible with most small peaceful fish.

##### [Delicate Blue-eye](/encyclopedia/pseudomugil-tenellus)
**Pseudomugil tenellus** — Pseudomugilidae · fish
Small delicate fish with subtle colors, perfect for peaceful planted aquariums.
Pseudomugil tenellus reaches about 3 cm. Its body is elongated and translucent with silvery and bluish highlights. The fins are short and rounded. Males show a slight yellow coloration on the fins. It is a schooling fish that lives in loose groups. It is very peaceful and can be kept with other micro-species. Its reproduction is typical of Pseudomugil, with eggs deposited on fine-leaved plants.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A 40-liter aquarium is sufficient for a small group. Water should be soft (GH 5-12), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and 24-28°C. Gentle filtration and moderate lighting are suitable. The tank should be planted with shaded areas. Feed with very fine foods (crushed flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp). Weekly 15-20% water changes are recommended. Avoid strong currents and boisterous fish.

##### [Silver rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-argyrotaenia)
**Rasbora argyrotaenia** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small peaceful schooling fish with a slender silver body. Ideal for community aquariums.
Rasbora argyrotaenia is a cyprinid from Southeast Asia. It grows up to 10 cm. Its body is silver with a slight golden hue and a dark lateral line. It is an active schooling fish. It reproduces by laying adhesive eggs on plants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
Easy to keep. Prefers a planted aquarium with open swimming space. Soft to slightly acidic water. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Keep in groups of at least 6.

##### [Red-tailed rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-borapetensis)
**Rasbora borapetensis** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small peaceful cyprinid, recognizable by its bright red tail. Ideal for community freshwater aquariums.
Rasbora borapetensis grows up to 6 cm. Its body is slender, silvery with a dark lateral line. The caudal fin is intense red, hence its common name. The dorsal and anal fins are translucent. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools. It is very active and occupies the middle water column. Its coloration intensifies with varied diet and good conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep an aquarium of at least 80 liters for a school of 6 to 10 individuals. Ideal temperature is between 24 and 28°C, pH 6.0 to 7.0, and low hardness. Water should be well filtered but without strong current. A planted tank with shaded areas and leaf litter is appreciated. It is omnivorous, accepting flakes, micro-pellets, and live foods. Compatible with other small peaceful fish like tetras or corydoras. Avoid aggressive or overly large species.

##### [Eyespot Rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-dorsiocellata)
**Rasbora dorsiocellata** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small peaceful fish recognizable by its black spot on the dorsal fin. Ideal for planted community aquariums.
The Eyespot Rasbora grows up to 6 cm. Its body is silvery with a characteristic black spot on the dorsal fin, resembling an eye. It also has a fine dark lateral line. It is a schooling fish that lives in shoals in the wild. It is very active and peaceful, making it an excellent choice for community aquariums. Its caudal fin is slightly forked. Under good conditions, golden reflections appear on its flanks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature between 22 and 26°C, pH 5.5 to 7.0, and GH 2 to 10. A planted aquarium with shaded areas and moderate flow is ideal. Provide a varied diet: flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp, and daphnia. A minimum tank volume of 60 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. This fish is very peaceful and compatible with other small non-aggressive species. Avoid overly active or large tankmates. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. Breeding is possible in soft acidic water with fine-leaved plants.

##### [Einthoven's rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-einthovenii)
**Rasbora einthovenii** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small peaceful schooling fish, ideal for community aquariums.
Einthoven's rasbora is a cyprinid from Southeast Asia. It reaches up to 6 cm and has a silvery body with a dark lateral line. It is a very active schooling fish. It prefers soft, acidic water with plenty of vegetation. In the aquarium, it is easy to keep and breeds in open water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 in a tank of 60L minimum. Soft, acidic water, moderate filtration, floating plants. Feed with fine foods (flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp).

##### [Espei rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-espei)
**Rasbora espei** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small schooling fish with bright red-orange body, ideal for planted nano tanks. Very peaceful and easy to keep.
Rasbora espei reaches only 3 to 4 cm. Its body is slender, intense red-orange with a horizontal black band from the eye to the caudal peduncle. The fins are translucent. It is a schooling fish that must live in groups of at least 6 individuals. It is very active and swims throughout the water column. Its peaceful behavior makes it an excellent companion for shrimp and other small fish. It enjoys densely planted aquariums with shaded areas.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter tank is sufficient for a small school. Ideal temperature is 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.0, GH 2–10. Moderate lighting and gentle filtration are recommended. Diet is omnivorous: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and flakes. It is compatible with all peaceful fish of similar size, as well as shrimp. Avoid large or aggressive fish. Weekly 20% water changes are enough. Breeding is possible in a specific tank with fine-leaved plants; eggs are scattered.

##### [Harlequin rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-heteromorpha)
**Rasbora heteromorpha** — Cyprinidae · fish
The harlequin rasbora is a small, peaceful, and colorful fish, very popular in community aquariums. It is easy to keep.
Rasbora heteromorpha has a deep, laterally compressed body, pink-orange in color with a characteristic triangular black spot on the flank. It reaches up to 4 cm. It is a schooling fish that swims in groups. It is very hardy and adapts to different conditions. It reproduces by spawning on the underside of leaves.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 60 L for a school of 8 to 10 individuals. Acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0-7.0), soft (GH 3-8), temperature 24-28°C. A planted setup with shaded areas and moderate lighting is suitable. They are omnivorous: flakes, fine pellets, artemia. They are peaceful fish, compatible with tetras, corydoras, and other small fish. Breeding is possible with broad-leaved plants.

##### [Clown Rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-kalochroma)
**Rasbora kalochroma** — Cyprinidae · fish
Large rasbora with an elongated body and reddish sheen, requiring very acidic water. Peaceful but sensitive species.
The Clown Rasbora can reach 10 cm. Its body is slender, silvery to pinkish with a dark horizontal stripe. The fins are often tinged with orange-red. It lives in schools in the blackwaters of peat swamps. It is an active and peaceful fish, but can be shy in small groups. It has a large mouth adapted for catching insects. In the aquarium, it appreciates hiding places and subdued lighting. Its coloration intensifies with a diet rich in carotenoids.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 4-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature between 24 and 28°C, very acidic pH 4.0 to 6.5, GH below 5. Water must be soft and rich in tannins (catappa leaves). A minimum tank of 100 liters is required for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Feed with varied foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, small insects, and quality flakes. Avoid strong currents. Compatible tankmates: small characins, corydoras, other rasboras. Water changes should be frequent but moderate to avoid disturbing chemistry. Breeding is difficult, requiring very soft and acidic water.

##### [Tiger loach](/encyclopedia/syncrossus-helodes)
**Syncrossus helodes** — Botiidae · fish
The tiger loach is a semi-aggressive fish with a characteristic striped pattern. It requires a large aquarium with many hiding places and acidic water.
The body is elongated and robust, with a beige to yellow coloration adorned with wide black vertical bands reminiscent of a tiger's coat. The fins are often edged with red. The head is pointed with well-developed barbels. This species is territorial and may show intraspecific aggression if the group is too small. It is very active and constantly explores the substrate. In a sufficiently large group (6+), the hierarchy stabilizes. It can produce audible clicks. Adult size reaches 25 cm and lifespan 12 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 300-liter aquarium is required for a group of 5-7 individuals. The substrate should be fine (sand) to avoid injuring the barbels. Filtration must be powerful but with moderate flow. Ideal temperature is 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, hardness 5-12 dGH. Diet is omnivorous: worms, crustaceans, dry foods. Numerous hiding places (rocks, roots, pots) are essential to reduce stress. Avoid very small or shy fish. Weekly water changes of 25-30% are recommended. Good oxygenation is important.

##### [Giant Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/thoracocharax-securis)
**Thoracocharax securis** — Characidae · fish
The largest hatchetfish, reaching 8 cm, with a silver body and imposing pectoral fin.
Thoracocharax securis grows up to 8 cm. Its body is very deep and compressed, with an extremely developed pectoral fin. It is silver with bluish reflections. It is a schooling fish. It feeds on insects and small fish. In the aquarium, it is peaceful but requires a large swimming space. It jumps easily. Its growth is fast.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
School of at least 6 individuals. Aquarium of at least 100L. Parameters: pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-10, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Tight cover mandatory. Floating plants and open areas. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid very small species.

##### [Spotted Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/thoracocharax-stellatus)
**Thoracocharax stellatus** — Characidae · fish
Silver hatchetfish with dark spots, active at the surface and easy to keep in groups.
Thoracocharax stellatus reaches 6 cm. Its body is deep and compressed, with irregular black spots on the flanks. The pectoral fins are large and adapted for gliding. It is a schooling fish. It feeds on insects and small crustaceans. In the aquarium, it is peaceful but can be shy. It prefers slightly acidic water. Its surface swimming is elegant.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
School of 6-8 individuals. Aquarium of at least 80L. Parameters: pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-10, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: flakes, small insects, brine shrimp. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Cover required. Floating plants and shaded areas. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Honey gourami](/encyclopedia/trichogaster-chuna)
**Trichogaster chuna** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Honey gourami is a small fish with golden and orange hues, very peaceful. It is ideal for nano aquariums.
The Honey gourami reaches up to 5 cm. Males during breeding take on a bright honey or orange color. Females remain duller. It has a labyrinth organ. It is a shy fish that prefers planted aquariums. It lives in groups and can be kept in pairs. It builds a bubble nest. Its lifespan is 2 to 3 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature: 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. A 40-liter tank is sufficient for a pair or small group. Soft to moderately hard water (GH 4-10). Varied diet: micro flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia. Plant densely and provide hiding spots. Avoid strong currents. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Males are rarely aggressive. A lid is recommended. Easy species for beginners.

##### [Dwarf gourami](/encyclopedia/trichogaster-lalius)
**Trichogaster lalius** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Dwarf gourami is a small, colorful labyrinth fish, very popular in the aquarium hobby. It is appreciated for its bright colors and peaceful behavior.
The Dwarf gourami reaches up to 6 cm. Males display bright blue and red stripes, while females are duller. It has a labyrinth organ allowing it to breathe atmospheric air. It is a shy fish that appreciates densely planted areas. It can become territorial during breeding. It builds a bubble nest for spawning. Its lifespan is 2 to 4 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C and pH 6.0-7.5. A minimum tank size of 40 liters is recommended. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 4-10). Provide a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Plant the aquarium densely and provide hiding spots. Avoid strong currents. This gourami is compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Males can be aggressive towards each other; it is best to keep them in pairs or a single male. A lid is necessary as it may jump.

##### [Pearl gourami](/encyclopedia/trichogaster-leeri)
**Trichogaster leeri** — Osphronemidae · fish
Elegant gourami with a body covered in pearly spots. Peaceful and ideal for community aquariums.
Pearl gourami grows up to 12 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed, brownish-silver with pearly white spots all over. The fins are similarly spotted. Males have an orange-red throat during breeding. It is a calm and shy labyrinth fish. It lives in pairs or small groups. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter aquarium for a pair. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, low hardness. A planted setup with shaded areas and low current is necessary. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, live food. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive or boisterous species. Breeding is possible with a bubble nest.

##### [Pearl gourami](/encyclopedia/trichogaster-leerii)
**Trichogaster leerii** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Pearl gourami is an elegant fish with a silvery body dotted with luminous spots. It is renowned for its beauty and peaceful nature.
The Pearl gourami reaches 12 cm. Its body is silvery with iridescent reflections and white spots resembling pearls. Males develop an orange-red throat during breeding. It has a labyrinth organ. It is a gregarious fish that lives in groups. It is shy and appreciates planted areas. It builds a bubble nest. Its lifespan is 4 to 5 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature: 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. A minimum tank size of 80 liters is recommended for a group. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 4-10). Provide a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Plant densely and leave open swimming areas. Avoid strong currents. Compatible with other peaceful fish. Males can be territorial with each other; it is best to keep one male or a group with several females. A lid is necessary.

##### [Moonlight gourami](/encyclopedia/trichogaster-microlepis)
**Trichogaster microlepis** — Osphronemidae · fish
A peaceful and elegant gourami, recognizable by its silvery hue and long fins.
Trichogaster microlepis is a labyrinth fish reaching up to 15 cm. Its body is silvery with bluish reflections, and its fins are long and slender. It is very peaceful and can coexist with other calm species. It enjoys planted tanks with shaded areas. Like all gouramis, it breathes atmospheric air.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 100L, well planted with floating plants. Soft to neutral water, moderate filtration. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, live or frozen foods. Beware of jumping, lid required.

##### [Three-spot gourami](/encyclopedia/trichogaster-trichopterus)
**Trichogaster trichopterus** — Osphronemidae · fish
Hardy and popular gourami, silvery blue with two black spots. Easy to keep.
Three-spot gourami reaches 15 cm. Its body is oval and laterally compressed, silvery blue with two black spots (one on the flank, one at the tail base). The pelvic fins are transformed into long tactile filaments. It is a labyrinth fish, calm but can be territorial with conspecifics. It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods. Breeding involves a bubble nest.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 120L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 120-liter aquarium for a pair. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A planted setup with open areas and a lid (as it may jump) is recommended. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, pellets, and live food. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive or very small species. Breeding is easy in a specific tank.

##### [Pygmy Gourami](/encyclopedia/trichopsis-pumila)
**Trichopsis pumila** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Pygmy Gourami is one of the smallest labyrinth fish, very peaceful and suitable for nano aquariums. It is valued for its discreet nature and schooling behavior.
This fish reaches only 3–4 cm in adulthood. Its body is elongated with a light brown-green coloration and dark spots. Fins are translucent with bluish reflections in males. It has a labyrinth organ but remains very dependent on water quality. It is a shy, schooling fish that must live in groups of at least 6. It breeds by building a small bubble nest. Fry are tiny and require very fine food. It is sensitive to water parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 30-liter tank is recommended for a group. Ideal temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Diet should consist of micro-particles: brine shrimp, daphnia, micro-pellets. This fish is very peaceful and can coexist with other small species like rasboras or dwarf corydoras. Dense planting and hiding spots are essential. Keep in groups of 6 or more. Regular water changes and good filtration are needed. Avoid larger or aggressive fish.

##### [Croaking Gourami](/encyclopedia/trichopsis-vittata)
**Trichopsis vittata** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Croaking Gourami is a small peaceful labyrinth fish known for the sounds it produces. It is ideal for planted community aquariums.
This fish has an elongated, slightly compressed body with rounded fins. Coloration is brownish to gray-green with dark spots and a black lateral line. Males have longer, more colorful fins. It has a labyrinth organ and can produce sounds by rubbing its pectoral fins. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in groups. It breeds by building a bubble nest under a leaf. Fry are very small and require fine food.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 40-liter tank is sufficient for a small group. Temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Provide a varied diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. This fish is very peaceful and can coexist with other small non-aggressive species. A planted setup with shaded areas and floating plants is ideal. Keep in groups of at least 3 to encourage natural behavior. Weekly water changes are recommended. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Alvarez Swordtail](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-alvarezi)
**Xiphophorus alvarezi** — Poeciliidae · fish
The Alvarez Swordtail is a colorful freshwater fish from Mexico, prized for its swordtail and bright colors.
The Alvarez Swordtail has an elongated body and an extended caudal fin in males. Its coloration ranges from yellow to red with black spots. Females are duller. It is an active and social fish. It prefers clear, well-oxygenated water. It breeds easily in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
A minimum 80-liter tank is recommended. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 10-20. Omnivorous, accepts flakes and live foods. Keep one male with several females. Compatible with other peaceful fish. Ovoviviparous reproduction.

##### [Swordtail](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-hellerii)
**Xiphophorus hellerii** — Poeciliidae · fish
The swordtail is an easy ovoviviparous fish, recognizable by the male's caudal sword, very popular in aquariums.
Xiphophorus hellerii reaches 10-14 cm (male with sword). The male has a sword-like extension on the caudal fin. The female is larger and without sword. Wild coloration is olive green with a red lateral stripe. Cultivated varieties are very diverse (red, green, black, marbled). It is an active, peaceful fish, but males can be territorial with each other. It lives in groups. It sometimes jumps.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 L for a group. Water should be hard (GH 10-20), alkaline (pH 7.0-8.0), temperature 24-28°C. Good filtration. Plants to hide fry. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, vegetables, artemia. Prolific. Compatible with other hard water fish (molly, platies). Avoid aggressive species. Males may fight, provide a ratio of 2-3 females per male.

##### [Platy](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-maculatus)
**Xiphophorus maculatus** — Poeciliidae · fish
The platy is a small freshwater fish popular in aquariums, easy to keep and breed.
The platy typically reaches 4-6 cm. It has a robust body and a rounded caudal fin. Males are smaller and have a gonopodium. Many color varieties exist. It is a peaceful and schooling fish. It is ovoviviparous, giving birth to live fry.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
The platy is very easy to keep. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a small group. Ideal temperature 22-26°C, pH 7.0-8.0, moderate hardness. It accepts all types of food: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. It is peaceful and gets along with other similar-sized fish. It prefers a planted tank with open swimming areas. Gentle filtration is sufficient. Regular water changes are important.

##### [Montezuma Swordtail](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-montezumae)
**Xiphophorus montezumae** — Poeciliidae · fish
The Montezuma Swordtail is a peaceful freshwater fish, prized for the sword-like extension on the male's tail fin. It originates from Mexico and breeds readily in aquariums.
The Montezuma Swordtail has an elongated and laterally compressed body. Males are distinguished by a long lower extension of the caudal fin, called a sword, which can reach the length of the body. The base coloration is silvery-grey with bluish reflections and a dark lateral stripe. Females are duller and lack the sword. It is an active, schooling fish that lives in groups. It is known for its ability to hybridize with other Xiphophorus species. In aquariums, it is easy to keep and breeds quickly.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NT
A tank of at least 80 liters is recommended for a small group. Ideal temperature is between 22 and 26°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 10-20°d. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. Diet is omnivorous: accepts flakes, pellets, live and frozen foods. It is best to keep one male for two or three females to avoid stress. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Beware of jumping, a lid is advised. Breeding is easy, females give birth to live fry.

##### [Nezahualcoyotl Swordtail](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-nezahualcoyotl)
**Xiphophorus nezahualcoyotl** — Poeciliidae · fish
The Nezahualcoyotl Swordtail is an endangered species endemic to Mexico, distinguished by its swordtail and colorful patterns.
This fish has an elongated body with a well-developed caudal sword in males. Its coloration is variable, often with horizontal bands and spots. Females are smaller and less colorful. It is a schooling and peaceful fish. It lives in clear, shallow waters. In aquariums, it requires good water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Minimum 80-liter tank. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 10-20. Omnivorous. Keep in groups with one male per several females. Sensitive to pollution, regular water changes needed. Compatible with peaceful fish. Ovoviviparous reproduction.

##### [Variable platy](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-variatus)
**Xiphophorus variatus** — Poeciliidae · fish
The variable platy is a small, colorful and hardy fish, ideal for beginners.
Xiphophorus variatus is a freshwater fish species in the family Poeciliidae. It is very popular in aquariums due to its ease of breeding and many color varieties. Males are smaller and more colorful than females. They grow up to 6 cm. They are ovoviviparous.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum group of 5. Tank 60L. Neutral to slightly alkaline water, pH 7-8, temperature 22-26°C. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Dense plants to hide fry.

##### [Dwarf Loach](/encyclopedia/yasuhikotakia-sidthimunki)
**Yasuhikotakia sidthimunki** — Botiidae · fish
The Dwarf Loach is a small, endangered freshwater fish endemic to the Mekong basin in Thailand. It is highly valued in the aquarium hobby for its small size and schooling behavior.
This fish reaches only 5-6 cm in adulthood. Its body is elongated and slightly laterally compressed, with a silvery to beige base color. It has a series of dark vertical bars on the flanks, sometimes broken. The caudal fin is slightly forked. It has four pairs of barbels. It is a very active species that must live in groups of at least 5 individuals. In the wild, it inhabits clear, well-oxygenated waters. In the aquarium, it is peaceful and can coexist with other small species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
A minimum tank size of 60 liters is sufficient for a group of 5-6 dwarf loaches. Temperature should be 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12. Fine sand substrate is preferable to protect their barbels. Provide dense plants, driftwood, and rocks for hiding. Moderate water flow is appreciated. They are omnivorous: micro-pellets, frozen and live foods. Avoid large or aggressive fish. Regular water changes are essential as they are sensitive to nitrates. Breeding in captivity is rare.

#### Plants
Source : /encyclopedia/plantes

##### [Needle spikerush](/encyclopedia/eleocharis-acicularis)
**Eleocharis acicularis** — Cyperaceae · plant
Needle spikerush is a foreground plant larger than dwarf hairgrass, forming fine grass clumps.
This plant has taller stems (10-20 cm) and finer than Eleocharis parvula. It forms dense clumps. It grows quickly and can be used as midground. It is very hardy and tolerates a wide range of conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy. Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. Moderate light. CO2 optional. Nutrient-rich substrate helps. Regular trimming to control height. Can be used as background if allowed to grow. Resistant to algae.

##### [Dwarf Hair Grass](/encyclopedia/eleocharis-minima)
**Eleocharis minima** — Cyperaceae · plant
A tiny carpeting plant forming a very dense low mat, perfect for the foreground of aquariums. It resembles a miniature lawn.
Eleocharis minima is a dwarf species of the Cyperaceae family, with fine stems 3–8 cm tall. It spreads quickly via stolons and covers the ground with a uniform green carpet. Its stems are very thin and flexible, giving a delicate appearance. It requires high light and CO2 supplementation to stay compact and avoid stretching. Under optimal conditions, it can form a very dense lawn in a few weeks. It is ideal for nano-aquariums and iwagumi-style aquascapes.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 20–28°C, pH 6–7.5, GH 2–10, KH 1–5. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 2 mg/L. High light (≥ 0.5 W/L) and CO2 20–30 mg/L recommended. Nutrient-rich substrate with liquid fertilizers. Regular trimming to maintain height. Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Avoid bottom-dwelling fish that uproot. Can be planted in small clumps spaced 2–3 cm apart for a uniform carpet.

##### [Montevideo Spike Rush](/encyclopedia/eleocharis-montevidensis)
**Eleocharis montevidensis** — Cyperaceae · plant
A grass-like carpeting plant with fine, upright stems, ideal for background or midground. It forms dense, slender clumps.
Eleocharis montevidensis produces bright green cylindrical stems 20–40 cm tall, with no visible leaves. It spreads via underground stolons and quickly forms an airy lawn. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate to high light and tolerates a wide range of parameters. Its fine stems sway gently with the current, adding natural movement. It is often used to create meadow or background effects. Growth is moderate and it requires little maintenance once established.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Optimal parameters: temperature 18–26°C, pH 6–8, GH 2–15, KH 2–10. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 2 mg/L. Moderate to high light (0.3–0.5 W/L), CO2 optional but beneficial (max 20 mg/L). A nutrient-rich substrate promotes dense growth. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Occasional trimming to control height. Avoid fish that dig up stolons. Can be planted in groups for a fuller effect.

##### [Dwarf hairgrass](/encyclopedia/eleocharis-parvula)
**Eleocharis parvula** — Cyperaceae · plant
Dwarf hairgrass is a foreground plant that forms a fine grass carpet, ideal for natural aquariums.
This plant looks like fine grass, with light green stems 5-10 cm tall. It spreads via underground stolons. It grows moderately fast. It requires moderate to high light. Can be used as foreground or midground. It is easier than Hemianthus.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy to moderate. Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. Moderate to high light. CO2 recommended for dense growth but not mandatory. Nutrient-rich substrate helps. Regular trimming to keep low carpet. Can be planted in small clumps. Compatible with most fish.

##### [Viviparous Spike Rush](/encyclopedia/eleocharis-vivipara)
**Eleocharis vivipara** — Cyperaceae · plant
An unusual carpeting plant that produces plantlets on its stems, hence the name 'viviparous'. It forms airy clumps of medium height.
Eleocharis vivipara is distinguished by its ability to produce small plantlets at the tips of its stems, which detach and root. Its stems are light green, fine, and upright, reaching 15–30 cm. It spreads both by stolons and by these viviparous plantlets, making propagation easy. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate to high light and tolerates varied conditions. It adds a light, airy texture, ideal for midground or background. Growth is moderate and it requires little maintenance.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 20–28°C, pH 6–7.5, GH 2–12, KH 1–5. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 2 mg/L. Moderate to high light (0.3–0.5 W/L), CO2 optional (max 20 mg/L). Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Occasional trimming to control height and remove plantlets if desired. Plantlets can be replanted to expand the carpet. Avoid fish that dig up roots.

##### [Glossostigma](/encyclopedia/glossostigma-cleistanthum)
**Glossostigma cleistanthum** — Phrymaceae · plant
Highly prized carpet plant in aquascaping, forming a dense green mat.
Glossostigma cleistanthum is a small creeping plant with bright green oval leaves. It grows forming a dense carpet on the aquarium floor. Its thin stems spread horizontally and root at each node. It requires high light to thrive properly. Under optimal conditions, it produces small white flowers above water. It is an ideal plant for natural-style aquascapes.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant requires high light (at least 50 µmol/m²/s) to maintain a dense carpet. CO2 supplementation is highly recommended for optimal growth. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 20-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10. A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial. Regular trimming is needed to prevent lower parts from lacking light. It is compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid burrowing fish that may uproot the plant.

##### [Two-stamen glossostigma](/encyclopedia/glossostigma-diandrum)
**Glossostigma diandrum** — Phrymaceae · plant
Similar to dwarf glossostigma but with slightly larger leaves. Ideal for high-tech aquariums.
Glossostigma diandrum resembles G. elatinoides but its leaves are slightly wider (up to 2 cm) and darker green. Stolons are sturdier and the carpet is less dense. It tolerates slightly lower light than its cousin. Emersed, it produces white flowers with two stamens (hence the name). Growth is fast with CO₂. It is a bit less demanding than G. elatinoides but still an intermediate to advanced plant.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 4cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to high light (0.5-0.8 W/L) recommended. CO₂ beneficial (15-25 mg/L) for optimal growth. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12°dGH, KH 1-6°dKH. Less sensitive to parameters than G. elatinoides. Plant small groups 2-3 cm apart. Regular trimming to keep carpet low. Balanced fertilization (NPK + trace elements). Compatible with most peaceful fish. Propagate by dividing stolons.

##### [Dwarf glossostigma](/encyclopedia/glossostigma-elatinoides)
**Glossostigma elatinoides** — Phrymaceae · plant
Very popular carpeting plant for aquascaping. Requires high light and CO₂ to form a dense mat.
Glossostigma elatinoides is a small creeping plant with bright green oval leaves 0.5-1.5 cm. It grows on stolons and forms a very low carpet (1-2 cm) under high light. Leaves are opposite and slightly fleshy. Under ideal conditions, it quickly covers the ground. It flowers emersed with small white flowers. A demanding plant that needs soft, acidic water. Often used in Dutch or natural style aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires intense light (0.7-1 W/L) and CO₂ injection (20-30 mg/L) for a dense carpet. Temperature 20-26°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-8°dGH, KH 0-4°dKH. Prefers soft, acidic water. Plant small clumps 1-2 cm apart. Trim regularly to 1-2 cm to maintain carpet. Sensitive to iron and potassium deficiencies. Avoid fish that uproot plants. Propagate by dividing stolons.

##### [Glossostigma](/encyclopedia/glossostigma-elmanianum)
**Glossostigma elmanianum** — Phrymaceae · plant
Glossostigma is a foreground plant widely used to create a dense, low carpet in aquariums.
This plant has small oval light green leaves (5-10 mm) on creeping stems. It grows quickly and forms a dense carpet if light is high and CO2 present. It is similar to Hemianthus callitrichoides but with slightly larger leaves. Very popular in aquascaping.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Demanding. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, low hardness. High light (1W/L or more). CO2 essential. Nutrient-rich substrate and liquid fertilizers. Regular trimming to prevent it from growing tall. Sensitive to algae. Suitable for experienced aquarists.

##### [Dwarf baby tears](/encyclopedia/hemianthus-callitrichoides)
**Hemianthus callitrichoides** — Linderniaceae · plant
Dwarf baby tears is a highly sought-after foreground plant for creating a dense carpet in aquariums.
This plant has very small round leaves (2-3 mm) on thin stems. It grows quickly and forms a dense carpet if conditions are good. It requires high light and CO2 to thrive. Often used in 'natural' or 'Dutch' style aquariums. It can be planted in small clumps.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Demanding plant. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, low hardness. High light (at least 1W/L). CO2 essential. Liquid fertilizers and nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Regular trimming needed to maintain carpet. Sensitive to algae if balance is off. Suitable for experienced aquarists.

##### [Glomeratus](/encyclopedia/hemianthus-glomeratus)
**Hemianthus glomeratus** — Plantaginaceae · plant
A highly sought-after carpeting plant in aquascaping, forming a dense mat. Its tiny round leaves create a lawn-like underwater effect.
Hemianthus glomeratus is an aquatic plant with fine, creeping stems producing tiny opposite leaves of 2–4 mm. It grows quickly under optimal conditions and forms a dense, uniform carpet. The stems root easily in the substrate and branch profusely. In the aquarium, it requires high light and regular CO2 supplementation to maintain its compact form. Without trimming, it can grow upward and lose its carpeting appearance. It is commonly used as a foreground plant in Dutch-style or natural aquascapes.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 5-7, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant requires high light (≥ 0.5 W/L) and CO2 supplementation between 20–30 mg/L for optimal growth. Ideal parameters are temperature 20–28°C, pH 5–7, GH 2–12, KH 1–5. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L and phosphates 2 mg/L. A nutrient-rich substrate with iron and trace elements promotes dense development. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and shrimp. Regular trimming (every 1–2 weeks) is necessary to maintain the carpet. Avoid bottom-dwelling fish that uproot the stems.

##### [Pearlweed](/encyclopedia/hemianthus-micranthemoides)
**Hemianthus micranthemoides** — Linderniaceae · plant
A fast-growing foreground plant that forms a dense carpet of small round leaves.
Hemianthus micranthemoides is a fine-stemmed aquatic plant, ideal for creating a dense foreground carpet. Its small light green leaves are arranged in opposite pairs. It requires moderate to high light and CO2 supplementation for optimal growth. It can also be used as a background plant.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 5-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to high light. CO2 essential. Regular trimming to maintain carpet. Nutrient-rich substrate.

##### [Brazilian micro sword](/encyclopedia/lilaeopsis-brasiliensis)
**Lilaeopsis brasiliensis** — Apiaceae · plant
An elegant carpet plant with fine sword-shaped leaves, perfect for natural aquariums.
Lilaeopsis brasiliensis is a foreground plant that forms a dense lawn via runners. Its bright green, narrow, pointed leaves grow 3-5 cm tall. It prefers moderate to high light and a rich substrate. Growth is slow without CO2 but accelerates with supplementation.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to high light. CO2 recommended. Nutrient-rich substrate. Occasional trimming to prevent matting.

##### [New Zealand micro sword](/encyclopedia/lilaeopsis-novae-zelandiae)
**Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae** — Apiaceae · plant
A hardy and easy carpet plant, ideal for temperate freshwater aquariums.
Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae resembles Lilaeopsis brasiliensis but with slightly wider leaves and faster growth. It forms a dense carpet 3-5 cm tall. Tolerates cooler temperatures (18-26°C) and moderate light. Can grow without CO2 but stays more compact with it.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light. CO2 optional. Nutrient-rich substrate. Tolerates lower temperatures than most carpet plants.

##### [Crenate water clover](/encyclopedia/marsilea-crenata)
**Marsilea crenata** — Marsileaceae · plant
Carpeting plant with clover-like leaves, ideal for aquarium foreground. Forms a dense mat under moderate light.
Marsilea crenata is a creeping aquatic fern with bright green four-leaf clover-like leaves. Each leaf is 0.5–2 cm in diameter, borne on thin stolons. Underwater, leaves stay small and close to the substrate. It can also grow emersed, producing larger leaves. Growth is moderate and it adapts to a wide range of parameters. It does not require added CO₂ but benefits from it. A hardy, low-maintenance plant ideal for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy plant, tolerates low to moderate light (0.3-0.5 W/L). Stronger light promotes denser carpet. Ideal temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15°dGH, KH 1-8°dKH. No strict CO₂ requirement, but 10-20 mg/L injection improves growth. Plant small clumps 2-3 cm apart. Regular trimming keeps carpet low. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid burrowing species. Propagate by cutting stolons.

##### [Hairy Water Clover](/encyclopedia/marsilea-hirsuta)
**Marsilea hirsuta** — Marsileaceae · plant
A carpeting plant with clover-like leaves, forming a low, dense mat. It resembles a tiny water clover.
Marsilea hirsuta is an aquatic fern that produces four-leaflet leaves resembling a clover. The leaves are slightly hairy (hence 'hirsuta') and measure 1–2 cm across. It spreads via stolons and can quickly cover the substrate. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate to high light and adapts to varied conditions. It can form a dense carpet or remain more sparse depending on lighting. It is ideal for the foreground and natural aquascapes. Growth is moderate and it does not require CO2, but benefits from it.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 18–26°C, pH 6–7.5, GH 2–12, KH 1–5. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 2 mg/L. Moderate to high light (0.3–0.5 W/L), CO2 optional (max 20 mg/L). Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Compatible with all peaceful fish and shrimp. Occasional trimming to maintain height. Avoid fish that dig up stolons. Can be planted in small pieces spaced 3–5 cm apart for a uniform carpet.

##### [Dwarf water clover](/encyclopedia/marsilea-minuta)
**Marsilea minuta** — Marsileaceae · plant
The smallest Marsilea, perfect for nano tanks. Forms a very fine and delicate carpet.
Marsilea minuta is a dwarf fern with leaves only 0.3-1 cm in diameter. Leaflets are rounded and light green. It grows on very thin stolons, creating a low, dense carpet. Under optimal conditions (high light and CO₂), it stays very short (1-2 cm). It can also grow emersed with slightly larger leaves. Growth is slow without CO₂. Demanding in light to maintain its dwarf form.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.2, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 15L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires moderate to high light (0.5-0.8 W/L) to stay dwarf. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.2, GH 2-10°dGH, KH 1-5°dKH. CO₂ recommended (15-25 mg/L) for compact growth. Plant small pieces 1-2 cm apart. Frequent trimming to prevent it from growing tall. Prone to algae if light is too strong without CO₂. Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Propagate by dividing stolons.

##### [Four-leaf water clover](/encyclopedia/marsilea-quadrifolia)
**Marsilea quadrifolia** — Marsileaceae · plant
Aquatic fern with four leaflets, forming a dense carpet. Very hardy and adaptable, suitable for low-light tanks.
Marsilea quadrifolia has floating or emergent leaves with four clover-like leaflets. Underwater, leaves stay small (1-3 cm) and creeping. Stolons spread quickly to colonize the substrate. It can survive in very varied conditions, including low light. Growth is slower without CO₂. It produces sporocarps under stress. An ideal plant for low-tech aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 3-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy, tolerates low to moderate light (0.2-0.4 W/L). Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 3-20°dGH, KH 2-12°dKH. No CO₂ needed, but light injection (10-15 mg/L) speeds growth. Plant in clumps 3-4 cm apart. Occasional trimming to prevent shading. Compatible with all fish. Propagate by dividing stolons. Watch for snails that may damage young shoots.

##### [Creeping feather moss](/encyclopedia/amblystegium-serpens)
**Amblystegium serpens** — Hypnaceae · plant
Creeping aquatic moss forming a dense carpet, ideal for natural aquariums.
Amblystegium serpens is a slow-growing aquatic moss forming dense, low carpets. Its fine, branched stems bear small, oval bright green leaves. It attaches easily to rocks and driftwood, creating a natural look. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate light and does not require CO2. Growth is faster in cooler water. It provides excellent shelter for shrimp and fry. Its fine texture contrasts well with larger plants.
Parameters: Temperature 15-25°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 10L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This moss is easy to maintain. Ideal temperature 15-25°C, pH 6-7.5. Low to moderate light is sufficient. No CO2 needed, but light liquid fertilization promotes growth. It tolerates soft to moderately hard water. Avoid strong currents. Trim regularly to prevent matting. Compatible with most peaceful fish and shrimp. Can be used as foreground or on hardscape.

##### [Afzelius anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-afzelii)
**Anubias afzelii** — Araceae · plant
Anubias afzelii is a robust plant with large dark green leaves, perfect for freshwater aquariums.
Anubias afzelii is an aquatic plant in the family Araceae, native to West Africa. It has thick, leathery leaves that can reach 30 cm in length. It is an epiphyte that attaches to rocks or driftwood. It grows slowly and does not require rich substrate. Ideal for low-tech aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 3-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Place in shade or moderate light. Do not bury the rhizome. Temperature 22-28°C. Soft to hard water, pH 6-8. Occasional liquid fertilization. Avoid algae by limiting light.

##### [Anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-barteri)
**Anubias barteri** — Araceae · plant
Anubias barteri is a robust and easy aquarium plant, ideal for beginners.
This plant has thick, leathery leaves of oval to lanceolate shape, dark green. It can reach 20-30 cm in height. It grows slowly and should not be planted in the substrate but attached to decor. It produces rhizomes that can be divided. It sometimes flowers above water with a white spathe.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Anubias barteri is very easy to maintain. It accepts a wide range of parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. It prefers low to medium light. Too much light can promote algae on leaves. It does not need CO2 or rich fertilizers. Avoid burying the rhizome. It can be attached to a root or rock with fishing line. It is compatible with most fish.

##### [Anubias Coffee](/encyclopedia/anubias-barteri-var-coffeifolia)
**Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia** — Araceae · plant
Hardy epiphyte with dark green leaves resembling coffee. Ideal for low-light aquariums.
Creeping rhizome producing thick, leathery leaves, dark green to brownish. Leaves are slightly wavy and up to 15 cm long. Very slow growth. Must not be planted in the substrate (risk of rhizome rot). Attaches to wood or rocks. Rarely flowers in aquariums (white spathe). Highly resistant to diseases and herbivores.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-10, KH 2-8. Low to moderate light (0.5 W/L). CO2 not required. Occasional liquid fertilizer. Nitrates max 20 mg/L, phosphates max 2 mg/L. Minimum tank volume 20 liters. Propagation by rhizome division. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Tolerates a wide range of parameters.

##### [Anubias nana](/encyclopedia/anubias-barteri-var-nana)
**Anubias barteri var. nana** — Araceae · plant
Small robust plant ideal for planted aquariums, slow growth, low light requirements.
Anubias nana is a small epiphytic plant reaching 10 to 15 cm in height. Its leaves are oval, dark glossy green, and its creeping rhizome allows attachment to rocks or driftwood. It rarely flowers underwater but produces a typical white Araceae inflorescence. Growth is very slow, making it an easy-care plant. It is resistant to herbivores such as catfish and cichlids. It is one of the most popular species in the aquarium hobby.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 12cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Undemanding plant, tolerates a wide range of parameters. Ideal temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Low to moderate light; too much light encourages algae on leaves. Do not bury the rhizome, attach it to a hard surface. CO2 fertilization not required but beneficial. Slow growth, rarely needs trimming. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Minimum tank size 10 liters.

##### [Giant Anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-gigantea)
**Anubias gigantea** — Araceae · plant
Large Anubias species with imposing leaves, ideal for large aquariums and paludariums.
Giant Anubias is the largest species of the genus, with leaves up to 40 cm long and 20 cm wide. The rhizome is very thick and can exceed 1 meter. Leaves are oval, leathery, dark glossy green. When emersed, it produces a large white inflorescence. Growth is slow but steady. It requires significant space and is perfect as a background or centerpiece plant. It is very hardy and can be kept in paludarium conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires a large aquarium (minimum 100 liters) due to its size. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Low to moderate light; too much light may encourage algae. Firmly attach rhizome to a large rock or root. CO2 fertilization not needed. Occasional root or liquid fertilizer. Trim old leaves if necessary. Compatible with large peaceful fish.

##### [Gracile Anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-gracilis)
**Anubias gracilis** — Araceae · plant
Anubias with narrow, elongated leaves, moderate growth, suitable for medium-sized aquariums.
Gracile Anubias is characterized by its lanceolate leaves, light to medium green, 15-25 cm long. The rhizome is thin and creeping, producing many roots. Leaves are thinner than other Anubias, giving an elegant appearance. It can reach 30 cm in height. Growth is slightly faster than Anubias nana. It flowers easily when emersed with a white spathe. It is a versatile plant for midground or background.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Standard parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Low to moderate light. Attach rhizome to a hard surface. Tolerates light fertilization. CO2 optional. Trim old leaves to stimulate growth. Compatible with most fish. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Watch for algae on leaves if light is too strong.

##### [Hastifolia anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-hastifolia)
**Anubias hastifolia** — Araceae · plant
Anubias hastifolia is distinguished by its arrow-shaped, light green leaves and slow growth.
Anubias hastifolia is an epiphytic aquatic plant in the family Araceae. Its leaves are hastate (spear-shaped) and up to 20 cm long. It is native to Central Africa. Like other Anubias, it prefers low to moderate light and no substrate needed. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Attach to a root or rock. Low light. Temperature 22-28°C. Soft to hard water, pH 6-7.5. Slow growth, do not bury rhizome. CO2 fertilization not necessary.

##### [Mini Anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-minima)
**Anubias minima** — Araceae · plant
Very small Anubias species, perfect for nano aquariums and foregrounds.
Anubias minima is a dwarf species with oval leaves 2-5 cm, dark green. The rhizome is very thin and short, forming dense clumps. It usually does not exceed 5-8 cm in height. Growth is extremely slow. It produces small white flowers when emersed. Ideal for small aquariums, it can be used as foreground or attached to small stones. It is very hardy and tolerates varied conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 5L, Size 6cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters identical to other Anubias: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Low to moderate light. Attach to a small rock or root. Do not bury rhizome. Light fertilization. CO2 not needed. Rarely needs trimming. Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Minimum tank size 5 liters. Watch for algae if light is too intense.

##### [Dwarf anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-nana)
**Anubias nana** — Araceae · plant
Dwarf anubias is a very popular small aquarium plant for nano tanks.
This plant is a miniature version of Anubias barteri, with smaller leaves (2-5 cm) and very slow growth. It reaches 5-10 cm in height. It is ideal for foreground. It shares the same characteristics: leathery leaves, creeping rhizome, low light requirement.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Care is identical to Anubias barteri. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. Low to medium light. Do not bury the rhizome. It can be attached to small stones or roots. Perfect for nano tanks. No CO2 needed. Watch for algae if light is too strong.

##### [Bolivian aponogeton](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-boiivianus)
**Aponogeton boiivianus** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
Rhizome plant with long wavy leaves, ideal for background. Occasionally flowers in aquarium.
Bolivian aponogeton produces light green ribbon-like leaves, slightly wavy, up to 50 cm. It requires rich substrate and moderate lighting. A winter rest period can stimulate flowering. It is sensitive to iron deficiency.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Plant rhizome in nutrient-rich substrate. Avoid burying completely. Add iron-rich liquid fertilizer. A rest period (temperature drop) can be beneficial.

##### [Boivin's lace plant](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-boivinianus)
**Aponogeton boivinianus** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
Boivin's lace plant is a bulbous plant with wavy translucent leaves, very decorative for freshwater aquariums.
Aponogeton boivinianus is characterized by its strongly wavy submerged leaves, light green translucent, 20-40 cm long. The bulb is elongated and produces fibrous roots. The veins are parallel and clearly visible. The inflorescence is an emergent spike bearing small white flowers. The plant has seasonal growth and goes dormant after flowering. It prefers soft, acidic water. In aquariums, it forms a nice bush.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: VU
Moderately difficult, requires soft water (GH <8, KH <4) and acidic pH (5.5-7.0). Temperature 22-28 °C. Moderate to intense lighting. CO₂ recommended. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Avoid high nitrates. A rest period of 2-3 months at 15-18 °C is beneficial. Propagation by seeds or bulb division. Leaves are fragile, avoid burrowing fish.

##### [Crinkled aponogeton](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-crispus)
**Aponogeton crispus** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
A rhizome plant with wavy, translucent leaves, highly prized in aquascaping for its decorative appearance.
Aponogeton crispus is an aquatic plant with a tuberous rhizome. Its leaves are elongated, wavy on the edges, light green and translucent, reaching up to 40 cm. It produces a floating inflorescence with small white flowers. In an aquarium, it grows quickly and may flower if conditions are favorable. It loses its leaves during a dormant period (winter) then regrows from the tuber. It is ideal as a background or midground plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant requires moderate to intense lighting, a nutrient-rich substrate (with root tabs), and soft to moderately hard water. Ideal temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. It benefits from CO2 injection and liquid fertilizers. A winter dormant period (lower temperature, less light) is beneficial to stimulate flowering. Avoid moving the tuber once planted. Compatible with most peaceful fish.

##### [Madagascar lace plant](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-madagascariensis)
**Aponogeton madagascariensis** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
The Madagascar lace plant is a bulbous plant remarkable for its translucent net-like leaves, highly prized in aquascaping.
Aponogeton madagascariensis has an elongated bulb from which petiolate submerged leaves emerge. The leaves are oval to lanceolate, with a very visible network of veins giving a lace-like appearance. They are 20-50 cm long and 5-10 cm wide. The plant produces an emergent spike inflorescence with small white flowers. It goes dormant after flowering. In aquariums, it requires soft, acidic water. Growth is seasonal. Propagation is by seeds or bulb division.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: VU
A moderately difficult plant, it requires soft water (GH <8, KH <4) and acidic pH (5.5-7.0). Temperature 22-28 °C. Moderate to intense lighting is recommended. CO₂ supplementation is beneficial. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Avoid high nitrates (>20 mg/L). A rest period of 2-3 months at 15-18 °C is necessary after flowering. Propagation by seeds or bulb division. Beware of algae on delicate leaves.

##### [Rigid-leaved aponogeton](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-rigidifolius)
**Aponogeton rigidifolius** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
Rhizome plant with rigid wavy leaves, very hardy. Perfect for midground or background.
Rigid-leaved aponogeton is distinguished by its dark green, leathery, wavy leaves, 30-60 cm. It grows slowly but is very robust. It tolerates a wide range of parameters and does not require a rest period. It can flower underwater.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Plant rhizome in soft substrate. Moderate to bright lighting. Regular fertilization. No rest period needed.

##### [Ulva aponogeton](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-ulvaceus)
**Aponogeton ulvaceus** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
A plant with large, wavy light green leaves resembling sea lettuce, very decorative in the aquarium.
Aponogeton ulvaceus is a plant with a tuberous rhizome. Its leaves are broad, wavy, soft green, reaching up to 50 cm in length. They are translucent and very decorative. The plant produces a flower stalk with white flowers. It grows quickly under optimal conditions. Like A. crispus, it may enter a dormant period. It is ideal as a background plant in large aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Similar to A. crispus: moderate to intense lighting, rich substrate, soft to moderately hard water, pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 22-28°C. Enjoys CO2 and fertilizers. A winter dormant period is recommended. Beware of burrowing fish that may uproot the tuber. Not demanding but performs best with regular care.

##### [Carolina mosquito fern](/encyclopedia/azolla-caroliniana)
**Azolla caroliniana** — Azollaceae · plant
Floating fern similar to Azolla filiculoides, often confused. Slightly smaller and more delicate.
Azolla caroliniana is a floating aquatic fern of the Azollaceae family. Its fronds are 0.5–1.5 cm long, with more rounded lobes than Azolla filiculoides. It forms dense mats on the water surface. Like other Azolla, it hosts nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria. Its growth is rapid under favorable conditions. It is often used as a shade plant in aquariums. Its color can turn red under intense light.
Parameters: Temperature 15-30°C, pH 5-8, GH 0-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 1.5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy to grow, Azolla caroliniana requires little maintenance. Moderate to strong light is recommended. Temperature between 15 and 30 °C, pH 5.0–8.0. No CO2 needed. Occasional fertilization can speed up growth. Avoid strong currents. Remove excess regularly to prevent smothering other plants. Compatible with shrimp and small fish.

##### [Mosquito fern](/encyclopedia/azolla-filiculoides)
**Azolla filiculoides** — Azollaceae · plant
Small floating aquatic fern, highly invasive in some regions. Forms a green mat on the water surface.
Azolla filiculoides is a small floating aquatic fern of the Azollaceae family. Its fronds are 1–2 cm long, lobed, and arranged in rosettes. The plant has a symbiotic relationship with the cyanobacterium Anabaena azollae, which fixes atmospheric nitrogen. It reproduces quickly by fragmentation and can completely cover a water surface. In aquariums, it provides excellent cover for fry and shrimp. Its color ranges from bright green to reddish under strong light.
Parameters: Temperature 15-30°C, pH 5-8, GH 0-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 2cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Azolla filiculoides is very easy to maintain. It prefers moderate to strong light but tolerates low light. Ideal temperature is between 15 and 30 °C. pH 5.0–8.0 and low to medium hardness are suitable. No added CO2 is needed. Liquid fertilization can boost growth. Avoid strong water flow that scatters the plants. Regular thinning is required to prevent overgrowth. Compatible with most fish and shrimp.

##### [Asplenium fern](/encyclopedia/bolbitis-asplenioides)
**Bolbitis asplenioides** — Dryopteridaceae · plant
An elegant fern with finely divided fronds, perfect for planted aquariums.
Bolbitis asplenioides is an epiphytic fern from West Africa. Its light green, highly divided fronds can reach 25 cm. It grows slowly and prefers moderate light. Ideal for creating a natural look on wood or rocks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Do not bury the rhizome. Moderate light. CO2 recommended for better growth. Soft to slightly acidic water.

##### [Asian fern](/encyclopedia/bolbitis-heteroclita)
**Bolbitis heteroclita** — Dryopteridaceae · plant
The Asian fern is a freshwater epiphytic plant from tropical Asia. It is distinguished by its finely divided fronds and slow growth.
Bolbitis heteroclita has pinnate, light green fronds with narrow segments. The creeping rhizomes anchor on hard surfaces. This fern can reach 30 cm in height. It prefers low to moderate light and soft to slightly acidic water. In aquariums, it is often used as a background or midground plant. It produces spores on the underside of fronds. Its growth is slow but steady. It does not require CO2 but benefits from it.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-5. Low to moderate light, avoid intense light which promotes algae. CO2 optional. Plant by attaching the rhizome to a rock or wood. Do not bury the rhizome. Liquid fertilizer recommended. Minimum tank size 30 liters. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp. Sensitive to sudden parameter changes. Prune damaged fronds to stimulate growth.

##### [African water fern](/encyclopedia/bolbitis-heudelotii)
**Bolbitis heudelotii** — Dryopteridaceae · plant
African water fern is a demanding plant that requires good current and water quality.
This fern has light green, finely divided leaves, giving a feathery appearance. It can reach 30-40 cm. It grows from a creeping rhizome. It is more delicate than Java fern. It requires moderate to strong current to prevent algae. Ideal for river-type aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 35cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
More demanding than Java fern. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, low hardness. Moderate light. Good current is essential. It appreciates CO2 and liquid fertilizers. Attach rhizome to rock or wood. Avoid planting in substrate. Can be challenging for beginners.

##### [Bucephalandra Catherine](/encyclopedia/bucephalandra-catherineae)
**Bucephalandra catherineae** — Araceae · plant
Bucephalandra Catherine is a freshwater epiphytic plant from Borneo. It is valued for its dark green leaves and slow growth.
Bucephalandra catherineae has lanceolate, dark green leaves with a slightly rough texture. The creeping rhizomes attach to rocks and wood. This plant grows slowly and forms dense clumps. It produces small white spathe flowers when emersed. In aquariums, it usually remains submerged. Growth is enhanced by moderate light and stable water conditions. It does not require additional CO2 but benefits from it.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Ideal temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-5. Low to moderate light is sufficient, but higher light can boost growth. CO2 supplementation is not mandatory but recommended for better health. Plant by attaching the rhizome to a rock or driftwood, do not bury the rhizome. Liquid fertilizers and nutrient-rich substrate can be added. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Avoid bottom-dwelling fish that may uproot the plant.

##### [Bucephalandra motleyana](/encyclopedia/bucephalandra-motleyana)
**Bucephalandra motleyana** — Araceae · plant
A dwarf epiphytic plant with dark green glossy leaves, highly prized in aquascaping. Native to Borneo, it is threatened in the wild.
Bucephalandra motleyana is a small creeping rhizome plant with oval leaves 3-8 cm long, intense green with metallic sheen. It grows very slowly and stays compact. Its flowers are discreet, typical of Araceae. In the aquarium, it must be attached to wood or stones. It tolerates a wide range of parameters but prefers soft, acidic water. Propagation is by rhizome division.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: VU
Moderate difficulty plant, requires patience. Low to moderate light; too strong light may promote algae. CO2 is not essential but speeds up growth. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-6. A balanced liquid fertilizer is recommended. Avoid planting the rhizome. Suitable for nano tanks and planted aquariums. Compatible with shrimp and peaceful fish. Clean and stable water is essential.

##### [Bucephalandra Blue](/encyclopedia/bucephalandra-sp-blue)
**Bucephalandra sp. 'Blue'** — Araceae · plant
Bucephalandra Blue is a freshwater epiphytic variety with bluish hues. Its unique coloration makes it a sought-after plant.
This Bucephalandra variety is characterized by oval to lanceolate leaves, bluish-green with metallic reflections. The creeping rhizomes attach to hard surfaces. Its growth is slow and compact. It produces small white spathe flowers when emersed. In aquariums, it remains submerged and forms dense clumps. The bluish color is more visible under moderate light. It does not require CO2 but benefits from it. It is a robust and easy-care plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-5. Moderate light to bring out the bluish reflections. CO2 optional. Attach the rhizome to a rock or wood. Liquid fertilizer recommended. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp. Avoid bottom-dwelling fish. Prune damaged leaves to stimulate growth.

##### [Bucephalandra Green](/encyclopedia/bucephalandra-sp-green)
**Bucephalandra sp. 'Green'** — Araceae · plant
Bucephalandra Green is a freshwater epiphytic variety with light green leaves. It is very hardy and easy to grow.
This Bucephalandra variety has oval to lanceolate leaves of a uniform light green. The creeping rhizomes easily attach to rocks and wood. Its growth is slow but steady. It forms dense, compact clumps. In aquariums, it remains submerged and rarely flowers. It tolerates a wide range of parameters. Its color stays green even under low light. It does not require CO2 but benefits from it.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-5. Low to moderate light. CO2 optional. Attach the rhizome to a hard surface. Liquid fertilizer recommended. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Very resistant to diseases. Avoid burying the rhizome. Prune dead leaves to maintain aesthetics.

##### [Bucephalandra Red](/encyclopedia/bucephalandra-sp-red)
**Bucephalandra sp. 'Red'** — Araceae · plant
Bucephalandra Red is a freshwater epiphytic variety with reddish leaves. Its coloration intensifies under strong light.
This Bucephalandra variety is distinguished by its oval to lanceolate leaves, ranging from green to dark red depending on lighting. The creeping rhizomes attach to hard surfaces. Its growth is slow and compact. It produces small white spathe flowers when emersed. In aquariums, it remains submerged and forms dense clumps. The red color is more pronounced with moderate to high light and iron supplementation. It does not require CO2 but benefits from it.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-5. Moderate light to maintain red coloration. CO2 optional. Attach the rhizome to a rock or wood, do not bury it. Iron-rich liquid fertilizer recommended. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp. Avoid bottom-dwelling fish. Prune damaged leaves to stimulate growth.

##### [Crinum calamistratum](/encyclopedia/crinum-calamistratum)
**Crinum calamistratum** — Amaryllidaceae · plant
Crinum calamistratum is a bulbous plant with long wavy leaves, very hardy and suitable for large aquariums.
Crinum calamistratum has a large elongated bulb (up to 10 cm) from which ribbon-like, wavy, dark green leaves emerge, reaching 60 cm in length and 2-3 cm wide. The leaves are thick and leathery. The plant does not produce an emergent stem in aquariums, but can flower under optimal conditions with a scape bearing fragrant white flowers. It grows slowly but is very robust. It tolerates a wide range of parameters. Propagation is by division of bulbils.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy plant, ideal for beginners. Temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 2-20, KH 2-15. Low to moderate lighting. CO₂ not needed. Minimum tank volume 60 liters, but prefers large tanks (100 L+) for its long leaves. Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Slow growth, does not require frequent trimming. Compatible with most fish. Propagation by separating bulbils. Be careful not to bury the bulb completely, the neck must remain visible.

##### [Crinum natans](/encyclopedia/crinum-natans)
**Crinum natans** — Amaryllidaceae · plant
Aquatic bulb plant with long, dark green ribbon-like leaves, ideal for background in aquariums.
Crinum natans is an aquatic bulb plant from West Africa. Its leaves can reach 1.5 meters in length, wavy and dark green. The bulb should be partially buried in the substrate. It produces white lily-like flowers when emergent. Growth is slow to moderate. It prefers soft to moderately hard water. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate various conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 150cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 2-8. Moderate to high lighting. CO2 recommended for better growth. Nutrient-rich substrate. Minimum tank size 100L. Background or solitary specimen. Propagation by bulb division. Compatible with most peaceful fish.

##### [Thai crinum](/encyclopedia/crinum-thaianum)
**Crinum thaianum** — Amaryllidaceae · plant
Aquatic bulb plant from Thailand with long wavy green leaves, suitable for large aquariums.
Crinum thaianum is an aquatic bulb plant from Thailand. Its leaves are long, ribbon-like and wavy, reaching up to 1 meter. The bulb is large and should be partially planted. It produces emergent white flowers. Slow growth. Prefers soft to moderately hard water. It is smaller than Crinum natans but still imposing.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 2-8. Moderate to high lighting. CO2 recommended. Rich substrate. Minimum tank 80L. Background plant. Propagation by bulb division. Compatible with peaceful fish.

##### [Aponogeton-leaved crypt](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-aponogetifolia)
**Cryptocoryne aponogetifolia** — Araceae · plant
Aquatic plant with long wavy leaves, easy to maintain.
Cryptocoryne aponogetifolia is an aquatic plant from the Araceae family, native to Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its long, wavy, slightly translucent green leaves, reaching up to 50 cm. It grows in a rosette and is ideal for midground or background in an aquarium. It prefers a rich substrate and moderate light. Growth is slow to moderate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Moderate light (0.5W/L). CO2 optional but beneficial. Avoid sudden parameter changes. Leaves may melt during adaptation. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5.

##### [Beckett's cryptocoryne](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-beckettii)
**Cryptocoryne beckettii** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne beckettii is a robust plant with green to brown leaves, ideal for freshwater aquariums.
This cryptocoryne has lanceolate leaves colored olive green to reddish brown. It grows in a rosette and can reach 15 cm in height. It is very adaptable and tolerates a wide range of conditions. Its growth is slow to moderate. It can flower underwater with a typical Araceae inflorescence. It is an ideal background or midground plant for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Cryptocoryne beckettii prefers low to moderate light. CO2 supplementation is not essential but promotes growth. Water parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. It may experience 'melting' during sudden changes in conditions. It propagates via stolons. Compatible with most fish. Avoid strong light which may promote algae on leaves.

##### [Bullosa crypt](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-bullosa)
**Cryptocoryne bullosa** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne bullosa is distinguished by its unique bullate (blistered) leaves. A collector's plant requiring attentive care.
This crypt is remarkable for its textured foliage: leaves have bumps (bullae) between the veins, giving a quilted appearance. Dark green to reddish-brown, it stays modest in size (10-15 cm). Growth is slow and it prefers soft, acidic water. It is more demanding than other crypts and can be sensitive to changes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires soft, acidic water (pH 5.5-6.5), moderate lighting, and a nutrient-rich substrate. Avoid fluctuations. CO2 fertilization is beneficial.

##### [Crisped cryptocoryne](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-crispatula)
**Cryptocoryne crispatula** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne crispatula is a large plant with wavy, elongated leaves, perfect for the background.
This species is distinguished by its long, narrow leaves with strongly wavy margins. It can reach 50 cm in height. Its color ranges from light green to reddish brown depending on light. It grows in a rosette and produces stolons. Its growth is moderate. It is often used as a background plant in large aquariums. It can flower with a typical spadix.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Cryptocoryne crispatula requires moderate to high light to maintain its wavy form. CO2 supplementation is beneficial. Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. A nutrient-rich substrate is important. It tolerates a wide range of conditions but prefers soft to moderately hard water. It propagates via stolons. Watch for melting during changes. Suitable for aquariums over 100 liters.

##### [Yellow cryptocoryne](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-lutea)
**Cryptocoryne lutea** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne lutea is a small cryptocoryne with yellow-green leaves, ideal for the foreground.
This species has oval to lanceolate leaves of pale yellow-green color. It forms a compact rosette and does not exceed 10-15 cm. Its growth is slow. It prefers moderate light. It is often confused with Cryptocoryne parva but differs by its lighter color. It can flower underwater. It is an excellent foreground plant for small aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 12cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Cryptocoryne lutea is easy to grow. Moderate light is sufficient. CO2 optional. Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial. It tolerates varied conditions. Avoid strong light which may burn leaves. Minimum tank size: 20 liters. Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Propagation by stolons.

##### [Dwarf crypt](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-parva)
**Cryptocoryne parva** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne parva is the smallest species of the genus, forming a dense carpet of light green leaves. Ideal for aquarium foregrounds.
The leaves are lanceolate, 2–5 cm long, bright green. The plant grows slowly and stays low, not exceeding 10 cm. It spreads via underground stolons, creating a uniform carpet. Unlike other cryptocorynes, it does not develop large submerged leaves. Growth is favored by moderate lighting and a rich substrate. It may shed leaves during sudden parameter changes but recovers easily.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–6.5, GH 3–8. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended, but it tolerates plain sand with liquid fertilization. CO2 addition is not essential but speeds growth. Avoid strong currents. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Regular trimming of stolons controls spread. Beware of snails that may damage young shoots.

##### [Cryptocoryne spiral](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-spiralis)
**Cryptocoryne spiralis** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne spiralis is a popular aquarium plant, appreciated for its wavy leaves and ease of care.
This aquatic plant has lanceolate to wavy leaves, green to brownish in color. It forms a basal rosette and can reach 30 cm in height. Growth is slow to moderate. It spreads via stolons and can form dense carpets. In aquariums, it prefers low to moderate light. It is sensitive to sudden parameter changes, which can cause crypt melt.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Cryptocoryne spiralis is an easy plant to maintain. It tolerates temperatures of 22-28°C and pH 6.0-7.5, with low to moderate lighting. CO2 addition is not necessary but can be beneficial. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. It is suitable for aquariums of at least 20 liters. Avoid sudden water changes. It is compatible with most peaceful fish. Propagation is done by dividing stolons.

##### [Undulated cryptocoryne](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-undulata)
**Cryptocoryne undulata** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne undulata is a medium-sized plant with wavy leaves, very popular in aquariums.
This cryptocoryne has lanceolate leaves with wavy margins, colored olive green to brown. It forms a compact rosette and reaches 20-30 cm. Its growth is slow to moderate. It adapts to different light levels but prefers moderate light. It can produce underwater flowers. It is a versatile plant for midground or foreground. It propagates via stolons.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Cryptocoryne undulata is easy to maintain. Moderate light is sufficient. CO2 optional. Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. It tolerates variable conditions but may melt if sudden changes. Regular trimming to control height. Compatible with most fish. Avoid fish that dig up roots.

##### [Wendt's crypt](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-wendtii)
**Cryptocoryne wendtii** — Araceae · plant
Wendt's crypt is a robust and versatile aquarium plant, available in several color varieties.
This plant has lanceolate to oval leaves, green to reddish-brown depending on variety. It can reach 15-30 cm. It grows from a rhizome. Known for its ability to adapt to different conditions. It may lose leaves during sudden changes (crypt melt) but regrows. Ideal for midground or background.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy to moderate. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. Low to moderate light. CO2 optional. Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Avoid sudden parameter changes. Can be planted in substrate. Compatible with most fish. Several varieties available: 'Green', 'Brown', 'Tropica'.

##### [Amazon sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-amazonicus)
**Echinodorus amazonicus** — Alismataceae · plant
The Amazon sword is a robust and popular plant, ideal for planted aquariums.
This plant forms a rosette of lanceolate, bright green leaves, reaching up to 50 cm. It develops a strong root system. Growth is fast under optimal conditions. It produces emergent flower stalks. In aquariums, it requires moderate to high lighting. It can be used as a background plant. It propagates via stolons and crown division.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Amazon sword is easy to grow. Ideal temperature is 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, with moderate to high lighting. CO2 supplementation improves growth. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. Minimum tank volume is 100 liters. It tolerates soft to moderately hard water. It is compatible with most fish. Propagation is done by dividing offshoots.

##### [Amazon sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-bleheri)
**Echinodorus bleheri** — Alismataceae · plant
The Amazon sword is a large background plant with lance-shaped leaves. Very popular in aquariums for its hardiness.
The leaves are elongated, bright green, up to 50 cm long. The plant develops a strong root system. It produces flower stalks that bear plantlets. Growth is fast under favorable conditions. It can be used as a background or solitary plant. Older leaves yellow and should be removed. It tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15. Moderate to high lighting (0.7 W/L) is beneficial. A nutrient-rich substrate is essential, with root tabs. CO2 addition is not mandatory but improves growth. Requires a large tank (minimum 100 L) due to its size. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Prune damaged leaves at the base.

##### [Heart-leaved sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-cordifolius)
**Echinodorus cordifolius** — Alismataceae · plant
The heart-leaved sword is distinguished by its large heart-shaped leaves.
This plant produces heart-shaped (cordate) leaves, light green, reaching up to 40 cm. It forms a dense rosette. Growth is moderate to fast. It can flower when emersed. In aquariums, it prefers moderate to high lighting. It is larger than the Amazon sword and requires more space. It propagates via stolons.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Heart-leaved sword is a medium to large plant. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, with moderate to high lighting. CO2 addition is beneficial. A nutrient-rich substrate is important. Minimum tank volume: 150 liters. It can be planted in the background. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by dividing stolons.

##### [Osiris sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-osiris)
**Echinodorus osiris** — Alismataceae · plant
The Osiris sword is an elegant plant with reddish leaves, highly prized in aquascaping.
This plant has lanceolate leaves, olive green to reddish, with prominent veins. It reaches 20-40 cm. Growth is moderate. It produces flower stalks with small white flowers. In aquariums, it requires moderate to high lighting to develop its colors. It propagates via stolons. It is sensitive to iron deficiency.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Osiris sword is of medium difficulty. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, with moderate to high lighting. CO2 and fertilizer (iron) supplementation is recommended. A nutrient-rich substrate is important. Minimum tank volume: 80 liters. Can be planted in midground or background. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by dividing stolons.

##### [Ozelot sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-ozelot)
**Echinodorus ozelot** — Alismataceae · plant
Large spotted leaves, very decorative. Easy to grow, suitable for medium to large aquariums.
Echinodorus ozelot is a rosette plant that produces long lanceolate leaves, light green with characteristic brown-red spots. It can reach 30-40 cm in height. It grows quickly and absorbs nitrates well. It sometimes flowers above water. Ideal as a background or midground plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires moderate to high lighting, a nutrient-rich substrate (root tabs recommended). Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Regular pruning to avoid shading.

##### [Small-flowered sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-parviflorus)
**Echinodorus parviflorus** — Alismataceae · plant
The small-flowered sword is a compact plant, ideal for small aquariums.
This plant forms a rosette of lanceolate, dark green leaves, measuring 15-25 cm. Growth is slow to moderate. It produces small white flowers when emersed. In aquariums, it prefers moderate lighting. It is less demanding than other Echinodorus. It propagates via stolons and can form a carpet.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Small-flowered sword is easy to maintain. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, with moderate lighting. CO2 addition is not essential. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. Minimum tank volume: 40 liters. Suitable for foreground or midground. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by dividing stolons.

##### [Dwarf chain sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-tenellus)
**Echinodorus tenellus** — Alismataceae · plant
Dwarf chain sword is a foreground plant that forms a light green lawn. Ideal for nano tanks.
The leaves are linear, 3–10 cm long, soft green. The plant spreads quickly via stolons, creating a continuous carpet. It stays low, not exceeding 15 cm. It can flower when emersed. Growth is fast under good lighting. Often confused with Echinodorus tenellus 'Micro' but larger.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate to high lighting (0.5–0.8 W/L) is needed for a dense carpet. A nutrient-rich substrate promotes growth. CO2 addition is not essential but speeds spread. Tolerates slightly brackish water. Suitable for tanks of 20 L and more. Compatible with shrimp and peaceful fish. Trim stolons to control spread.

##### [Uruguay sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-uruguayensis)
**Echinodorus uruguayensis** — Alismataceae · plant
Slender plant with ribbon-like leaves, perfect for the background. Fast and easy growth.
Echinodorus uruguayensis is characterized by its long, narrow, bright green leaves that can reach 50 cm. It forms a dense rosette and spreads by runners. It is very hardy and adapts to various conditions. Often used to create a hedge effect or fill the background of aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to high lighting. Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Prune old leaves to stimulate growth.

##### [Fontinalis moss](/encyclopedia/fissidens-fontanus)
**Fissidens fontanus** — Fissidentaceae · plant
Aquatic moss forming dense cushions, very decorative and easy to attach.
Fissidens fontanus is a slow-growing aquatic moss with small leaves arranged in two rows. It forms compact dark green cushions. Its stems are branched and attach to hard surfaces. It prefers cool, well-oxygenated water. In the aquarium, it needs moderate light and gentle flow. No CO2 required but appreciates light fertilization. Ideal for natural aquariums and shrimp tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 15-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 10L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Keep temperature 15-26°C, pH 6-7.5. Moderate light, avoid intense direct light. No CO2 needed, but liquid NPK fertilization promotes growth. Soft to moderately hard water. Gentle flow is beneficial. Trim yellowed parts. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp. Can be tied to rock or wood with fishing line.

##### [Willow Moss](/encyclopedia/fontinalis-antipyretica)
**Fontinalis antipyretica** — Fontinalaceae · plant
Robust aquatic moss from cold waters, forming long leafy stems. Ideal for coldwater or temperate tanks.
Willow moss is a robust aquatic moss from cold, flowing waters. Its stems are erect or drooping, covered with dark green lanceolate leaves. It forms dense clumps and can reach 30 cm in length. It prefers cool, well-oxygenated water. In the aquarium, it is ideal for coldwater or temperate tanks. It provides an excellent spawning substrate for fish. Its growth is moderate to fast depending on conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 15-24°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Willow moss requires cool water between 15 and 24°C and good water flow. Moderate lighting is sufficient, but it tolerates stronger light. CO2 is not necessary. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5-7.5) and medium hardness are suitable. It can be attached to rocks or left floating. Regular trimming prevents it from becoming too invasive. It is sensitive to high temperatures and organic pollution.

##### [Hypnoid Willow Moss](/encyclopedia/fontinalis-hypnoides)
**Fontinalis hypnoides** — Fontinalaceae · plant
Aquatic moss similar to willow moss, but preferring calm waters. Forms dense green mats.
Hypnoid willow moss is an aquatic moss with creeping or ascending stems, densely leafy. Its leaves are oval-lanceolate, medium green. It forms dense mats on hard substrates. Unlike Fontinalis antipyretica, it tolerates calm, less oxygenated waters better. Its growth is moderate. It is often used in coldwater or temperate aquariums. It provides good shelter for small fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 15-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 15L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This moss prefers cool water (15-24°C) but tolerates higher temperatures up to 26°C. Low to moderate lighting is suitable. CO2 is not needed. A pH of 6 to 7.5 and low to medium hardness are ideal. It attaches easily to decorations. Regular trimming keeps it compact. It can be grown floating. Avoid excess nutrients to limit algae.

##### [Duckweed](/encyclopedia/lemna-minor)
**Lemna minor** — Araceae · plant
Duckweed is a very common small floating plant, often used in aquariums to absorb nitrates and provide cover.
Lemna minor is a floating aquatic plant of the Araceae family. It measures 1 to 5 mm in diameter, with one or two light green oval leaves and a single fine root. It reproduces quickly by vegetative division, forming dense colonies. In an aquarium, it can cover the entire surface if not controlled. It is very hardy and adapts to various water conditions. It serves as a refuge for fry and invertebrates. Its rapid growth makes it an excellent biological filter.
Parameters: Temperature 15-30°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 0.5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Duckweed is very easy to grow. It thrives under moderate to strong lighting, with a temperature of 15-30°C. A pH of 6.0-8.0 and low to moderate hardness are suitable. It absorbs nitrates and phosphates, helping to control algae. Avoid strong water flow that scatters the plants. Regular trimming is necessary to prevent total shading. It can be easily removed with a net. Be careful not to introduce it accidentally into natural waterways.

##### [Star Duckweed](/encyclopedia/lemna-trisulca)
**Lemna trisulca** — Araceae · plant
Submerged or floating duckweed with elongated three-lobed fronds, very discreet.
Lemna trisulca has elongated fronds 0.5-1 cm, often submerged, with three distinct lobes. It forms chains by budding. It can float on the surface or stay underwater depending on light. Growth is moderate. It is often confused with other duckweeds. It provides shelter for microorganisms.
Parameters: Temperature 15-25°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 5L, Size 1cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 15-25°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15, KH 1-10. Low to moderate lighting. No CO2. Slow to moderate growth. Remove excess if needed. Compatible with all fish. Minimum tank volume 5 L. Tolerates cool temperatures. Ideal for nano aquariums.

##### [Stringy Moss](/encyclopedia/leptodictyum-riparium)
**Leptodictyum riparium** — Hypnaceae · plant
Fine, fast-growing aquatic moss, ideal for creating light mats. Very easy to grow.
Stringy moss is a fine, delicate aquatic moss forming dense, light mats. Its stems are highly branched, with small narrow leaves. It grows quickly and adapts to a wide range of conditions. It is often used as a foreground plant or to create moss effects on decorations. It can also be grown floating. Its fast growth helps control algae by absorbing nutrients.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 3-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stringy moss is very easy to grow, tolerating temperatures from 18 to 28°C. Low to moderate lighting is sufficient, but stronger light speeds up growth. CO2 is not needed. Water can be soft to hard, with a pH of 6 to 8. It attaches easily to rough surfaces. Occasional liquid fertilization is beneficial. It can be trimmed regularly to maintain a compact shape. Beware of algae if lighting is too intense.

##### [Amazon frogbit](/encyclopedia/limnobium-laevigatum)
**Limnobium laevigatum** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Amazon frogbit is a floating plant with round, velvety leaves. Highly valued for its decorative look and filtering role.
Leaves are heart-shaped, 2–5 cm, light green, with a velvety texture. Roots hang in the water, thin and long. The plant reproduces via stolons, forming dense colonies. It absorbs nitrates and phosphates, helping tank balance. Can be used to shade low-light areas. Beware of currents that may submerge it.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. No substrate needed. Avoid strong currents. Remove dead leaves regularly. Can be invasive; thin out weekly. Compatible with all fish. Roots provide shelter for fry.

##### [Sponge plant](/encyclopedia/limnobium-spongia)
**Limnobium spongia** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Floating plant with round, spongy leaves, providing shade and shelter. Very easy care, ideal for open tanks.
Limnobium spongia is a floating plant with heart-shaped leaves 5-10 cm in diameter. Their spongy texture allows flotation. Roots hang in the water, providing shelter for fry. It grows quickly under moderate light and absorbs nitrates. Beware of overgrowth.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 5-15. Moderate lighting. No CO2 needed. Remove excess leaves regularly to avoid shading. Propagation by dividing stolons.

##### [Needle leaf ludwigia](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-arcuata)
**Ludwigia arcuata** — Onagraceae · plant
Fine stem plant with narrow leaves, ideal for the background. Colors vary from green to red depending on lighting.
Ludwigia arcuata is a slender stem plant with opposite, linear leaves 2-4 cm long. Under intense lighting, the leaves turn orange-red. It grows quickly and is easy to prune. Highly valued for creating color contrasts in the aquarium. Can be grown emersed.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
High lighting to develop red colors. CO2 and liquid fertilization recommended. Regular pruning to maintain a bushy shape.

##### [Glandular ludwigia](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-glandulosa)
**Ludwigia glandulosa** — Onagraceae · plant
Fine-stemmed aquatic plant with lanceolate leaves and reddish coloration under strong light. Ideal for background planting.
Ludwigia glandulosa is an aquatic plant native to North American wetlands. Its erect stems can reach 50 cm in height. Leaves are opposite, lanceolate, olive green to bright red depending on light intensity. It produces small yellow flowers at the surface. In aquariums, it requires moderate to high lighting and CO2 supplementation to develop its best colors.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Keep temperature between 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8. Intense lighting (0.5-1 W/L) promotes red coloration. Regular liquid fertilizer and CO2 supplementation recommended. Prune regularly to prevent legginess.

##### [Marsh ludwigia](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-palustris)
**Ludwigia palustris** — Onagraceae · plant
Marsh ludwigia is a stem plant with green to reddish leaves, smaller than L. repens. Ideal for midgrounds and backgrounds.
Leaves are opposite, oval to lanceolate, 1–3 cm, light green to red depending on lighting. The stem is thin and can become creeping. Growth is fast. It produces insignificant yellow flowers. Often used in low-tech tanks. Lower leaves may drop if light is low.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 18–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient, but stronger light intensifies colors. A nutrient-rich substrate and liquid fertilization are beneficial. CO2 addition is not needed. Easy to propagate by cuttings. Compatible with coldwater or tropical fish. Avoid temperatures above 28°C.

##### [Creeping ludwigia](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-repens)
**Ludwigia repens** — Onagraceae · plant
Creeping ludwigia is a stem plant with oval green to reddish leaves. Widely used for backgrounds or midgrounds.
Leaves are opposite, oval, 2–4 cm, olive green to copper red depending on lighting. The stem is thin and can creep or grow upright. Growth is fast. It produces small yellow flowers when emersed. Can be pruned to encourage branching. Lower leaves tend to drop if light is insufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate to high lighting (0.7 W/L) is needed for red colors. A nutrient-rich substrate and liquid fertilization rich in iron are recommended. CO2 addition improves growth and coloration. Easy to propagate by cuttings: cut a stem and replant. Compatible with most fish. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Java fern](/encyclopedia/microsorum-pteropus)
**Microsorum pteropus** — Polypodiaceae · plant
Java fern is a very hardy and easy aquarium plant, suitable for all levels.
This fern has dark green, leathery leaves of variable shape (lanceolate to lobed). It can reach 20-30 cm. It grows from a creeping rhizome. Leaves can produce plantlets on their edges. It should not be planted in substrate. It prefers moderate light. Often used as background or midground plant.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy to maintain. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. Low to medium light. No CO2 needed. Attach rhizome to decor. Plantlets can be detached and replanted. Compatible with most fish. Watch for algae if light is too strong.

##### [Narrow Leaf Java Fern](/encyclopedia/microsorum-pteropus-narrow)
**Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow'** — Polypodiaceae · plant
A variety of Java fern with very narrow, elongated leaves, giving a light and elegant appearance. Perfect for planted tanks.
Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow' has linear leaves 20-30 cm long, bright green, undivided. This slender shape allows creating dense backgrounds without blocking the view. It is a robust epiphyte that easily attaches to supports. Growth is slow and requires little maintenance. Old leaves produce plantlets that can be detached for propagation.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy plant, ideal for beginners. Low to moderate light, no CO2 required. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. A liquid fertilizer rich in potassium is recommended. Do not bury the rhizome. Can be used as background or attached to a central root. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Regular trimming of overly long leaves controls its height.

##### [Java Fern Trident](/encyclopedia/microsorum-pteropus-trident)
**Microsorum pteropus 'Trident'** — Polypodiaceae · plant
A variety of Java fern with narrow leaves deeply divided into three lobes, resembling a trident. Robust and easy plant.
Microsorum pteropus 'Trident' is distinguished by its light to dark green leaves, 20-30 cm long, divided into three pointed segments. This particular shape brings a unique texture to the aquarium. Like all Java ferns, it is an epiphyte that must be attached to wood or stones. Growth is slow but steady. It tolerates parameter fluctuations well. Plantlets often appear on the edges of old leaves.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy plant, suitable for beginners. Low to medium light, no CO2 needed. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. A balanced liquid fertilizer promotes growth. Avoid planting the rhizome in the substrate. Can be used as background or midground. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Occasional trimming of old leaves maintains its aesthetic appearance.

##### [Java Fern Windelov](/encyclopedia/microsorum-pteropus-windelov)
**Microsorum pteropus 'Windelov'** — Polypodiaceae · plant
A dwarf variety of Java fern with branched leaf tips resembling deer antlers. Ideal for planted tanks and paludariums.
Microsorum pteropus 'Windelov' is a slow-growing epiphytic fern. Its dark green leaves are 10-20 cm long and split at the tips into several lobes. This unique morphology gives it a bushy and decorative appearance. It should not be planted in the substrate but attached to driftwood or rock. It tolerates a wide range of water conditions. Reproduction occurs by rhizome division or by the formation of plantlets on old leaves.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This fern is very easy to maintain. Low to moderate light is sufficient; too much light may promote algae. CO2 is not required but can improve growth. Ideal temperature is between 20 and 28°C. pH can range from 6.0 to 7.5. Regular liquid fertilizer is beneficial. It suits nano tanks and large aquariums. Avoid burying it; simply attach it to a decoration. Compatible with all peaceful fish.

##### [Thai Fern](/encyclopedia/microsorum-thailandicum)
**Microsorum thailandicum** — Polypodiaceae · plant
An epiphytic fern native to Thailand, with dark green undulated leaves. Less common than Java varieties, but equally easy.
Microsorum thailandicum is characterized by thick, leathery leaves, 15-25 cm long, slightly wavy on the edges. Its texture is more rigid than other Microsorum. It grows slowly and remains modest in size. Like all ferns of this genus, it is an epiphyte that prefers to be attached rather than planted. It tolerates variable water conditions. Propagation is by rhizome division or by cuttings of plantlets.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy plant, suitable for freshwater aquariums. Low to medium light, no CO2 needed. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. A complete liquid fertilizer is beneficial. Attach it to a root or stone, do not bury it. Suitable for small and large tanks. Compatible with fish and shrimp. Good water flow prevents deposits on leaves.

##### [Dwarf Java fern](/encyclopedia/microsorum-triglossum)
**Microsorum triglossum** — Polypodiaceae · plant
A small, easy-to-care epiphytic fern, perfect for beginners.
Microsorum triglossum is a dwarf fern from the Polypodiaceae family. It grows slowly and stays compact, with dark green fronds of 5-15 cm. It naturally attaches to wood or rocks without needing substrate. Very hardy, it tolerates a wide range of water parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Do not bury the rhizome. Low to moderate light. CO2 not required but beneficial. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Tiger lotus](/encyclopedia/nymphaea-lotus)
**Nymphaea lotus** — Nymphaeaceae · plant
Tiger-striped floating leaf water lily, very decorative, requires a large aquarium.
Nymphaea lotus is a tropical bulbous water lily. Its submerged leaves are green with purple spots, while floating leaves are green. White or pink flowers open at night. In the aquarium, it develops long stems and large leaves. It requires strong light and rich substrate. Growth is fast with CO2 supplementation. It can cover the surface, providing shade. Ideal as a background or centerpiece plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Medium difficulty. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5. Strong light (0.5-1 W/L). CO2 recommended for optimal growth. Nutrient-rich substrate (aquasoil). Soft to moderately hard water. Trim floating leaves to control shading. Liquid and root fertilization. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid digging fish. Propagation by bulb division.

##### [Red lotus](/encyclopedia/nymphaea-rubra)
**Nymphaea rubra** — Nymphaeaceae · plant
The red lotus is a bulbous plant with reddish floating leaves and pink to red flowers, highly ornamental in aquariums.
Nymphaea rubra is distinguished by its floating leaves often tinged with red or purple, especially under strong light. The bulbous rhizome produces long flexible stems. Submerged leaves are smaller and oval. The flowers, held above the water, are 10-15 cm and bright pink to red. The plant can reach 40 cm in height. It grows rapidly in summer and goes dormant in winter. In aquariums, it requires sufficient surface space. Propagation is by bulb division or seeds.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy to grow, it requires intense lighting to develop its red colors. Temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 2-10. An iron-rich substrate is beneficial. CO₂ optional. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Avoid strong currents. A winter rest period at 15-18 °C is recommended. Propagation by bulb division. Beware of iron deficiency which causes leaves to pale.

##### [Star lotus](/encyclopedia/nymphaea-stellata)
**Nymphaea stellata** — Nymphaeaceae · plant
The star lotus is a bulbous aquatic plant highly valued in aquascaping for its star-shaped floating leaves and white or pink flowers.
Nymphaea stellata has a bulbous rhizome from which long stems emerge bearing submerged and floating leaves. The floating leaves are round to slightly lobed, with a characteristic notch, and reach up to 20 cm in diameter. The upper side is dark green, the underside often reddish. The solitary flowers bloom at the surface, with white petals tinged with pink or blue. The plant produces stolons and can form colonies. In aquariums, it requires a winter rest period to flower. It is a dioecious species, but flowers are usually sterile in cultivation.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
An easy plant to grow, it prefers a nutrient-rich substrate and moderate to intense lighting. Ideal temperature is between 22 and 28 °C, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Soft to moderately hard water is suitable (GH 2-15, KH 2-10). CO₂ supplementation is not essential but promotes growth. A minimum tank volume of 80 liters is recommended to allow space for floating leaves. Avoid strong currents. Propagation can be done by dividing the bulb or by seeds. Beware of snails that can damage young leaves. A rest period of a few weeks at lower temperature (15-18 °C) stimulates flowering.

##### [Water lettuce](/encyclopedia/pistia-stratiotes)
**Pistia stratiotes** — Araceae · plant
Water lettuce is a floating plant with velvety rosette leaves. Very decorative and useful for shading the aquarium.
Leaves are spoon-shaped, 5–15 cm, light green, covered with fine hairs making them hydrophobic. Roots are long and feathery, up to 30 cm. The plant reproduces via stolons, producing daughter rosettes. It absorbs nutrients effectively. Can become invasive in warm regions. In aquariums, it needs sufficient surface space.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–30°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate to high lighting (0.5–0.8 W/L) is beneficial. No substrate. Avoid strong currents. Remove excess rosettes regularly. Roots provide shelter for fry. Beware of snails that may damage leaves. Can be used in outdoor ponds in summer.

##### [Dwarf water lettuce](/encyclopedia/pistia-stratiotes-minor)
**Pistia stratiotes minor** — Araceae · plant
Highly decorative floating plant, ideal for freshwater aquariums. Its light green rosettes provide shelter for fry.
Dwarf water lettuce is a miniature variety of common water lettuce. It forms rosettes of velvety leaves, 2-5 cm in diameter, with long feathery roots. It multiplies quickly via stolons and helps balance the aquarium by absorbing nitrates. It prefers moderate to bright lighting and calm water.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Avoid strong current that may submerge plants. Provide moderate lighting to prevent leaf burn. Regularly remove excess plants to prevent surface coverage.

##### [Crystalwort](/encyclopedia/riccia-fluitans)
**Riccia fluitans** — Ricciaceae · plant
Floating liverwort forming green cushions on the surface. Widely used in aquascaping to create carpets.
Riccia fluitans is an aquatic liverwort of the Ricciaceae family. It appears as green lobed thalli, floating freely or attached to substrates. The thalli are 1–3 cm long and branch dichotomously. It grows quickly on the surface and can form dense mats. In aquariums, it is often attached to rocks or wood to create moss-like effects. It prefers moderate to strong light. Without regular trimming, it can overrun the surface.
Parameters: Temperature 15-30°C, pH 5-8, GH 0-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 10L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Crystalwort is easy to maintain. It requires moderate to strong light for compact growth. Temperature between 15 and 30 °C, pH 5.0–8.0. No CO2 needed, but liquid fertilization improves color. Low flow is preferable. It can be kept floating or attached. Regular trimming is needed to prevent light blockage. Ideal for shrimp tanks and nano aquariums.

##### [Eared salvinia](/encyclopedia/salvinia-auriculata)
**Salvinia auriculata** — Salviniaceae · plant
Small floating fern with ear-shaped leaves covered in hydrophobic hairs. Fast growth, ideal for shading the aquarium.
Salvinia auriculata is a floating fern that forms dense mats on the surface. Its leaves are 1-3 cm, oval and slightly folded, with water-repellent hairs. Fine roots hang underwater. It multiplies quickly by fragmentation. Very effective at absorbing nutrients and reducing algae. Beware of overgrowth.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Moderate to bright lighting. No CO2. Remove excess regularly. Propagation by natural division.

##### [Water Spangles](/encyclopedia/salvinia-minima)
**Salvinia minima** — Salviniaceae · plant
Small floating fern with round hairy leaves, very easy to grow.
Salvinia minima forms rosettes of floating leaves 1-2 cm. Leaves are oval, covered with hydrophobic hairs. It has no roots, but modified submerged fronds. It multiplies quickly by division. It provides good cover for fry and reduces nitrates. In aquariums, it can cover the surface if not controlled.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 2cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15, KH 1-10. Low to moderate lighting (0.3-0.5 W/L). No CO2 needed. Fast growth, remove excess regularly. Compatible with all fish. Minimum tank volume 10 L. Avoid strong currents. Can be used in outdoor ponds in summer.

##### [Floating fern](/encyclopedia/salvinia-natans)
**Salvinia natans** — Salviniaceae · plant
Floating fern is a small floating fern with spoon-shaped leaves. Ideal for open aquariums.
Leaves are oval, 1–2 cm, light green, with a hairy surface that repels water. They are arranged in pairs along a floating stem. Roots are thin and short. The plant reproduces quickly by fragmentation. It can cover the entire surface if uncontrolled. Provides excellent shelter for fry and reduces light.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 18–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. No substrate. Avoid strong currents. Remove excess regularly to prevent tank suffocation. Compatible with all fish. Can be used in outdoor ponds in summer. Beware of high temperatures (>28°C) that may cause decline.

##### [Giant duckweed](/encyclopedia/spirodela-polyrhiza)
**Spirodela polyrhiza** — Araceae · plant
Fast-growing floating plant forming dense mats. Useful for nitrate absorption and as shelter for small fish.
Giant duckweed is the largest duckweed species. Each frond is 5-10 mm with multiple roots. It reproduces quickly by division and can cover the entire surface if uncontrolled. It prefers moderate to bright light and nutrient-rich water.
Parameters: Temperature 15-30°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 1cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Regularly control growth to prevent aquarium suffocation. Avoid strong current. Can be used in shrimp tanks.

##### [Alternate Java moss](/encyclopedia/taxiphyllum-alternans)
**Taxiphyllum alternans** — Hypnaceae · plant
Moss similar to Java moss, with more irregular growth and alternate leaves. Less common but equally easy.
Taxiphyllum alternans is an aquatic moss of the Hypnaceae family, very close to Taxiphyllum barbieri. Its stems are finer and its leaves are alternately arranged, giving it a more sparse appearance. It grows slowly and forms less dense clumps. It attaches easily to surfaces. It is used in aquascaping for natural effects. It provides good shelter for microfauna. It tolerates the same parameters as Java moss.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 5-8, GH 0-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Care is identical to Java moss. Low to moderate light, temperature 20–28 °C, pH 5.0–8.0. No CO2 needed. Moderate flow is acceptable. It can be attached to rocks or wood. Light trimming helps control its shape. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners. Compatible with shrimp and peaceful fish.

##### [Java moss](/encyclopedia/taxiphyllum-barbieri)
**Taxiphyllum barbieri** — Hypnaceae · plant
Very popular aquatic moss in aquariums, easy to grow and versatile. Ideal for community tanks.
Taxiphyllum barbieri is an aquatic moss of the Hypnaceae family. It forms dense clumps of fine, branched stems with small oval leaves. Its color is bright green. It grows slowly to moderately, attaching easily to surfaces. It is widely used in aquascaping to create carpets, trees, or moss walls. It provides excellent shelter for fry and shrimp. It tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 5-8, GH 0-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Java moss is very easy to care for. It accepts low to moderate light, but stronger light promotes denser growth. Temperature between 20 and 28 °C, pH 5.0–8.0. No CO2 needed, but liquid fertilization can be beneficial. Moderate flow is well tolerated. It can be attached with fishing line or glue. Occasional trimming keeps it compact. Compatible with all fish and shrimp.

##### [American eelgrass](/encyclopedia/vallisneria-americana)
**Vallisneria americana** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Long bright green ribbon-like leaves, very hardy and easy to grow. Perfect for background or carpeting.
Vallisneria americana is a robust aquatic plant forming clumps of linear leaves up to 1 meter long. It spreads quickly via stolons. Tolerates a wide range of parameters and is ideal for beginners. In aquariums, it prefers a rich substrate and moderate lighting. It can flower at the surface with small white flowers.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-12. Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Moderate lighting (0.3-0.5 W/L). Tolerates hard water. Remove old leaves. Propagation via stolons, divide clumps.

##### [Giant vallisneria](/encyclopedia/vallisneria-gigantea)
**Vallisneria gigantea** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Giant vallisneria is a very large background plant with leaves exceeding 1 meter. Ideal for large tanks.
Leaves are ribbon-like, dark green, 50–100 cm long, sometimes more. They are wider than those of V. spiralis. The plant spreads via vigorous stolons. It can cover the entire tank surface if uncontrolled. Very hardy and tolerates hard water. Leaves can be trimmed to desired length.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 150L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.5–8.0, GH 5–20. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. A sand or fine gravel substrate is acceptable. CO2 addition is not needed. Requires a large tank (minimum 150 L) due to its size. Compatible with large fish. Thin out regularly to avoid overgrowth.

##### [Dwarf vallisneria](/encyclopedia/vallisneria-nana)
**Vallisneria nana** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Small Vallisneria with short, fine leaves, perfect for small tanks or foreground. Fast and easy growth.
Vallisneria nana is a compact aquatic plant with light green leaves 20-40 cm long, narrower than Vallisneria americana. It quickly forms a dense carpet via stolons. Ideal for nano tanks, it requires moderate lighting and a nutrient-rich substrate. Tolerates tropical temperatures.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8. Moderate lighting (0.3-0.5 W/L). Enriched substrate. Fast growth, trim if needed. Propagation via stolons.

##### [Tape grass](/encyclopedia/vallisneria-spiralis)
**Vallisneria spiralis** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Tape grass is a background plant with long ribbon-like leaves. It grows quickly and produces stolons.
Leaves are linear, bright green, 30–60 cm long, slightly spiraled. The plant spreads via stolons, forming dense colonies. It can flower at the surface with small white flowers. Very hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. Leaves can be trimmed without damage. Often used in cichlid tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20–28°C, pH 6.5–8.0, GH 5–15. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. A sand or fine gravel substrate works. CO2 addition is not needed. Can become invasive; thin out regularly. Compatible with most fish, including moderate herbivores. Avoid apple snails that may eat young shoots.

##### [Singapore Moss](/encyclopedia/vesicularia-dubyana)
**Vesicularia dubyana** — Hypnaceae · plant
A very popular aquatic moss in aquascaping, forming dense bright green mats. Easy to grow, suitable for beginners.
Singapore moss is a slow-growing aquatic moss that forms dense bright green mats. Its fine, branching stems bear small oval leaves arranged in two rows. It attaches easily to rocks, driftwood, and decorations. In the aquarium, it provides shelter for fry and invertebrates. Its soft texture and natural appearance make it a foreground plant for aquascapes. It can also be used in paludariums or humid terrariums.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Singapore moss is very easy to maintain, suitable for beginners. It thrives under low to moderate lighting, without the need for CO2. Soft to moderately hard water is fine, with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The ideal temperature ranges from 20 to 28°C. It can be attached to supports using fishing line or glue. Regular trimming helps control its growth. It does not require specific fertilization, but liquid nutrients can enhance its density. Beware of filamentous algae in case of excess light or nutrients.

##### [Ferrie Moss](/encyclopedia/vesicularia-ferriei)
**Vesicularia ferriei** — Hypnaceae · plant
Aquatic moss close to Singapore moss, with a slightly finer texture. Ideal for natural aquascapes.
Ferrie moss is a delicate aquatic moss with very fine, branching stems. Its leaves are small, oval, and bright green. It forms dense, light mats, perfect for covering rocks and roots. Its growth is moderate and it adapts well to different lighting. It provides an excellent habitat for microorganisms and fry. In aquascaping, it is often used to create natural moss effects.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Ferrie moss is easy to grow, similar to Singapore moss. Low to moderate lighting is sufficient, no CO2 needed. Water should be soft to moderately hard, pH 5.5-7.5, temperature 20-28°C. It attaches easily to rough surfaces. Regular trimming keeps it compact. Liquid nutrients can improve density. Avoid excessive light to prevent algae.

##### [Rootless Duckweed](/encyclopedia/wolffia-arrhiza)
**Wolffia arrhiza** — Araceae · plant
The world's smallest flowering plant, forming green floating dots without roots.
Wolffia arrhiza is a tiny floating plant (0.1-0.2 mm) spherical or ellipsoidal in shape. It has no roots or stems, only a vegetative body. It reproduces by rapid budding. It forms a green carpet on the water surface. It is very rich in protein and used as fish food. In aquariums, it can proliferate quickly.
Parameters: Temperature 20-30°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 5L, Size 0.2cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 20-30°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15, KH 1-10. Low to moderate lighting. No CO2. Very fast growth in nutrient-rich water. Remove regularly to avoid smothering the aquarium. Compatible with all fish. Minimum tank volume 5 L. Ideal for fry tanks.

##### [Bettzick's Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-bettzickiana)
**Alternanthera bettzickiana** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Popular stem plant with reddish leaves, ideal for the background of a planted aquarium.
Alternanthera bettzickiana is an erect stem plant with opposite, lanceolate to ovate leaves, colored green to red depending on lighting. It can reach 30 cm in height. Growth is fast under moderate to high light. It develops adventitious roots along the stem. In aquariums, it forms a dense bush if pruned regularly. Lower leaves may drop if light is insufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-5. Moderate to high lighting (0.5-1 W/L). CO2 injection recommended for optimal growth. Liquid fertilizer and iron-rich substrate enhance red coloration. Regular pruning to prevent legginess. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Minimum tank volume 20 L, but prefers 40 L+.

##### [Figleaf Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-ficoidea)
**Alternanthera ficoidea** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Stem plant with variegated leaves in green, pink and red, very decorative in the aquarium.
Alternanthera ficoidea is distinguished by its elliptic leaves with colorful patterns (green, cream, pink, red). Stems are erect and branched. It reaches 20-30 cm in height. Color is more intense under strong lighting and with iron supplementation. It grows moderately fast and requires regular pruning. Lower leaves may yellow if light is low.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-5. Moderate to high lighting (0.5-1 W/L). CO2 recommended. Iron-rich fertilizer to maintain colors. Regular pruning to encourage branching. Compatible with peaceful fish. Minimum tank volume 20 L. Avoid burrowing fish.

##### [Alligator Weed](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-philoxeroides)
**Alternanthera philoxeroides** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Very hardy and invasive stem plant, used in paludariums or outdoor ponds.
Alternanthera philoxeroides is an aquatic or semi-aquatic plant with hollow, floating stems. Its leaves are opposite, oval, dark green, glossy. It can form dense mats on the surface. In aquariums, it grows quickly and can reach 60 cm. Its flowers are white, globular, in heads. It is known for its invasive nature in warm regions. In controlled cultivation, it is easy to maintain. It tolerates a wide range of conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 18-30°C, pH 6-8.5, GH 3-25
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate lighting (0.4-0.8 W/L) is sufficient. CO2 not needed. Temperature 18-30°C, pH 6-8.5, GH 3-25, KH 3-20. Nitrates <40 mg/L, phosphates <4 mg/L. Very tolerant of hardness. Fast growth, requires frequent trimming to prevent overgrowth. Suitable for outdoor ponds in summer. Caution: invasive species, do not release into nature. Compatible with most fish. Can be used as a floating plant.

##### [Reineck's Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-reineckii)
**Alternanthera reineckii** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Stem plant with green to bright red leaves, highly prized in aquascaping for its color contrast.
Alternanthera reineckii is an upright stem plant reaching up to 30 cm. Its leaves are opposite, lanceolate, ranging from olive green to intense red depending on lighting. It produces small white flowers in spikes when emersed. In aquariums, it develops a dense root system. Growth is moderate to fast with good CO2 supply. It is often used as a background or midground plant. Red coloration is enhanced by intense light and low nitrates.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
This plant requires moderate to high lighting (0.5-1 W/L) to develop its colors. CO2 supplementation (10-30 mg/L) is recommended for optimal growth. Ideal temperature is 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 2-10. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L, phosphates 2 mg/L. A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial. Regular pruning promotes branching. It is compatible with most fish and shrimp. Avoid burrowing fish that may uproot the stems.

##### [Dwarf Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-reineckii-mini)
**Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini'** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Dwarf variety of Alternanthera reineckii, ideal for small aquariums and foregrounds.
Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini' is a compact form usually not exceeding 15 cm. Its leaves are smaller and denser than the type species, with a bright red color under intense lighting. It forms a dense bush through abundant branching. Growth is moderate. It is widely used in aquascaping to create carpets or color patches. Stems are fragile and must be handled with care. It rarely flowers underwater.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Strong lighting (0.8-1.2 W/L) is necessary to maintain red color. CO2 (15-30 mg/L) improves growth and compactness. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-12, KH 2-8. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <2 mg/L. An iron-rich substrate is beneficial. Regular pruning to prevent legginess. Suitable for nano tanks (from 20 L). Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Rosanervig Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-reineckii-rosanervig)
**Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosanervig'** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Remarkable variety for its pink veins contrasting with green leaves, highly decorative.
Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosanervig' is distinguished by its bright pink veins on an olive-green to reddish background. Leaves are oval-lanceolate, medium-sized (5-8 cm). The plant reaches 20-25 cm in height. Growth is moderate. It produces sturdy stems and branches well. In aquariums, it requires moderate to high light to maintain vein contrast. Flowers are rare underwater. It is a midground to background plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-14
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Moderate to high lighting (0.6-1 W/L) to preserve pink veins. CO2 recommended (10-25 mg/L). Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-14, KH 2-10. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <2 mg/L. A nutrient-rich substrate with iron and potassium improves coloration. Regular pruning to encourage branching. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Avoid herbivorous fish like cichlids.

##### [Sessile Joyweed](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-sessilis)
**Alternanthera sessilis** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Robust and easy stem plant with green leaves, often used in background or paludarium.
Alternanthera sessilis is an amphibious plant with creeping or erect stems. Its leaves are sessile (without petiole), oval, bright green, sometimes tinged with red. It can reach 40 cm in aquariums. Growth is fast. It produces small white flowers in heads when emersed. Underwater, it adapts well but can become invasive. It is very hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. Used as background or emersed in paludariums.
Parameters: Temperature 20-30°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Low to moderate lighting (0.3-0.6 W/L) is sufficient, but stronger light promotes compact growth. CO2 not necessary but beneficial. Temperature 20-30°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-20, KH 2-15. Nitrates <30 mg/L, phosphates <3 mg/L. Tolerates hard water. Frequent trimming to control growth. Suitable for beginners. Compatible with all fish. Can be grown emersed. Beware of spreading roots.

##### [Hornwort](/encyclopedia/ceratophyllum-demersum)
**Ceratophyllum demersum** — Ceratophyllaceae · plant
Fast-growing floating or stem plant, excellent for oxygenation and filtration.
Ceratophyllum demersum is a rootless aquatic plant with thin, branched stems. Its leaves are whorled, fine and serrated, giving a feathery appearance. It can float freely or be planted in the substrate. Growth is very fast, effectively absorbing nitrates. It provides shelter for fry and invertebrates. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate to high light. No CO2 needed and tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 10-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy plant. Temperature 10-28°C, pH 6-8. Moderate to high light. No CO2 needed. Soft to hard water. Fast growth, trim regularly to prevent overgrowth. Can be left floating or planted. Compatible with all fish. Avoid very strong currents. Ideal for breeding tanks. Absorbs nitrates and phosphates.

##### [Soft hornwort](/encyclopedia/ceratophyllum-submersum)
**Ceratophyllum submersum** — Ceratophyllaceae · plant
Floating or rooted stem plant, finer than common hornwort, fast growth.
Ceratophyllum submersum resembles C. demersum but has finer, softer leaves. Whorls are less dense. It is often more delicate. It grows quickly and can form dense masses. It prefers calm, nutrient-rich waters. In the aquarium, it helps control algae by absorbing excess nutrients. No CO2 needed. Optimal growth with moderate light.
Parameters: Temperature 10-25°C, pH 6-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy to maintain. Temperature 10-25°C, pH 6-8. Moderate light. No CO2. Soft to hard water. Fast growth, trim regularly. Can float or be planted. Compatible with all fish. Avoid strong currents. Ideal for breeding tanks. Absorbs nitrates. Watch for sudden parameter changes.

##### [Narrow-leaved Hygrophila](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-angustifolia)
**Hygrophila angustifolia** — Acanthaceae · plant
Stem plant with long narrow leaves, fast growth, ideal for background.
Hygrophila angustifolia is a stem plant with linear-lanceolate leaves, light green. It can reach 40 cm in height. Growth is fast, making it a good nutrient absorber. It produces purple flower spikes emersed. It is easy to cultivate and tolerates a wide range of parameters. It is often used in the background to create a hedge effect. It propagates easily by cuttings.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 2-10. Lighting moderate to high. CO2 recommended for optimal growth. Minimum tank volume 80 L. Plant in groups in background. Regular trimming to control height. Compatible with most fish. Propagation by stem cuttings.

##### [Giant Hygrophila](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-corymbosa)
**Hygrophila corymbosa** — Acanthaceae · plant
Robust stem plant with large light green leaves, ideal for background.
Hygrophila corymbosa is a vigorous stem plant from Southeast Asia. Its leaves are opposite, lanceolate to oval, light to medium green. It can reach 50 cm in height and forms a dense clump. Under favorable conditions, it produces emergent purple flowers. Its fast growth makes it ideal for nitrate absorption. It is easy to cultivate and tolerates a wide range of parameters. It is often used in the background of planted aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 2-10. Lighting moderate to high. CO2 recommended for optimal growth. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Plant in groups in the background. Regular trimming to maintain shape. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Propagation by stem cuttings.

##### [Hygrophila difformis](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-difformis)
**Hygrophila difformis** — Acanthaceae · plant
Easy plant with highly dissected leaves, changes shape depending on conditions, very decorative.
Hygrophila difformis is a stem plant that can reach 30 cm in height. Its leaves are highly variable: submerged, they are deeply dissected, resembling feathers; emersed, they are oval and entire. This plasticity gives it its name. It grows quickly and forms dense bushes. It is highly valued for its unique appearance. It can be used as a midground or background plant. Growth is enhanced by good lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Medium lighting (0.5-0.8 W/L) is sufficient, but stronger light promotes more dissected leaves. CO2 is not mandatory but speeds up growth. Temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15 °d. It tolerates slightly hard water. Nitrates can reach 25 mg/L. Regular pruning keeps it compact. Propagates by cuttings. Minimum tank volume 20 L. Compatible with all peaceful fish.

##### [Lake Hygrophila](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-lacustris)
**Hygrophila lacustris** — Acanthaceae · plant
Stem plant with broad elongated leaves, fast growth, suitable for large aquariums.
Hygrophila lacustris is a stem plant with oblong-lanceolate leaves, light to medium green. It can reach 50 cm in height. Growth is fast and it forms dense clumps. It produces purple flower spikes emersed. It is easy to cultivate and tolerates a wide range of parameters. It is often used in the background of large aquariums. It propagates easily by stem cuttings.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 2-10. Lighting moderate to high. CO2 recommended. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Plant in groups in background. Regular trimming to control growth. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Pinnate Hygrophila](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-pinnatifida)
**Hygrophila pinnatifida** — Acanthaceae · plant
Stem plant with finely divided leaves resembling a fern, ideal for midground.
Hygrophila pinnatifida is a stem plant from India. Its leaves are pinnate, olive green to reddish brown, with narrow lobes. It reaches 15-30 cm in height. Growth is moderate. It produces adventitious roots along the stem. It can be used in midground or foreground. It prefers moderate to high lighting. With good CO2 supply, it develops more intense colors. It is appreciated for its unique appearance.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 2-8. Lighting moderate to high. CO2 recommended. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Plant in groups in midground. Regular trimming to avoid shading. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by stem cuttings or root division.

##### [Hygrophila polysperma](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-polysperma)
**Hygrophila polysperma** — Acanthaceae · plant
Very easy and hardy plant, ideal for beginners, grows quickly and absorbs nitrates.
Hygrophila polysperma is a stem plant that can reach 50 cm in height. Its leaves are opposite, oval to lanceolate, light green. It has very fast growth, making it an excellent starter plant. It can be grown submerged or emersed. Its roots develop easily. It is often used as a background plant. It can become invasive if not pruned regularly. It tolerates a wide range of conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant does not require CO2 or strong lighting; low to medium light is enough. Temperature 18-28 °C, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 2-20 °d. It grows even in hard water. Nitrates can be high (up to 40 mg/L) without issue. Frequent pruning is needed to control growth. It propagates easily from cuttings. Minimum tank volume 20 L. Compatible with all fish. Caution: it can be invasive in some regions.

##### [Willow-leaved Hygrophila](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-salicifolia)
**Hygrophila salicifolia** — Acanthaceae · plant
Stem plant with narrow willow-like leaves, fast growth.
Hygrophila salicifolia is a stem plant with linear, light green leaves resembling willow leaves. It can reach 40 cm in height. Growth is fast and it forms dense clumps. It produces blue-violet flower spikes emersed. It is easy to cultivate and adapts to various parameters. It is ideal for the background of planted aquariums. It propagates easily by stem cuttings.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 2-10. Lighting moderate to high. CO2 recommended. Minimum tank volume 80 L. Plant in groups in background. Regular trimming to avoid overcrowding. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Ludwigia inclinata](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-inclinata)
**Ludwigia inclinata** — Onagraceae · plant
Fine-stemmed plant with light green lanceolate leaves, often used in aquascaping for contrast.
Ludwigia inclinata is a slender stem plant reaching 40-60 cm. Its leaves are opposite, lanceolate, light green to slightly reddish under high light. It produces small yellow flowers at the surface. In aquariums, it grows fast and requires regular trimming. Growth is enhanced by strong lighting and CO2 supplementation. It can be used in the background or midground.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Ideal parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-8, KH 2-5. High lighting (0.5-1 W/L) required for good coloration. CO2 recommended (20-30 mg/L). Easy to moderate difficulty, fast growth. Regular trimming to avoid shading. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Liquid fertilizer and nutrient-rich substrate beneficial. Can be grown outdoors in summer.

##### [Ludwigia sedioides](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-sedioides)
**Ludwigia sedioides** — Onagraceae · plant
Floating or creeping plant with diamond-shaped leaves, very decorative at the surface.
Ludwigia sedioides is an amphibious plant with creeping or floating stems. Its leaves are alternate, rhombic, bright green with red veins. It forms dense mats on the surface. Flowers are yellow, solitary. In aquariums, it can be kept floating or planted in the background. Growth is fast under good light. Frequent trimming is needed to control spread.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-10, KH 2-6. Moderate to high lighting. CO2 optional but beneficial. Easy plant, fast growth. Ideal for open tanks or ponds. Compatible with surface fish. Liquid fertilizer recommended. Can be used as floating plant for shading.

##### [Rotala indica](/encyclopedia/rotala-indica)
**Rotala indica** — Lythraceae · plant
Fine-stemmed plant with narrow light green leaves, often confused with Rotala rotundifolia.
Rotala indica is a stem plant reaching 30-40 cm. Its leaves are opposite, linear to lanceolate, light green, becoming slightly reddish under high light. It produces small pink flowers. In aquariums, growth is fast and it forms dense bushes. It is ideal for the background. Regular trimming is needed to prevent legginess.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-8, KH 2-5. Moderate to high lighting. CO2 recommended for optimal growth. Easy plant. Regular trimming to maintain compact shape. Compatible with peaceful fish. Liquid fertilizer and nutrient-rich substrate beneficial. Can be grown outdoors.

##### [Rotala macrandra](/encyclopedia/rotala-macrandra)
**Rotala macrandra** — Lythraceae · plant
A fine-stemmed plant with red or pink leaves, highly valued in aquascaping for its color contrast.
Rotala macrandra is a stem plant that can reach 30 to 50 cm in height. Its leaves are opposite, oval to lanceolate, and turn bright red under intense lighting and CO2 supplementation. Growth is fast under optimal conditions. It forms dense clumps if pruned regularly. In the aquarium, it is often used as a background or midground plant. Its color ranges from green to red depending on light intensity and nutrient availability.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 40L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant requires strong lighting (at least 1 W/L) and CO2 supplementation of 20-30 mg/L to show its colors. Ideal temperature is between 22 and 28 °C, pH 6.0-7.5, and GH 2-12 °d. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended, but it can also absorb nutrients from the water column. Nitrates should stay below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 1.5 mg/L. Regular pruning encourages branching. It is compatible with most peaceful fish. A minimum tank volume of 40 L is advised for a small group.

##### [Rotala rotundifolia](/encyclopedia/rotala-rotundifolia)
**Rotala rotundifolia** — Lythraceae · plant
Fine-stemmed plant with round light green leaves, very popular in aquascaping for its changing colors.
Rotala rotundifolia is a stem plant reaching 30-50 cm. Its leaves are opposite, round to oval, light green, turning pink or red under high light. It produces small pink flowers in spikes. In aquariums, it grows fast and branches well. It is often used in background or midground. Coloration is influenced by light intensity and nutrients.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-8, KH 2-5. Moderate to high lighting for good coloration. CO2 recommended (20-30 mg/L). Easy to moderate plant. Regular trimming to promote branching. Compatible with most fish. Liquid fertilizer and nutrient-rich substrate beneficial. Can be grown outdoors.

##### [Rotala sp. 'Green'](/encyclopedia/rotala-sp-green)
**Rotala sp. 'Green'** — Lythraceae · plant
A green variety of Rotala, easy to grow, ideal for beginners in aquascaping.
Rotala sp. 'Green' is a fine-stemmed plant with light green leaves, reaching up to 40 cm in height. Its leaves are opposite, narrow and elongated. It grows quickly and forms dense bushes if pruned. Unlike Rotala macrandra, it stays green even under moderate lighting. It is very hardy and adapts to a wide range of parameters. In the aquarium, it is used as a background or midground plant. Its fast growth helps control algae by absorbing excess nutrients.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant tolerates low to moderate lighting, but medium light (0.5-0.8 W/L) promotes compact growth. CO2 is not essential but speeds up growth. Temperature 20-28 °C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15 °d. It accepts slightly hard water. Nitrates can reach 30 mg/L without issue. Regular pruning is recommended to prevent it from getting too tall. It propagates easily from cuttings. Suitable for nano tanks from 20 L. Compatible with all peaceful fish.

##### [Rotala Nanjenshan](/encyclopedia/rotala-sp-nanjenshan)
**Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'** — Lythraceae · plant
Fine-stemmed plant with narrow reddish leaves. Requires high light and CO2 to show its colors.
Upright stems reaching 30 cm, with opposite, linear leaves 1-2 cm long. Color ranges from green to bright red depending on light intensity and iron availability. Fast growth under optimal conditions. Regular trimming needed to maintain bushy shape. Small pink flowers appear at the surface. Sensitive to iron and CO2 deficiencies.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 40L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 3-8, KH 2-6. High light (1 W/L or more). CO2 essential (20-30 mg/L). Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Liquid fertilizer high in iron. Nitrates max 10 mg/L, phosphates max 1 mg/L. Minimum tank volume 40 liters. Plant in groups of 5 or more stems. Regular trimming to prevent legginess. Compatible with peaceful fish.

##### [Rotala wallichii](/encyclopedia/rotala-wallichii)
**Rotala wallichii** — Lythraceae · plant
Fine-stemmed plant with feathery light green leaves, very decorative and delicate.
Rotala wallichii is a stem plant reaching 30-50 cm. Its leaves are whorled, fine and feathery, light green to slightly reddish. It produces small pink flowers. In aquariums, it is highly valued for its airy appearance. Growth is fast under good light and CO2. Regular trimming is needed to prevent legginess. Ideal for background or as an accent plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-6, KH 1-4. High lighting required for good growth. CO2 essential (20-30 mg/L). Moderately difficult plant. Regular trimming to maintain shape. Compatible with peaceful fish. Liquid fertilizer and nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Sensitive to iron deficiency.

#### Invertebrates
Source : /encyclopedia/invertebres

##### [African filter shrimp](/encyclopedia/atya-gabonensis)
**Atya gabonensis** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Large African filter-feeding shrimp, peaceful, with fan-like legs, requires good current.
Atya gabonensis is a large filter-feeding shrimp, reaching up to 12 cm. It has long fan-like front legs to filter water. Its color is usually brown-grey with bluish hues. It is very peaceful and can coexist with non-aggressive fish. It spends time positioning itself in the current to feed. Growth is slow. It molts regularly.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10, KH 3-8. Moderate to strong current essential. Feed with micro-particles, powdered food. Minimum tank 100L. Group of 2+ possible. Compatible with peaceful fish. Sensitive to high nitrates. Avoid territorial fish.

##### [Rough filter shrimp](/encyclopedia/atya-scabra)
**Atya scabra** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Freshwater filter-feeding shrimp with a robust, rough body, adapted to fast currents. Feeds by filtering suspended particles.
Atya scabra can reach 5 cm. Its carapace is covered with small spines and granules, hence its name. The anterior legs have highly developed filtering setae. It lives in high-current areas, clinging to rocks. It is a nocturnal species feeding on plankton and organic debris. Reproduction requires a brackish water larval stage. Males are smaller than females. Its peaceful behavior makes it a good inhabitant for a species-specific aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters with strong current (powerhead). Parameters: temperature 22-28 °C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Diet: powdered food, phytoplankton, micro-particles. Peaceful but may be territorial with conspecifics. Keep in groups of 3 or more. Avoid fish that may compete for food. Regular water changes. Moderate difficulty.

##### [Bamboo shrimp](/encyclopedia/atyopsis-moluccensis)
**Atyopsis moluccensis** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Peaceful filter-feeding shrimp with long fan-like legs, ideal for planted tanks with current.
Bamboo shrimp is a filter-feeding species that uses its fan-like front legs to capture suspended particles. It can reach 8 cm. Coloration varies from brown to reddish with a light dorsal stripe. It is very peaceful and social. It requires moderate current to feed. It molts regularly. It is a hardy species but sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10, KH 3-8. Moderate current essential. Feed with micro-particles, spirulina powder, filter-feeder food. Minimum tank 60L. Group of 3+ recommended. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid predators. Sensitive to copper.

##### [Bamboo shrimp](/encyclopedia/atyopsis-spinipes)
**Atyopsis spinipes** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Freshwater filter-feeding shrimp with an elongated striped body, very popular in aquariums. Positions itself in the current to filter particles.
Atyopsis spinipes reaches up to 4 cm. Its body is yellow-brown with lighter longitudinal bands. The front legs are transformed into filtering fans. It often perches on rocks or roots facing the current. It is a gregarious and peaceful species. Reproduction is difficult in aquariums as larvae require brackish water. It molts regularly. Its filtering behavior is fascinating to observe.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 4cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 30 liters with good current. Parameters: temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Diet: suspended food, phytoplankton, fine powder. Keep in groups of 3 or more. Compatible with peaceful small fish. Avoid fish that may stress them. Regular water changes. Gentle filtration but strong current.

##### [Dwarf crayfish](/encyclopedia/cambarellus-diminutus)
**Cambarellus diminutus** — Cambaridae · invertebrate
One of the smallest freshwater crayfish, perfect for nano tanks due to its tiny size and discreet behavior.
Cambarellus diminutus is a dwarf crayfish reaching only 2-3 cm as an adult. Its coloration ranges from light brown to gray with darker patterns. It is very shy and spends most of its time hidden under leaves or in crevices. This peaceful species can coexist with small fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: DD
A tank of at least 20 liters with plenty of hiding spots (rocks, driftwood, plants). Water must be clean and well-oxygenated. Avoid large or aggressive fish. Feed with crustacean pellets, blanched vegetables, and small frozen foods.

##### [Dwarf orange crayfish](/encyclopedia/cambarellus-patzcuarensis)
**Cambarellus patzcuarensis** — Cambaridae · invertebrate
A small freshwater crayfish with bright orange coloration, very popular in the aquarium hobby. It is threatened in its natural habitat.
The dwarf orange crayfish reaches 4–5 cm as an adult. Its carapace is bright orange, sometimes with darker shades on the back. It has long antennae and slender claws. It is an active species that explores the substrate and hides in crevices. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial towards conspecifics. In the aquarium, it accepts a wide variety of foods. Reproduction is straightforward: the female carries eggs under her abdomen for about 3 weeks.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Keep in an aquarium of at least 30 L with soft to moderately hard water (pH 7–8, GH 5–10). The ideal temperature is 20–26 °C. A fine substrate and plenty of hiding places (rocks, roots, plants) are essential. The dwarf orange crayfish is omnivorous: it eats algae, vegetables, pellets, and animal protein. Avoid aggressive or large fish. Regular water changes are important to maintain good quality. Keep nitrates below 15 mg/L.

##### [Louisiana dwarf crayfish](/encyclopedia/cambarellus-shufeldtii)
**Cambarellus shufeldtii** — Cambaridae · invertebrate
A small, discreet freshwater crayfish, brownish-gray in color, easy to keep. It is ideal for nano-aquariums.
The Louisiana dwarf crayfish reaches 3–4 cm. Its coloration is brownish-gray with lighter spots, providing camouflage. Its claws are small and slender. It is a nocturnal and shy species, spending the day hidden under rocks or roots. It is very peaceful and can cohabit with small fish and shrimp. Its diet is omnivorous, feeding on detritus, algae, and small invertebrates. Reproduction is similar to other dwarf crayfish.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 20 L with soft to moderately hard water (pH 7–8, GH 5–10). Temperature 20–26 °C. A fine substrate and plenty of hiding places are needed. It is omnivorous and accepts fish food, vegetables, and protein. Avoid predatory fish. Regular water changes are important. It can be kept in groups if space is sufficient. Keep nitrates below 15 mg/L.

##### [Green shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-babaulti)
**Caridina babaulti** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Small freshwater shrimp with green coloration, discreet and effective for algae cleaning.
Caridina babaulti is a 2-3 cm shrimp, olive to bright green, sometimes with stripes. It is very peaceful and shy. It feeds on algae, biofilm, and microorganisms. It lives in groups and breeds in freshwater, but the larvae are planktonic and require very clean water. It is less common in the hobby than Neocaridina.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 3-6, KH 1-3. A planted tank with moss and leaf litter is recommended. Feed with fine foods and vegetables. Breeding is possible if water is stable and rich in microfauna. Avoid predatory fish. Sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Crystal red shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-cantonensis)
**Caridina cantonensis** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Freshwater shrimp highly prized for its red and white patterns, requiring stable water parameters.
Caridina cantonensis is a small shrimp (2-3 cm) whose Crystal Red variety has red and white bands. It is more sensitive than Neocaridina, requiring soft, acidic water. It is peaceful and lives in groups. It feeds on algae, biofilm, and specialized food. Breeding is possible but more delicate, with larvae requiring specific conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-6.8, GH 3-6
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Strict parameters: temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-6.8, GH 3-6, KH 0-2. RO water remineralized is recommended. A mature tank with plenty of plants and moss is essential. Feed with protein-rich and mineral-rich foods. Avoid fluctuations. Breeding requires gradual acclimation. Sensitive to copper and high nitrates.

##### [Cardinal Shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-dennerli)
**Caridina dennerli** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Cardinal Shrimp is an endemic species from Sulawesi, recognizable by its white spots on a bright red background. It is demanding in terms of water parameters.
This shrimp reaches 2-3 cm. Its body is bright red with small white spots arranged regularly, resembling a cardinal's robe. Legs are white. The rostrum is short. It lives in the hard, alkaline waters of Lake Matano. Its behavior is peaceful but sensitive to stress. It feeds mainly on biofilm and microalgae. Reproduction is difficult in captivity, requiring very stable conditions. Females carry few eggs (10-20) and the incubation period is long.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 6-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Critical parameters: temperature 26-30 °C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 6-10, KH 3-6. A minimum tank size of 40 liters is required. Specialized diet: biofilm, shrimp powders, mineral supplements. Very stable water, small and frequent water changes (10% weekly). Gentle filtration, no strong current. Inert substrate or sand. Avoid any fish. Reproduction is delicate, requires slow acclimation. Water that is too soft or acidic is lethal.

##### [Pinocchio Shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-gracilirostris)
**Caridina gracilirostris** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Pinocchio Shrimp is distinguished by its long pointed rostrum, reminiscent of Pinocchio's nose. It is active and colorful, with shades of red and brown.
This shrimp reaches about 3-4 cm. Its rostrum is very elongated, clearly extending beyond the eyes. Coloration varies from brown-red to bright red, with lighter bands on the abdomen. Antennae are long and slender. It is very active, often swimming in the water column. Its behavior is peaceful, but it can be slightly more territorial than other shrimp. It feeds on algae, detritus, and microorganisms. Reproduction is moderately difficult, requiring stable water and rich feeding.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature: 22-28 °C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. A minimum tank size of 30 liters is recommended. Omnivorous, accepts shrimp foods, vegetables, and algae. Avoid large or aggressive fish. Moderate current is appreciated. Substrate can be dark or light. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are important. Good filtration without strong flow. Reproduction requires stable parameters and slightly acidic water.

##### [Red bee shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-mariae)
**Caridina mariae** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Small, highly colored freshwater shrimp prized in the hobby for its red and white patterns. Requires stable parameters and soft acidic water.
Caridina mariae reaches about 2.5 cm. Its coloration varies from bright red to cream white with transverse bands. Antennae are short. It is a benthic species feeding on biofilm and microalgae. It lives in groups in calm, vegetated areas. Reproduction is oviparous, eggs are carried for 3-4 weeks. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Very popular in planted aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-6
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Aquarium of at least 20 liters, well planted with soft acidic water. Parameters: temperature 20-26 °C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 3-6, KH 0-2. Nitrates < 10 mg/L, phosphates < 0.2 mg/L. Diet: specific pellets, blanched vegetables, biofilm. Very sensitive to nitrates and heavy metals. Keep in groups of 5 or more. Compatible with other acidic freshwater shrimp. Avoid fish. Frequent small water changes.

##### [Amano shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-multidentata)
**Caridina multidentata** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Freshwater shrimp renowned for its efficiency in eating algae, especially filamentous types.
Caridina multidentata is a medium-sized shrimp (3-5 cm), gray-brown with dark spots and lines. It is very active and peaceful. It is one of the best algae eaters, also consuming detritus. It needs a group to feel secure. Its reproduction requires brackish water, making it difficult in freshwater aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Easy to keep: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10. A planted tank with hiding places and good flow is ideal. Feed with algae, vegetables, and supplements. It can coexist with peaceful fish. Breeding in freshwater is nearly impossible; larvae need brackish water. Beware of jumping, cover the tank.

##### [Parepare Shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-pareparensis)
**Caridina pareparensis** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Parepare Shrimp is an uncommon species, brown-green with patterns. It is adaptable but prefers slightly hard water.
This shrimp reaches 2-3 cm. Its coloration is brown-green with lighter spots and sometimes a clear dorsal line. The rostrum is medium length. Legs are slender. It lives in rivers of Sulawesi. Its behavior is peaceful and shy, often hiding among plants. It feeds on algae, detritus, and microorganisms. Reproduction is moderate; females carry 20-40 eggs. Juveniles are robust.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28 °C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. Minimum tank size 30 liters. Omnivorous, accepts shrimp foods, vegetables, and algae. Compatible with peaceful fish. A planted tank with hiding places is ideal. Gentle to moderate filtration. Regular water changes (20% weekly). Reproduction is possible without special intervention if parameters are stable.

##### [Serpent shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-serpentina)
**Caridina serpentina** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Small freshwater shrimp with an elongated, serpentine pattern, ideal for planted aquariums.
Caridina serpentina is a freshwater shrimp native to Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is distinguished by its slender, elongated body often adorned with snake-like patterns. It grows to about 2-3 cm and is highly valued in aquariums for its algae and debris cleaning abilities. It prefers clear, well-oxygenated water with slightly acidic to neutral pH and moderate temperature. It is a peaceful species that lives in groups.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain stable water with temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. Sensitive to nitrates (max 20 ppm) and phosphates (max 0.5 ppm). Provide hiding places (moss, driftwood) and a varied diet (algae, blanched vegetables, shrimp food).

##### [Malaysian shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-serrata)
**Caridina serrata** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Small peaceful freshwater shrimp, easy to keep, ideal for nano tanks.
Caridina serrata is a small shrimp up to 3 cm. It has a translucent body with dot and line patterns. It is very active and moves in groups. It feeds on algae and detritus. It is easy to breed in aquariums. It prefers soft and acidic water. It is a hardy species but sensitive to sudden changes.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 2-6, KH 1-4. Moderate lighting. Omnivorous diet: algae, vegetables, shrimp food. Minimum tank 20L. Group of 10+ recommended. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid predatory fish. Sensitive to copper and high nitrates.

##### [Sulawesi Shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-simoni)
**Caridina simoni** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Sulawesi Shrimp is an endemic species with variable colors, often orange or red. It requires hard, alkaline water.
This shrimp reaches 2-3 cm. Its coloration can be orange, red, or brown, sometimes with spots or bands. The body is slightly translucent. Antennae are long. It lives in mineral-rich waters of Sulawesi lakes. Its behavior is peaceful and active, constantly grazing surfaces. It feeds on biofilm, algae, and microorganisms. Reproduction is moderately difficult; females carry 15-30 eggs. Juveniles grow slowly.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 6-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 26-30 °C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 6-10, KH 3-6. Minimum tank size 30 liters. Diet: biofilm, powders, blanched vegetables. Very stable water, moderate water changes (15% weekly). Gentle filtration, low flow. Neutral substrate or sand. Compatible with other Sulawesi shrimp, but avoid fish. Reproduction is possible if parameters are stable. Water that is too soft causes molting problems.

##### [Spotted shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-spinata)
**Caridina spinata** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Small freshwater shrimp endemic to Lake Poso, recognizable by its dark spots on a light background. Threatened by habitat degradation.
Caridina spinata reaches up to 2.5 cm. Its translucent body is covered with irregular black or brown spots. The antennae are long and thin. It is a benthic species that feeds on biofilm and microorganisms. It lives in groups in rocky and vegetated areas of the lake. Reproduction is oviparous, with eggs carried under the female's abdomen. Its very restricted range makes it vulnerable to introduced species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Keep in an aquarium of at least 20 liters, well planted with hiding places. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 4-8, KH 1-4) with a pH of 6.5-7.5. Ideal temperature is 24-28 °C. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L, phosphates 0.5 mg/L. Diet: shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, biofilm. Peaceful species, compatible with other small shrimp and non-predatory fish. Avoid large or aggressive fish. Regular water changes and gentle filtration.

##### [Sponge shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-spongicola)
**Caridina spongicola** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Small symbiotic shrimp living in freshwater sponges, highly sought after for its rarity.
Caridina spongicola is a freshwater shrimp endemic to the lakes of Sulawesi. It lives symbiotically with freshwater sponges, hiding in their cavities. It grows to about 1-2 cm and has a translucent coloration with red or brown spots. It is a delicate species requiring very clean and stable water. In aquariums, it is challenging to keep but fascinating to observe.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-6
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Very stable water: temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 3-6, KH 1-3. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.2 ppm. Requires presence of freshwater sponges (Spongilla) or substitutes. Diet: micro-organisms, fine shrimp food. Very sensitive to changes.

##### [Typus shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-typus)
**Caridina typus** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Very widespread freshwater shrimp in the Indo-Pacific, translucent brownish color. Easy to keep and adaptable.
Caridina typus reaches about 3 cm. Its body is light brown to grayish with fine longitudinal lines. The legs are long and thin, adapted for walking on the substrate. It is an omnivorous species feeding on detritus, algae and small invertebrates. It lives in groups in calm areas of rivers. Reproduction is oviparous, females carry eggs for 3-4 weeks. It tolerates a wide range of parameters, making it an ideal species for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 20 liters with gentle filtration. Parameters: temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, vegetables, biofilm. Peaceful species, compatible with other shrimp and small fish. Avoid carnivorous fish. Enjoys plants and hiding places. Weekly water changes of 10-20%.

##### [Woltereck's shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-woltereckae)
**Caridina woltereckae** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Woltereck's shrimp is a small freshwater shrimp endemic to Sulawesi, prized for its vibrant colors and peaceful behavior.
Caridina woltereckae reaches about 2-3 cm. Its body is translucent with red and white dot patterns. Males are smaller and less colorful than females. It has long antennae and slender legs. It is a gregarious species living in groups. It feeds on biofilm and microorganisms. Its reproduction is complex, requiring stable water parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
This shrimp requires soft, acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0-7.0), temperature 24-28°C. GH 4-8, KH 1-4. A minimum tank size of 20 liters is recommended for a small group. It is sensitive to nitrates (max 20 ppm) and phosphates (max 0.5 ppm). Gentle filtration and well-oxygenated water are essential. Diet should be varied: shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, and mineral supplements. It cohabits well with other peaceful small shrimp and non-predatory fish. Avoid fish that may eat them. Breeding is possible in captivity under optimal conditions.

##### [Red cherry shrimp](/encyclopedia/neocaridina-davidi)
**Neocaridina davidi** — Atyidae · invertebrate
A small freshwater shrimp very popular in aquariums, easy to breed and available in multiple color morphs.
Neocaridina davidi is a shrimp of the Atyidae family, measuring 2-3 cm. The wild form is brown/gray, but selective breeding has produced red (Red Cherry), yellow, blue, etc. varieties. It is peaceful and lives in groups. It feeds on algae, detritus, and leftover food. It breeds easily in freshwater, with females carrying eggs under the abdomen. It is an excellent cleaner for planted tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Easy to keep: temperature 18-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. A well-planted tank with hiding places (moss, leaves) is ideal. Avoid predatory fish. Feed with shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, and mineral supplements. Breeding is easy if parameters are stable. Beware of copper-containing medications.

##### [Sakura shrimp](/encyclopedia/neocaridina-heteropoda)
**Neocaridina heteropoda** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Very popular small freshwater shrimp, easy to breed. Its bright red color makes it a decorative asset.
Sakura shrimp is a selectively bred variety of Neocaridina davidi (formerly heteropoda). It measures 2-3 cm and has an intense red color. It is peaceful and breeds easily in aquariums. It feeds on algae and debris. It prefers well-oxygenated water and moderate temperature.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain stable water with soft parameters. Avoid copper. Provide hiding places (moss, plants). Slow acclimation needed. Do not overstock.

##### [Blue Velvet Shrimp](/encyclopedia/neocaridina-palmata)
**Neocaridina palmata** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Blue Velvet Shrimp is a small freshwater shrimp highly valued in the aquarium hobby for its intense blue coloration. It is easy to keep and breeds readily.
This shrimp reaches 2.5 to 3 cm in adulthood. Its body is translucent with a uniform bright blue hue, sometimes dotted with lighter spots. The antennae are long and slender. It has small claws on its front legs for feeding. Its behavior is peaceful and active, spending time grazing on algae and biofilms. Reproduction is straightforward: females carry eggs under the abdomen for about 3 to 4 weeks. Juveniles are miniature copies of adults.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep temperature between 18-28 °C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. A minimum tank size of 20 liters is recommended for a small group. They are omnivorous: accept shrimp foods, blanched vegetables, and algae wafers. Avoid predatory fish; small peaceful fish like micro-rasboras are suitable. A dark substrate enhances their color. Gentle filtration and well-oxygenated water are essential. Regular water changes (10-20% weekly) maintain good quality.

##### [Blue dream shrimp](/encyclopedia/neocaridina-zhangjiajiensis)
**Neocaridina zhangjiajiensis** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Freshwater shrimp with bright blue color, very popular for its intense hue and ease of breeding.
Neocaridina zhangjiajiensis is a 2-3 cm shrimp, whose Blue Dream variety has a uniform deep blue color. It is peaceful and lives in groups. It feeds on algae, detritus, and shrimp food. Its breeding is easy in freshwater, similar to Neocaridina davidi. It is an excellent option for planted tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to N. davidi: temperature 18-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. A planted tank with moss and hiding places. Feed with pellets and vegetables. Breeding is easy. Beware of inbreeding to maintain color. Avoid predatory fish.

##### [Florida blue crayfish](/encyclopedia/procambarus-alleni)
**Procambarus alleni** — Cambaridae · invertebrate
A very colorful freshwater crayfish, famous for its electric blue hue, but can also be brown or red.
Procambarus alleni is a medium-sized crayfish (10-15 cm) from Florida. The blue variety is the most popular in the hobby, but the wild form is usually brown. It is a hardy and active species, but can be aggressive towards tankmates and bottom-dwelling fish. It digs burrows and requires a soft substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 80 liters with a sandy substrate for digging. Provide hiding spots (pipes, rocks). Water must be well-filtered and oxygenated. Avoid cohabitation with slow or bottom-dwelling fish. Feed with crustacean pellets, vegetables, worms, and meaty foods.

##### [Red Swamp Crayfish](/encyclopedia/procambarus-clarkii)
**Procambarus clarkii** — Cambaridae · invertebrate
Very hardy freshwater crayfish, bright red in color. Invasive species but popular in aquariums.
Procambarus clarkii can reach 15 cm. Its carapace is red with dark shades. It has large claws. It is territorial and aggressive. It digs burrows and may uproot plants. Omnivorous, it eats a variety of foods. Reproduction is oviparous, eggs carried under the abdomen. It can live 2 to 5 years. It adapts to a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. A minimum 80-liter tank is required. Diet: pellets, vegetables, proteins. Avoid bottom-dwelling fish or small fish. A lid is essential as it can escape. Many hiding places (pipes, rocks). Strong filtration. Weekly water changes. Keep nitrates < 20 mg/L.

##### [Marbled Crayfish](/encyclopedia/procambarus-fallax)
**Procambarus fallax** — Cambaridae · invertebrate
Freshwater crayfish with a marbled brown and beige carapace. Reproduces by parthenogenesis.
Procambarus fallax reaches up to 12 cm. Its coloration is variable, often marbled brown, beige and green. Its claws are slender. It is aggressive and territorial. It digs and may damage plants. Omnivorous, it accepts a wide variety of foods. Its peculiarity is parthenogenetic reproduction: females produce clones without males. It lives 2 to 4 years. It is very hardy.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. A minimum 60-liter tank. Diet: pellets, vegetables, worms. Avoid very small fish. Lid mandatory. Many hiding places. Efficient filtration. Regular water changes. Nitrates < 20 mg/L. Beware of overpopulation due to parthenogenesis.

##### [Zebra nerite snail](/encyclopedia/neritina-natalensis)
**Neritina natalensis** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Very decorative freshwater snail with black and yellow stripes, excellent algae cleaner.
Neritina natalensis is a medium-sized snail (2-3 cm) with a globular shell adorned with black and yellow bands. It is very active and spends its time grazing algae on glass, rocks, and plants. It does not reproduce in freshwater (larvae need brackish water). It is peaceful and compatible with most fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Easy to keep: temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 5-15. A mature tank with algae is ideal. Feed with algae, blanched vegetables, and calcium supplements. It may starve if the tank is too clean. Avoid snail-eating fish. Do not expose to copper-containing medications.

##### [Olive nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-pulligera)
**Neritina pulligera** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail with a solid olive shell, effective at cleaning algae and deposits.
Neritina pulligera is a 2-3 cm snail with a smooth shell, olive to dark brown, sometimes with spiral lines. It is very active and grazes algae on all surfaces. Like other nerites, it does not reproduce in freshwater. It is hardy and easy to keep, but may escape if the tank is not covered.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to N. natalensis: temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 5-15. A tank with natural algae is preferable. Feed with vegetables and calcium supplements. Beware of fish that attack tentacles. It can live in groups without issues.

##### [Red Nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-reclivata)
**Neritina reclivata** — Neritidae · invertebrate
The Red Nerite is a colorful freshwater snail, very effective for algae control in aquariums.
Neritina reclivata has a rounded shell of 1-2 cm, often bright red to orange with dark bands. The body is light. It is active and moves slowly. It feeds on algae and biofilm. Like other nerites, it does not reproduce in freshwater. It is very hardy and easy to keep. It can be kept with peaceful fish and shrimp. Its bright color makes it a decorative element.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8.5, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 7.0-8.5, temperature 22-28°C, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Nitrates max 30 ppm, phosphates max 1 ppm. Diet: algae, wafers, vegetables. Compatible with most fish. Avoid snail predators. No reproduction in freshwater. Can be kept alone or in groups.

##### [Horned Nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-semiconica)
**Neritina semiconica** — Neritidae · invertebrate
The Horned Nerite is a freshwater snail recognizable by its small horns on the shell, excellent algae cleaner.
Neritina semiconica has a shell of 1-2 cm with horn-like protrusions on the back. Color varies from brown to black with light spots. The body is gray. It is active and moves on surfaces. It feeds on algae and biofilm. It does not reproduce in freshwater. It is a hardy and easy snail. It is peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful species.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 22-28°C, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Tolerates a wide range. Nitrates max 30 ppm, phosphates max 1 ppm. Diet: algae, wafers, vegetables. Compatible with most fish. Avoid predators. No reproduction in freshwater. Can be kept alone or in groups.

##### [Turret nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-turrita)
**Neritina turrita** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail with an elongated turret-shaped shell, effective algae eater.
Neritina turrita is a freshwater snail from West Africa. Its shell is conical and elongated, dark brown with lighter bands. It grows to about 1.5-2.5 cm. It is an excellent algae grazer, especially on glass and decorations. It is hardy and easy to keep. Like other nerites, its eggs only develop in brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 2.5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Freshwater: temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 6-12, KH 4-8. Nitrates <30 ppm. Diet: algae, supplement with blanched vegetables. Avoid copper. Shell is robust but can break if dropped.

##### [Virgin Nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-virginea)
**Neritina virginea** — Neritidae · invertebrate
The Virgin Nerite is a small freshwater snail very popular in aquariums for its algae-cleaning ability.
Neritina virginea has a globular shell of 1-2 cm, variable color (black, brown, green) with dot or stripe patterns. The body is dark gray. It is an active snail that moves on hard surfaces. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm. It does not reproduce in freshwater, as its larvae require brackish water. It is an excellent cleaner for planted tanks. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 22-28°C, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. A minimum tank size of 20 liters is suitable. Sensitive to nitrates (max 30 ppm) and phosphates (max 1 ppm). Good oxygenation is recommended. Diet should include natural algae, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables. It can coexist with peaceful fish and other snails. Avoid snail-eating fish (botias, etc.). It does not require a group, but multiple individuals are beneficial. Reproduction does not occur in freshwater.

##### [Ramshorn snail](/encyclopedia/planorbarius-corneus)
**Planorbarius corneus** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
A small freshwater snail with a flat spiral shell, very common in the aquarium hobby. It is valued as a cleaner and for its ease of breeding.
The ramshorn snail has a reddish-brown discoid shell coiled in a single plane, reaching up to 3 cm in diameter. Its body is dark brown with fine, triangular tentacles. It breathes using a lung sac, allowing it to survive in oxygen-poor waters. It is a hermaphroditic mollusk capable of self-fertilization. It moves slowly across surfaces, scraping algae and detritus. In an aquarium, it can multiply quickly if food is abundant. Its shell is fragile and may break if handled roughly.
Parameters: Temperature 18-25°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
The ramshorn snail is very easy to keep in a freshwater aquarium. A temperature between 18 and 25 °C and a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (7.0–8.0) are suitable. It tolerates a wide range of hardness. No special lighting is required. It feeds on algae, leftover food, and decaying plant matter. Avoid copper-based medications, which are toxic to invertebrates. It can be kept alone or in groups, and cohabits peacefully with most fish. Be careful not to overfeed to avoid a population explosion.

##### [White Ramshorn Snail](/encyclopedia/planorbis-albus)
**Planorbis albus** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
The White Ramshorn Snail is an albino variety of the Ramshorn snail, characterized by its white or translucent shell. It is equally easy to keep and useful for algae control.
The White Ramshorn Snail has a flat spiral shell, white to cream in color, sometimes slightly translucent. Its adult size is about 2 cm. Like other Ramshorns, it is hermaphroditic and can reproduce alone. It moves slowly and feeds mainly on algae and detritus. It is very hardy and adapts to a wide variety of conditions. Its light color makes it easy to spot on dark plants.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 2cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Same conditions as the Red Ramshorn: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. Minimum tank 10 liters. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, pellets. Peaceful, compatible with most species. Avoid predators. Rapid reproduction if food is abundant. No specific substrate required.

##### [Keeled Ramshorn Snail](/encyclopedia/planorbis-carinatus)
**Planorbis carinatus** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
The Keeled Ramshorn Snail is distinguished by a keel (ridge) on the edge of its shell. It is slightly larger than other Ramshorns and very hardy.
The shell of the Keeled Ramshorn Snail measures 3-4 cm in diameter and has a prominent keel on the outer edge. Its color ranges from light brown to dark brown. It is hermaphroditic and reproduces quickly. It feeds on algae, decaying plants, and leftover food. Active at night, it can be seen crawling on glass and plants. It is very tolerant of parameter variations.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 15L, Size 3.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 18-26°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. Minimum tank 15 liters. Diet: algae, vegetables, pellets. Peaceful, compatible with most fish. Avoid predators. Rapid reproduction if excess food. Substrate not required. Can be kept outdoors in a pond.

##### [Great ramshorn snail](/encyclopedia/planorbis-corneus)
**Planorbis corneus** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
The great ramshorn snail is a large freshwater snail with a spiral shell, often used in aquariums to clean debris.
Planorbis corneus has a discoid shell of 2-3 cm diameter, brown-red to black. The body is dark brown. It moves slowly on surfaces and in vegetation. It feeds on detritus, algae, and dead plants. It is hermaphroditic and reproduces easily in freshwater, laying gelatinous egg masses. It can become invasive if food is abundant. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 18-25°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 18-25°C, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Tolerates a wide range but prefers hard water. Nitrates max 40 ppm, phosphates max 2 ppm. Diet: detritus, algae, wafers, vegetables. Can be kept in groups. Beware of overpopulation. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid snail-eating fish. Can be used in outdoor ponds. Easy reproduction, control food.

##### [Common ramshorn](/encyclopedia/planorbis-planorbis)
**Planorbis planorbis** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail with a flat spiral shell, common in coldwater or temperate aquariums.
Planorbis planorbis is a freshwater snail of the family Planorbidae. Its shell is discoid, coiled in a plane, brown-red to dark brown. It grows to about 1-2 cm in diameter. It feeds on algae, plant debris, and leftover food. It is very hardy and can live in low-oxygen waters thanks to its hemoglobin. It is often used as a cleaner in coldwater aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 10-25°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 5L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Freshwater: temperature 10-25°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. Nitrates <40 ppm. Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, fish tablets. Avoid overpopulation as they reproduce quickly.

##### [Red Ramshorn Snail](/encyclopedia/planorbis-rubrum)
**Planorbis rubrum** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
The Red Ramshorn Snail is a small freshwater snail very popular in aquariums, recognizable by its bright red spiral shell. It is easy to keep and helps maintain aquarium balance by consuming algae.
The Red Ramshorn Snail has a flat spiral shell, typical of Planorbidae, with a diameter of 2-3 cm. Its bright red color is due to a genetic mutation. It moves slowly on surfaces and plants. It is a hermaphrodite capable of self-fertilization, which can lead to rapid proliferation. It is mainly active at night. It feeds on algae, detritus, and leftover food. Its presence is beneficial for the aquarium ecosystem.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
The Red Ramshorn Snail is very easy to keep. It accepts a wide range of parameters: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. A tank of at least 10 liters is sufficient. It feeds on algae, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and fish pellets. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish and shrimp. Avoid fish that may eat it (loaches, cichlids). It can multiply quickly if food is abundant. Population control may be necessary. It does not require a specific substrate.

##### [Rabbit snail](/encyclopedia/tylomelania-geminata)
**Tylomelania geminata** — Pachychilidae · invertebrate
A freshwater snail with an elongated, pointed shell, native to Sulawesi. It is valued for its size and active behavior.
The rabbit snail has a conical, dark brown to black shell with visible growth lines. It can reach 8 cm in length. Its body is dark gray with long, thin tentacles. Unlike many snails, it is viviparous: it gives birth to fully formed young. It moves by burrowing into the substrate in search of food. It is a hardy species but sensitive to high nitrates. In the aquarium, it often remains visible and explores the decor.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep the rabbit snail in an aquarium of at least 40 L with hard, alkaline water (pH 7.5–8.5, GH 8–15). The ideal temperature is 24–28 °C. A sandy or fine substrate is recommended to allow burrowing. It feeds on algae, blanched vegetables, and bottom-feeder pellets. Avoid high nitrate levels (max 10 mg/L). It cohabits peacefully with fish and non-aggressive invertebrates. Reproduction is slow, with births every 1–2 months.

##### [Golden Rabbit Snail](/encyclopedia/tylomelania-gemmifera)
**Tylomelania gemmifera** — Pachychilidae · invertebrate
The Golden Rabbit Snail is a freshwater snail from Sulawesi, prized for its elongated golden-yellow shell. It is viviparous and requires hard, alkaline water.
The shell of Tylomelania gemmifera is elongated, conical, golden-yellow to light brown, with spiral striae. It can reach 6-8 cm in length. The operculum is horny and allows closing the opening. It is a viviparous species: young are born fully formed. It moves slowly on the substrate and rocks. It feeds on algae, biofilm, and fish food. It is sensitive to water quality and prefers well-oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Parameters: temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 5-10. Minimum tank 40 liters, preferably with sandy substrate and rocks. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, fish pellets, algae wafers. Peaceful species, compatible with calm fish (rasboras, small cichlids). Avoid aggressive or digging fish. Reproduction is slow (one to two young per month). Good water maintenance is crucial.

##### [Malayan rabbit snail](/encyclopedia/tylomelania-malayensis)
**Tylomelania malayensis** — Pachychilidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail with an elongated, pointed shell, prized for its beauty and peaceful demeanor.
The Malayan rabbit snail is a freshwater snail from Sulawesi. Its conical shell can reach 8 cm and displays varied patterns from brown to black with light bands. It is a detritivore that spends its time sifting through the substrate for food. This peaceful species does not disturb other aquarium inhabitants.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain clean water with good filtration. A sandy substrate is ideal for burrowing. Avoid strong currents. Provide hiding spots and plants. Feed with bottom-feeder tablets, blanched vegetables, and calcium-rich foods.

##### [Black Sulawesi Snail](/encyclopedia/tylomelania-patriarchalis)
**Tylomelania patriarchalis** — Pachychilidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail endemic to Sulawesi, recognizable by its elongated black shell. Peaceful and easy to keep.
Tylomelania patriarchalis has a conical black shell reaching up to 8 cm. Its body is dark with fine tentacles. It moves slowly on the substrate searching for food. It is a detritivore that helps clean the aquarium. Active both day and night. Reproduction is oviparous, eggs are laid on hard surfaces. It cohabits well with peaceful fish.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature between 26 and 30°C, pH 7.5 to 8.5. Hard, alkaline water is recommended. A tank of at least 40 liters is sufficient. Diet consists of algae, blanched vegetables, and bottom feeder pellets. Avoid aggressive fish or large cichlids. A fine substrate is preferable to prevent injuries. Regular water changes are important. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L.

##### [Yellow-spotted Sulawesi Snail](/encyclopedia/tylomelania-perfecta)
**Tylomelania perfecta** — Pachychilidae · invertebrate
Small freshwater snail with a shell adorned with yellow spots. Ideal for planted aquariums.
Tylomelania perfecta reaches about 5 cm. Its shell is conical, black with characteristic yellow spots. Its body is dark gray. It feeds on algae and plant debris. It is a peaceful species that does not disturb plants. It reproduces by laying eggs on rocks. It prefers hard, alkaline water. Lifespan is 2 to 3 years.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 5-10. A minimum 30-liter tank is suitable. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, tablets. Avoid fish that nip tentacles. Fine sand substrate is recommended. Maintain good filtration. Nitrates should stay below 20 mg/L. Weekly 20% water changes.

##### [Orange Rabbit Snail](/encyclopedia/tylomelania-towutica)
**Tylomelania towutica** — Pachychilidae · invertebrate
The Orange Rabbit Snail is a freshwater snail from Sulawesi, recognizable by its bright orange shell. Like other Tylomelania, it is viviparous and requires hard water.
The shell of Tylomelania towutica is elongated, conical, orange to reddish, with spiral striae. It measures 5-7 cm in length. The operculum is horny. It is a viviparous species giving birth to fully formed young. It feeds on algae, biofilm, and leftover food. It is more active at night. It needs stable, hard, alkaline water. Its bright color makes it a choice subject for Sulawesi biotope aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Parameters identical to T. gemmifera: temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 5-10. Minimum tank 40 liters with sandy substrate. Diet: algae, vegetables, pellets. Peaceful, compatible with calm fish. Avoid predators. Slow reproduction. Clean, well-oxygenated water is essential. Add limestone rocks to stabilize pH.

##### [Zebra Sulawesi Snail](/encyclopedia/tylomelania-zeamais)
**Tylomelania zeamais** — Pachychilidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail with a black and yellow striped shell. Very decorative and easy to breed.
Tylomelania zeamais reaches 6 cm. Its conical shell has vertical black and yellow bands. Its body is dark. It is active and explores the substrate. It feeds on algae and detritus. It is a robust species that adapts well. Reproduction is oviparous. It cohabits with peaceful fish. Lifespan is about 2 to 3 years.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, hard water. Minimum 30-liter tank. Diet: algae, vegetables, pellets. Avoid aggressive fish. Fine sand substrate. Moderate filtration. Nitrates < 20 mg/L. Regular water changes. Beware of copper leaks.

### Marine
Source : /encyclopedia/eau-de-mer

#### Fish
Source : /encyclopedia/poissons

##### [Achilles tang](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-achilles)
**Acanthurus achilles** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Achilles tang is a surgeonfish with a black body, a bright orange patch at the base of the caudal fin, and a highly developed caudal spine.
This fish reaches 25 cm in length. Its body is oval and compressed, velvety black. A bright orange teardrop-shaped patch adorns the base of the caudal fin, and an orange band edged in white appears on the dorsal fin. The caudal spine is particularly long and sharp. It is a herbivore that feeds on algae. It is very active and requires strong water flow. It is territorial and aggressive towards other surgeonfish. In an aquarium, it requires a large volume and highly oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 25cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 500 liters is essential. Temperature 24-28 °C, pH 8.1-8.4. The diet must be rich in algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetables. Strong water flow is necessary to mimic its natural habitat. It is sensitive to ich and stress. Avoid keeping it with other surgeonfish. It can coexist with robust, active fish. Captive breeding is unknown.

##### [Doctorfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-chirurgus)
**Acanthurus chirurgus** — Acanthuridae · fish
Common Atlantic surgeonfish, recognizable by its dark vertical stripes and sharp caudal spine.
The doctorfish is a medium-sized marine fish (up to 30 cm) with an oval, laterally compressed body. Its coloration is gray-brown with 10 to 12 dark vertical bars. It has a sharp spine on each side of the caudal peduncle. It is an herbivore that grazes on algae and can be kept in an aquarium with other peaceful fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 300 liters with rockwork and algae to graze. Stable water, salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Beware of the caudal spine when handling. Feed with dried algae, spirulina-based pellets, and fresh vegetables. Can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough.

##### [Japanese Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-japonicus)
**Acanthurus japonicus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Japanese Surgeonfish is a colorful reef fish with a blue and yellow pattern. It is popular in marine aquariums for its beauty and active behavior.
This fish has an oval, laterally compressed body, dark blue to violet with a broad yellow stripe on the back and a bright yellow caudal fin. A sharp white spine is present on the caudal peduncle, typical of surgeonfish. Juveniles are duller. It grows up to 21 cm. It is diurnal and grazes on algae on rocks. It can become territorial towards conspecifics. In an aquarium, it requires good water flow and high water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 21cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 300 liters is recommended for one specimen. It is herbivorous: feed with dried algae (nori), spirulina-based flakes, and blanched vegetables. Avoid excess animal protein. It can coexist with other peaceful fish but may be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. Provide hiding places and open swimming space. A protein skimmer is essential. Keep parameters stable with nitrates <20 mg/L and phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate lighting and moderate to strong water flow are appreciated.

##### [Powder blue tang](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-leucosternon)
**Acanthurus leucosternon** — Acanthuridae · fish
A surgeonfish with a bright blue body, white head, and yellow fins. Very beautiful but demanding in care.
The powder blue tang has an electric blue oval body, a white head with a black band through the eye, and yellow dorsal and anal fins. It reaches up to 25 cm. It is very active and requires a large swimming space. It is sensitive to skin diseases like ich. In the aquarium, it can be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. Its caudal spine is very sharp.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 400L, Size 25cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 400 L, very stable seawater (salinity 1.023–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Herbivorous, feed with algae and enriched foods. Very sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Quarantine is highly recommended. Avoid aggressive tankmates. A powerful protein skimmer is essential.

##### [Lined Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-lineatus)
**Acanthurus lineatus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Lined Surgeonfish has a distinctive pattern of blue and yellow lines. It is active and requires a large aquarium.
This surgeonfish has an elongated body with alternating horizontal blue and yellow lines, a yellow crescent-shaped caudal fin. It can reach 38 cm. The caudal spine is very sharp. It lives in groups in the wild but becomes aggressive in captivity. It grazes on filamentous algae. Its coloration intensifies with age. It is a hardy fish but prone to skin diseases if water quality is poor.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 38cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 500-liter tank is required for an adult. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Herbivorous diet: algae, vegetables, spirulina. Avoid excess protein. It is aggressive towards other surgeonfish and similarly shaped fish. Introduce it last into the aquarium. A powerful skimmer and efficient filtration are essential. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate to strong current. It needs hiding places but also swimming space.

##### [Whitecheek surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-nigricans)
**Acanthurus nigricans** — Acanthuridae · fish
Black surgeonfish with a distinctive white cheek patch. Active and requires a large aquarium.
Acanthurus nigricans is a surgeonfish with an oval, laterally compressed body, dark brown to black, with a large white patch on the cheek and a white band at the base of the tail. It has a sharp caudal spine on each side of the caudal peduncle. In the aquarium, it is active and needs plenty of swimming space. It is a herbivore that grazes on algae on rocks and decor. It can become territorial with other surgeonfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 25cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 500 liters with good filtration and strong water movement. Live rock for grazing. Diet rich in algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetable supplements. Caution with caudal spines during handling.

##### [Orange-shoulder Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-olivaceus)
**Acanthurus olivaceus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Orange-shoulder Surgeonfish is distinguished by a bright orange patch behind the eye. It is a peaceful fish for large aquariums.
This fish has an oval body, gray-blue with a large orange crescent-shaped patch on the upper flank just behind the gill cover. The caudal fin is bluish. It grows up to 35 cm. Juveniles are yellow with blue spots. It is less aggressive than other surgeonfish. It feeds on benthic algae. In the aquarium, it is active and requires good water flow. It can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 400L, Size 35cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 400-liter tank. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, vegetables. Supplement with vitamin-enriched foods. It is compatible with most reef fish, but avoid other surgeonfish if space is limited. A protein skimmer is recommended. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate current. It appreciates live rock for grazing. Be careful of jumping: cover the tank.

##### [Chocolate Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-pyroferus)
**Acanthurus pyroferus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Chocolate Surgeonfish is named for its dark brown color. It is less common in aquariums but highly valued for its unique hue.
This fish has an oval body, chocolate brown to blackish, with a white-edged caudal fin. It can reach 25 cm. Juveniles mimic dwarf angelfish (Centropyge) for protection. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial. It grazes on algae on hard substrates. In the aquarium, it is active and requires good water flow. Its color may fade if water quality is poor.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 300-liter tank. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina. It may occasionally accept meaty foods but prefer vegetables. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid conspecifics. A protein skimmer is necessary. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate to strong current. It needs live rock for grazing. Be aware of skin diseases under stress.

##### [Sohal tang](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-sohal)
**Acanthurus sohal** — Acanthuridae · fish
A large surgeonfish with a gray-blue body and dark vertical bands. Very aggressive, for experienced aquarists only.
The sohal tang can reach 40 cm. Its body is gray-blue with dark vertical bands and an orange spot at the base of the pectoral fin. Its caudal fin is crescent-shaped. It has a very developed caudal spine. It is one of the most aggressive surgeonfish, dominating the entire aquarium. It needs a very large volume and powerful filtration. In the wild, it lives in harems with a dominant male.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 500L, Size 40cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 500 L, ideally 800 L or more. Stable seawater (salinity 1.023–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Very aggressive, do not keep with other surgeonfish or shy fish. A powerful protein skimmer is essential. Water changes must be frequent. Keep nitrates and phosphates very low.

##### [Convict Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-triostegus)
**Acanthurus triostegus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Convict Surgeonfish is easily recognized by its six vertical black bars. It is a hardy and active fish.
This fish has an oval silvery-white body with six vertical black bars, hence the name convict. The caudal fin is slightly forked. It grows up to 27 cm. It lives in large schools in the wild. In the aquarium, it is gregarious and less aggressive than other surgeonfish. It grazes on algae on rocks. Its coloration can vary with mood. It is an excellent fish for marine beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 300L, Size 27cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 300-liter tank, but a group needs 600 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, vegetables. It can be fed several times a day. Compatible with most fish, but avoid predators. It is less territorial, but may show aggression towards conspecifics if space is insufficient. A protein skimmer is recommended. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate current. It enjoys live rock for grazing.

##### [Clown Triggerfish](/encyclopedia/balistoides-conspicillum)
**Balistoides conspicillum** — Balistidae · fish
Striking black and white triggerfish with yellow spots, very popular but aggressive.
The clown triggerfish has a robust body, black with large white spots on the belly and a yellow saddle on the back. Its mouth is powerful with strong teeth. It is known for its territorial and aggressive behavior, especially towards other triggerfish. It can move rocks and decorations. In aquariums, it requires a large volume and strong filtration. It can reach 50 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 600L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 600 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: carnivorous, feed shrimp, fish, mussels, and frozen foods. Very aggressive, should not be kept with shy or small fish. May bite cables and pipes. Not recommended for reef tanks as it eats invertebrates. Needs hiding places and ample swimming space.

##### [Common dragonet](/encyclopedia/callionymus-lyra)
**Callionymus lyra** — Callionymidae · fish
Bottom-dwelling fish with elongated body and fan-shaped pectoral fins. Hides in sand.
The common dragonet is a shy fish that spends most of its time buried in sand. It feeds on small benthic invertebrates. Suitable for cold or temperate aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 15-20°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 200L with fine sandy substrate. Live or frozen food. Moderate temperature (15-20°C).

##### [Cherub angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-argi)
**Centropyge argi** — Pomacanthidae · fish
A small dwarf angelfish blue and yellow, very active and colorful. Ideal for modest-sized reef aquariums.
Centropyge argi is one of the smallest angelfish, reaching only 10 cm. Its body is bright blue with a yellow head and caudal fin. It originates from Western Atlantic reefs, where it lives in small groups. In aquariums, it is hardy and adapts well, but can be territorial towards other dwarf angels. It needs hiding spots and a diet rich in algae.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 100 L with live rock for grazing. Stable water, low nitrates. Diet: algae, spirulina, small crustaceans. Can be kept in pairs or groups in a larger tank.

##### [Bicolor angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-bicolor)
**Centropyge bicolor** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The bicolor angelfish is a small dwarf angelfish very colorful, with a yellow front half and a dark blue rear half. It is popular in reef aquariums but can be territorial.
This dwarf angelfish reaches about 15 cm in adulthood. Its distinctive coloration makes it easily recognizable: the head and anterior part of the body are bright yellow, while the posterior part and caudal fin are dark blue. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in blue. It has a laterally compressed body and a small mouth. It is an active fish that constantly explores rocks in search of food. It can be aggressive towards other angelfish and similarly shaped fish. In the aquarium, it adapts well but requires a varied diet.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is recommended. The aquarium should have plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding places. It is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency: offer algae (nori, spirulina), mysis, brine shrimp, and angelfish pellets. It can be kept alone or as a pair in a large tank. Avoid housing it with other Centropyge or overly passive fish. It may nip at soft corals and polyps, so monitoring is needed. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. It is sensitive to water quality, especially nitrates.

##### [Coral beauty angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-bispinosa)
**Centropyge bispinosa** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Small orange and blue dwarf angelfish with vertical stripes. Very colorful and popular.
The coral beauty angelfish grows up to 10 cm. Its body is bright orange with vertical blue stripes. The dorsal fin is edged in blue. It is an active and curious fish, but can be territorial towards other dwarf angelfish. It is generally compatible with soft corals but may nip at some hard corals. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 200 liters. Omnivorous: algae, brine shrimp, mysis, spirulina. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid other dwarf angelfish in a small tank. Can be kept alone or in pairs. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Lemonpeel angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-flavissima)
**Centropyge flavissima** — Pomacanthidae · fish
A beautiful dwarf angelfish entirely yellow with a blue ring around the eye. Highly prized in reef aquariums.
Centropyge flavissima is a dwarf angelfish with a bright yellow body, blue margins on the dorsal and anal fins, and a characteristic blue ring around the eye. It reaches about 14 cm. It is found on Indo-Pacific reefs, often in small groups. In aquariums, it is active and requires a well-established tank with live rock for grazing. It can be sensitive to water quality changes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 14cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 150 L with live rock and hiding spots. Very stable water, nitrates <10 ppm. Varied diet: algae, spirulina, mysis, brine shrimp. Avoid soft corals as it may nip.

##### [Flame angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-loricula)
**Centropyge loricula** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The flame angelfish is a small dwarf angelfish with a bright orange-red body and vertical black bars. It is one of the most popular angelfish in marine aquariums.
This fish reaches about 12 cm in adulthood. Its base color is a brilliant orange-red, crossed by four to five vertical black bars. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in electric blue. The caudal fin is translucent yellow. It has a laterally compressed body and a small mouth. It is an active and curious fish, spending its time grazing algae on rocks. It can be territorial towards other angelfish. In the aquarium, it is generally hardy but requires careful acclimation. It is considered relatively reef-safe, but may nip at some soft corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 150 liters is recommended. The aquarium should be well decorated with live rock for grazing and hiding places. It is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency: algae (nori, spirulina), mysis, brine shrimp, and angelfish-specific foods. It can be kept alone or as a pair. Avoid cohabitation with other Centropyge or similarly shaped fish. It is generally compatible with peaceful fish. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. It is sensitive to high nitrates and phosphates. Slow acclimation is recommended to reduce stress.

##### [Flame angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-loriculus)
**Centropyge loriculus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Small bright red dwarf angelfish with vertical black stripes. Very popular in reef aquariums.
The flame angelfish grows up to 12 cm. Its body is bright red with vertical black stripes on the sides. The dorsal fin is edged in blue. It is an active and curious fish, but can be territorial towards other dwarf angelfish. It is generally compatible with soft corals but may nip at some hard corals. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 200 liters. Omnivorous: algae, brine shrimp, mysis, spirulina-based foods. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid other dwarf angelfish in a small tank. Can be kept alone or in pairs. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Multicolor angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-multicolor)
**Centropyge multicolor** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The multicolor angelfish is a small dwarf angelfish with bright and varied colors, mixing blue, yellow, orange and purple. It is less common in the hobby but highly sought after.
This fish reaches about 9 cm in adulthood. Its coloration is a complex mix: the head and back are bright yellow, the belly is blue-violet, and the flanks show orange and blue hues. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in electric blue. The caudal fin is translucent yellow. It has a laterally compressed body and a small mouth. It is an active and curious fish, grazing algae on rocks. It is territorial but can coexist with other peaceful fish. In the aquarium, it is hardy but requires a varied diet. It is considered reef-safe with caution.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 9cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 150 liters is recommended. The aquarium should have plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding places. It is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency: algae (nori, spirulina), mysis, brine shrimp, and specific foods. It can be kept alone or as a pair. Avoid cohabitation with other Centropyge. It is compatible with peaceful fish. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. It is sensitive to water quality, especially nitrates. Slow acclimation is recommended.

##### [Midnight angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-nox)
**Centropyge nox** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The midnight angelfish is a small angelfish with a uniformly black body, highly prized in marine aquariums for its sober color and active behavior.
Centropyge nox has an entirely black body without distinctive markings, with slightly darker fins. Juveniles are identical to adults. It reaches a maximum size of about 10 cm. It is a shy but curious fish, spending its time exploring crevices in the decor. It can become territorial towards other small angelfish. In the aquarium, it is generally peaceful with unrelated species. Its diet is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency, grazing algae on rocks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-10, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is recommended for one specimen. The aquarium should have plenty of hiding places and live rock for grazing. It is sensitive to sudden parameter changes. Feed with spirulina-based foods, enriched brine shrimp, and mysis. Avoid keeping it with aggressive other Centropyge. It can be kept in a reef tank with caution as it may nip at some soft corals. Efficient filtration and moderate lighting are suitable.

##### [Potter's angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-potteri)
**Centropyge potteri** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Potter's angelfish is a small dwarf angelfish endemic to Hawaii, with a blue-violet body and orange highlights. It is highly prized for its beauty and relative rarity.
This fish reaches about 10 cm in adulthood. Its coloration is complex: the body is dark blue-violet with orange-edged scales, giving a reticulated appearance. The head is bright orange, and the dorsal and anal fins are edged in light blue. The caudal fin is orange. It has a laterally compressed body and a small mouth. It is an active fish that grazes algae on rocks. It is territorial but less aggressive than other Centropyge. In the aquarium, it adapts well but may be shy initially. It is considered reef-safe with caution.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 150 liters is recommended. The aquarium should have plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding places. It is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency: algae (nori, spirulina), mysis, brine shrimp, and specific foods. It can be kept alone or as a pair. Avoid cohabitation with other Centropyge. It is compatible with peaceful fish. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. It is sensitive to water quality, especially nitrates. Slow acclimation is recommended.

##### [Keyhole angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-tibicen)
**Centropyge tibicen** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The keyhole angelfish is recognized by its characteristic white spot on the back, resembling a keyhole.
Centropyge tibicen has a blue-black body with a large oval white spot on the mid-back, surrounded by blue. The fins are edged with electric blue. It grows up to 12 cm. It is an active and curious fish, often seen swimming among corals. It can be territorial towards conspecifics but tolerates other species. In the aquarium, it needs plenty of hiding places. Its diet is omnivorous, with a preference for algae. It is considered relatively hardy once acclimated.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-10, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 250 liters is recommended. Provide a rocky decor with crevices. It can be kept in a reef tank but may nip at some soft corals and polyps. Feed with dried algae, brine shrimp, mysis, and spirulina-based preparations. Avoid cohabitation with overly aggressive other Centropyge. Good filtration and moderate water flow are necessary. It is sensitive to water quality, especially nitrates.

##### [Pearlscale angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-vrolikii)
**Centropyge vrolikii** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The pearlscale angelfish is named for its pearly scales that give it a pearl-like appearance, with a blue-gray coloration and silvery reflections.
Centropyge vrolikii has a blue-gray body with white-edged scales, creating a reticulated pattern. The head is darker, the fins are blue with light edges. It reaches 12 cm. It is an active and relatively peaceful fish, but may defend its territory. It spends a lot of time grazing algae on rocks. In the aquarium, it adapts well and can be kept in a group if space is sufficient. It is sensitive to skin diseases if water quality is poor.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-10, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Minimum tank volume 250 liters. A decor with live rock and hiding places is essential. It can coexist with other similarly sized angelfish if introduced together. Feed with algae, brine shrimp, mysis, and herbivore pellets. It is generally safe for hard corals but may nibble soft corals. Powerful filtration and moderate flow are recommended. Perform regular water changes.

##### [Threadfin Butterflyfish](/encyclopedia/chaetodon-auriga)
**Chaetodon auriga** — Chaetodontidae · fish
The Threadfin Butterflyfish is an elegant fish with a long filamentous dorsal fin. It is popular in marine aquariums but requires a spacious tank.
Chaetodon auriga has a laterally compressed body and white coloration with oblique black bands. A long filamentous extension of the dorsal fin is characteristic. It has a black spot on the caudal peduncle. It is active and swims throughout the water column. In an aquarium, it may be shy at first but acclimates. It feeds on coral polyps, anemones, and small invertebrates. It is generally peaceful but may become territorial towards other butterflyfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is recommended for this butterflyfish. It prefers good water quality with stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is omnivorous and accepts a variety of frozen and dry foods, but may be difficult to feed initially. It is best kept alone or as a pair in a species-specific tank. Avoid aggressive fish. It may nip at soft corals and anemones, so not recommended for reefs. Vitamin-enriched food is beneficial. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Raccoon Butterflyfish](/encyclopedia/chaetodon-lunula)
**Chaetodon lunula** — Chaetodontidae · fish
The Raccoon Butterflyfish is recognizable by its black and white facial mask. It is a robust and popular aquarium fish.
Chaetodon lunula has a yellow-orange body with vertical black bands. A broad black band crosses the eye, resembling a raccoon mask. The dorsal fin is edged in black. It is active and curious, often swimming in groups in the wild. In an aquarium, it adapts well and accepts a wide variety of foods. It can be kept with other peaceful fish. It tends to nip at corals and invertebrates, so not recommended for reefs. Its lifespan can reach 10 years in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is necessary. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is omnivorous and accepts frozen, dry, and live foods. Variety in diet is important. It can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough. Avoid aggressive fish. It is sensitive to water quality; efficient filtration is required. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Masked Butterflyfish](/encyclopedia/chaetodon-semilarvatus)
**Chaetodon semilarvatus** — Chaetodontidae · fish
The Masked Butterflyfish is a fish endemic to the Red Sea, recognizable by its bright yellow coloration and black mask. It is highly prized by aquarists.
Chaetodon semilarvatus has a bright yellow body with a broad vertical black band on the head covering the eye. Another black band is on the caudal peduncle. The fins are yellow with black edges. It is active and swims in pairs or small groups. In an aquarium, it is relatively hardy but requires a varied diet. It can be kept with other peaceful fish. It tends to nip at corals, so not recommended for reefs. Its intense coloration makes it a very decorative fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is recommended. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is omnivorous and accepts frozen, dry, and live foods. It is important to provide a diet rich in spirulina and brine shrimp. It can be kept as a pair. Avoid aggressive fish. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Deepwater fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-bathyphilus)
**Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus** — Labridae · fish
The deepwater fairy wrasse is a rare and poorly known species living in mesophotic zones.
This fish has an elongated body with bright colors, often vivid red and orange, with translucent fins. It is adapted to deep life, with relatively large eyes. It feeds on zooplankton and small invertebrates. Its behavior is similar to other Cirrhilabrus, but it is more sensitive to parameter changes. In an aquarium, it requires careful acclimation and stable conditions. It is rarely available in the trade.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: DD
Temperature 24-26°C (cooler than surface species), pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. A minimum 300-liter tank is recommended due to its sensitivity. Varied diet: mysis, enriched brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Compatible with calm fish, avoid aggressive species. A lid is necessary. Parameters must be very stable: nitrates < 10 mg/L, phosphates < 0.03 mg/L. Low to moderate lighting is preferred. Powerful filtration and a protein skimmer are essential.

##### [Purple fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-blatteus)
**Cirrhilabrus blatteus** — Labridae · fish
The purple fairy wrasse is a wrasse with purple and blue hues, very decorative.
This fish has an elongated body with a dominant purplish-violet color, blue reflections, and fins often edged in yellow. Adult males have highly developed dorsal and anal fins. It is active and swims in open water, feeding on zooplankton. It is a diurnal species that hides in crevices at night. It is generally peaceful, but males can be territorial. In an aquarium, it adapts well and is compatible with most reef fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended. Varied diet: mysis, brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid aggressive wrasses. A lid is necessary. Parameters must be stable: nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.05 mg/L. Moderate lighting and good filtration are suitable. It may jump, so a lid is essential.

##### [Blue-sided fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-cyanopleura)
**Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura** — Labridae · fish
The blue-sided fairy wrasse is a brightly colored wrasse appreciated for its active behavior.
This fish has an elongated body with bright blue sides contrasting with an orange-red back. The fins are often edged in yellow. Dominant males develop longer dorsal and anal fins. It is very active and swims in open water, feeding on zooplankton. It is a gregarious species that can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough. It is generally peaceful, but males can be aggressive toward each other.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended. Varied diet: mysis, brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid aggressive wrasses. A lid is necessary. Parameters must be stable: nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.05 mg/L. Moderate lighting and good filtration are recommended. It may jump, so a lid is essential.

##### [Exquisite fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-exquisitus)
**Cirrhilabrus exquisitus** — Labridae · fish
The exquisite fairy wrasse is a small wrasse with shimmering colors, very popular in aquariums.
This fish has an elongated body with iridescent reflections ranging from green to blue and red. Males have highly developed dorsal and anal fins, often edged in yellow or white. It is active and swims in open water, feeding on zooplankton. It is a diurnal species that hides in rocks at night. It is generally peaceful, but males can be territorial. In an aquarium, it adapts well and can be kept in groups if space allows.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended. Varied diet: mysis, brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid aggressive wrasses. A lid is necessary. Parameters must be stable: nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.05 mg/L. Moderate lighting and good filtration are sufficient. It may jump, so a lid is essential.

##### [Lubbock's fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-lubbocki)
**Cirrhilabrus lubbocki** — Labridae · fish
Lubbock's fairy wrasse is a small, highly colorful reef fish prized by aquarists. It is peaceful and ideal for community reef tanks.
This Cirrhilabrus reaches up to 8 cm. Males display a brilliant coloration with red, orange, blue and purple hues, while females are duller. The dorsal fin is tall and pointed in males. It is a diurnal fish that swims in open water and takes refuge in crevices at night. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It feeds on zooplankton and small crustaceans. In aquariums, it is prized for its beauty and peaceful behavior. It may jump, so a lid is important.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume 200 liters. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, mysis, copepods, enriched flake food. It is very peaceful and compatible with most reef fish. Avoid aggressive tankmates. A lid is mandatory. It needs hiding places (live rock). It can be kept in pairs or harems if the tank is large enough. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.05 mg/L. Stable, high-quality water is crucial.

##### [Red-bellied fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-rubriventralis)
**Cirrhilabrus rubriventralis** — Labridae · fish
The red-bellied fairy wrasse is an elegant reef fish with a bright red belly. It is peaceful and highly sought after for reef aquariums.
This fish reaches 9 cm. Males have a blue-green body with a broad red band on the belly and elongated dorsal and anal fins. Females are duller, often orange-pink. It is diurnal and swims in groups in the wild. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It feeds on zooplankton and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it is active but non-aggressive. It needs plenty of hiding spots and open swimming space. It may jump, so a lid is necessary.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 9cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume 250 liters. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, mysis, copepods, frozen food. It is very peaceful, ideal for a community reef tank. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish. A lid is mandatory. It enjoys a well-structured aquarium with live rock and open areas. It can be kept in a harem (1 male with several females). Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.05 mg/L. Stable water is essential.

##### [Scott's fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-scottorum)
**Cirrhilabrus scottorum** — Labridae · fish
Scott's fairy wrasse is a spectacular reef fish with vivid colors, endemic to the South Pacific. It is peaceful and suitable for reef aquariums.
This Cirrhilabrus reaches 10 cm. Males have a red-orange body with blue highlights and a highly developed dorsal fin. Females are more discreet, often pale pink. It lives in small groups in current-prone areas. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It feeds on zooplankton. In aquariums, it is active and requires ample swimming space. It is sensitive to water quality. It may jump, so a lid is essential. Its coloration intensifies with a good diet.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume 250 liters. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, mysis, copepods, quality flake food. It is peaceful and compatible with most reef fish. Avoid aggressive species. A lid is mandatory. It needs live rock for hiding and open space for swimming. It can be kept in a harem. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.05 mg/L. Stable, well-oxygenated water is crucial.

##### [Temminck's fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-temminckii)
**Cirrhilabrus temminckii** — Labridae · fish
Temminck's fairy wrasse is a small, colorful wrasse highly sought after in reef aquariums.
This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body with bright colors ranging from orange-red to electric blue. Adult males display highly developed dorsal and anal fins. It is active and swims mainly in the water column, occasionally hiding in crevices. It is a diurnal species that feeds on zooplankton. Males can be territorial with each other. In an aquarium, it is generally peaceful with other species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is recommended. Feed a varied diet: mysis, brine shrimp, small crustaceans, and marine fish preparations. It is compatible with most reef fish, but avoid keeping it with aggressive wrasses. A lid is necessary as it may jump. Water parameters must be stable, with nitrates below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.05 mg/L. Efficient filtration and moderate lighting are suitable.

##### [Chevron Tang](/encyclopedia/ctenochaetus-hawaiiensis)
**Ctenochaetus hawaiiensis** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Chevron Tang is a semi-aggressive herbivorous fish, recognizable by its chevron patterns on the body. It requires a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space.
The body is oval, dark brown to black with light chevron-shaped lines. The fins are edged in blue. Juveniles are more colorful with more contrasted patterns. It has a sharp caudal spine. It is an active swimmer that constantly explores the decor. In the aquarium, it can become territorial towards other surgeonfish. It feeds mainly on benthic algae.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 400-liter aquarium is advised. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina, vegetable supplements. Be careful with compatibility: avoid multiple males or similar species in a small volume. Provide hiding places and live rock. Strong filtration and moderate to strong flow are recommended. Nitrates should remain <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L.

##### [Kole Tang](/encyclopedia/ctenochaetus-strigosus)
**Ctenochaetus strigosus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Kole Tang is a peaceful herbivorous fish, ideal for reef aquariums. It is distinguished by its fine horizontal lines on the body and yellow eyes.
The body is oval and laterally compressed, brown-green with light horizontal lines. The eyes are surrounded by a bright yellow ring. The caudal fin is crescent-shaped. It has a sharp caudal spine on each side of the tail. Juveniles have brighter coloration. In the aquarium, it is active and constantly swims in search of food. It is a gregarious fish that can live in groups in a large volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 300-liter aquarium is recommended for one specimen. It is herbivorous and should be fed algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetable-based preparations. Avoid aggressive tankmates; it gets along with peaceful fish. A setup with live rock and hiding places is appreciated. Water quality must be excellent with nitrates <20 mg/L and phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Good oxygenation and moderate flow are necessary.

##### [Tomini Tang](/encyclopedia/ctenochaetus-tominiensis)
**Ctenochaetus tominiensis** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Tomini Tang is a peaceful herbivorous fish, appreciated for its bright coloration and active behavior. It is suitable for community reef aquariums.
The body is oval, brown-yellow with blue spots on the head and back. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in blue. The tail is lyre-shaped. It has a yellow caudal spine. Juveniles have a black spot on the dorsal fin. It is a curious and sociable fish, often seen grazing on algae. It can coexist with other peaceful species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 300-liter aquarium is recommended. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina, blanched vegetables. It is generally peaceful but may show slight territoriality towards conspecifics. A setup with live rock and open swimming areas is ideal. Good filtration and moderate flow are necessary. Keep nitrates <20 mg/L and phosphates <0.1 mg/L.

##### [Fingered Dragonet](/encyclopedia/dactylopus-dactylopus)
**Dactylopus dactylopus** — Callionymidae · fish
The Fingered Dragonet is a small bottom-dwelling fish with an elongated body and finger-like pectoral fins. It is valued for its ability to feed on small invertebrates in the sand.
Dactylopus dactylopus has an elongated body and a broad head with prominent eyes. Its pectoral fins are modified into finger-like structures that allow it to move along the substrate. Coloration is variable, often brown or gray with patterns of spots and lines. It is a peaceful bottom-dweller that spends most of its time foraging for food in the sand. It can be kept in a reef aquarium but requires abundant live food. Its behavior is generally non-aggressive towards other fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
This dragonet requires an aquarium of at least 200 liters with a fine sandy substrate to allow foraging. It is essential to maintain a population of copepods and other microfauna in the tank, as it feeds exclusively on live prey. Supplemental feeding with brine shrimp or mysis may be attempted, but it is difficult to wean. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and reef invertebrates. Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish. Captive breeding is rare but possible under optimal conditions.

##### [Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish](/encyclopedia/forcipiger-flavissimus)
**Forcipiger flavissimus** — Chaetodontidae · fish
Bright yellow longnose butterflyfish, popular in marine aquariums.
This fish has a laterally compressed body, bright yellow with a black vertical band through the eye and a black spot on the dorsal fin. Its snout is elongated into a forceps-like shape, allowing it to feed on small invertebrates in crevices. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial with conspecifics. In aquariums, it requires a varied diet and excellent water quality. It can reach 22 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 22cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 300 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: omnivorous, will accept frozen foods, brine shrimp, mysis, and spirulina-based preparations. Sensitive to water quality and diseases. Compatible with other peaceful fish but not with other butterflyfish. Avoid shrimp and tubeworms as they may be eaten. Can be kept in reef tanks with caution.

##### [Lamarck's Angelfish](/encyclopedia/genicanthus-lamarck)
**Genicanthus lamarck** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Lamarck's Angelfish is a slender and peaceful angelfish, ideal for community reef aquariums. It is distinguished by its long lyre-shaped caudal fins.
Genicanthus lamarck has an elongated, compressed body, with a forked caudal fin bearing filamentous extensions. Males have a white body with vertical black bars and a yellow spot on the back; females are darker with white spots. This species reaches 20 cm. It is gregarious and can be kept in groups. Its diet is planktivorous, feeding on zooplankton and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it is very active and swims in open water. It is one of the easiest angelfish to keep.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 250 liters is recommended. Prefer an elongated tank with good flow. Diet should be rich in plankton, brine shrimp, and mysis. It can coexist with other peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive angelfish. Water parameters must be stable, nitrates <20 mg/L. Moderate lighting is suitable. Captive breeding is possible but rare.

##### [Blackspot Angelfish](/encyclopedia/genicanthus-melanospilos)
**Genicanthus melanospilos** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The Blackspot Angelfish is an elegant and peaceful angelfish, recognizable by the black spot on its flank. It is suitable for community reef aquariums.
Genicanthus melanospilos has an elongated, compressed body with a lyre-shaped caudal fin. Males are white with black bars and a large oval black spot on the mid-body; females are grayish with black spots. This species reaches 20 cm. It is gregarious and can be kept in small groups. Its diet is planktivorous, feeding on zooplankton. In aquariums, it is active and swims in open water. It is a hardy and easy-to-acclimate species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 250 liters is recommended. Provide good flow and open swimming areas. Diet should be planktivorous, with brine shrimp, mysis, and plankton-based preparations. It is compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid territorial angelfish. Nitrates should remain <20 mg/L. Moderate lighting is sufficient. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Two-spot wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-biocellatus)
**Halichoeres biocellatus** — Labridae · fish
The Two-spot wrasse is named after the two black ocelli on its dorsal fin. It is a lively and colorful fish, suitable for community marine aquariums.
This small wrasse has an elongated body and an olive-green to brownish base color. It is distinguished by two black spots ringed with blue on the posterior part of the dorsal fin. Males display brighter colors with blue lines on the head. The caudal fin is rounded. It feeds on small benthic invertebrates that it dislodges from sand and rocks. It is an active fish that constantly swims in search of food. It buries itself in the sand for protection and sleep. Its behavior is generally peaceful, but it can be territorial towards other wrasses.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 150 liters with a sandy substrate is necessary. Ideal temperature is 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. This wrasse is carnivorous and enjoys frozen foods such as mysis, brine shrimp and small crustaceans. It can be kept alone or as a pair if the tank is spacious. It cohabits well with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid dwarf shrimp and small crabs. Moderate lighting and moderate to strong flow are recommended. Weekly water changes of 10% are sufficient.

##### [Yellow Wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-chrysus)
**Halichoeres chrysus** — Labridae · fish
The Yellow Wrasse is a small, active, and colorful wrasse, ideal for reef aquariums. It is known for its burrowing behavior and appetite for parasites.
Halichoeres chrysus has an elongated, fusiform body, with a bright yellow coloration over the entire body, sometimes with blue lines on the head. Adult males develop more orange hues. This species reaches 12 cm. It is diurnal and spends the night buried in the sand. It feeds on small crustaceans, worms, and parasites. In aquariums, it is very active and constantly swims in search of food. It is an excellent fish for pest control such as flatworms. It may jump, so a lid is necessary.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is sufficient, with a sandy substrate at least 5 cm deep to allow burrowing. Diet should be carnivorous, with brine shrimp, mysis, and small crustaceans. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish. Water parameters must be stable, nitrates <20 mg/L. Moderate lighting and flow are suitable. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Iridescent wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-iridis)
**Halichoeres iridis** — Labridae · fish
The Iridescent wrasse gets its name from its shimmering reflections that change with lighting. It is an active and hardy fish, ideal for reef aquariums.
This wrasse has an elongated body and highly variable coloration, ranging from olive green to bright blue with horizontal bands. Dominant males display iridescent shades of pink, purple and gold. The head is marked with fine lines and colored dots. It has a spiny dorsal fin and a rounded caudal fin. It is an active hunter that sifts through sand and crevices for small crustaceans and worms. It is known for its fast swimming and leaps out of the water to catch prey. Like many wrasses, it buries itself in the sand to sleep.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 200 liters with a sandy substrate is essential for this wrasse. Ideal temperature is 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Good oxygenation and moderate flow are beneficial. It feeds mainly on frozen or live meaty foods such as mysis, brine shrimp and small fish pieces. It can coexist with peaceful fish but is territorial towards other wrasses. Do not keep with dwarf shrimp or crabs that it might eat. Standard reef lighting is suitable. Weekly water changes of 10% are recommended.

##### [Yellow-head wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-leucoxanthus)
**Halichoeres leucoxanthus** — Labridae · fish
The Yellow-head wrasse is distinguished by its bright yellow head contrasting with a blue-green body. It is a peaceful and colorful fish for reef aquariums.
This modest-sized wrasse has an elongated body and a bright yellow head extending to the pectoral fin. The rest of the body is blue-green with silvery reflections. Adult males develop blue stripes on the head and a black spot on the dorsal fin. The caudal fin is slightly forked. It feeds by sifting through sand and debris, capturing small invertebrates. It is a diurnal fish that sleeps buried in the substrate. It is generally peaceful but may defend its territory against conspecifics.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 150 liters with a fine sandy substrate is recommended. Temperature should be 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. This wrasse is carnivorous and accepts frozen foods such as mysis, brine shrimp and small worms. It can be kept in a group if the tank is large enough, but only one male is advised. It cohabits well with other peaceful reef fish. Avoid very small invertebrates. Moderate lighting and moderate flow are suitable. Regular water changes (10% weekly) are necessary.

##### [Marginated wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-marginatus)
**Halichoeres marginatus** — Labridae · fish
The Marginated wrasse is a large wrasse with bright colors and a distinctive border on its fins. It is hardy and suitable for large marine aquariums.
This wrasse can reach 15 cm and has an elongated, robust body. Its coloration is variable: adult males are bright green with horizontal blue bands and a red or orange border on the dorsal and anal fins. Females are duller, often brown or greenish. The head is marked with pink or blue lines. It has a protractile mouth and powerful pharyngeal teeth to crush shells. It is an active hunter that feeds on mollusks, crustaceans and sea urchins. It is known to turn over stones in search of prey. It buries itself in the sand to sleep and hide.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is recommended due to its adult size and activity. The substrate should be sandy and deep to allow burrowing. Temperature: 24-28°C, pH: 8.1-8.4. It is carnivorous and requires a varied diet: mussels, shrimp, fish pieces, and frozen foods. It can be kept with other robust fish, but it is territorial and may attack small fish or invertebrates. Avoid decorative shellfish that it might break. Moderate to strong flow and standard lighting are suitable. Regular water changes (15% weekly) are important.

##### [Tail-spot wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-melanurus)
**Halichoeres melanurus** — Labridae · fish
The Tail-spot wrasse is a colorful reef fish easily recognized by the black spot on its tail. It is active and popular in marine aquariums.
This wrasse has an elongated, laterally compressed body with variable coloration depending on sex and age. Adult males display bright shades of green, blue and orange, while females and juveniles are more subdued. The most striking feature is the large black spot on the caudal peduncle, surrounded by blue dots. It has a continuous dorsal fin and a protractile mouth adapted for catching small invertebrates. It is a diurnal fish that spends its time foraging for food in sand and rocks. It is known for its ability to burrow into the substrate to hide or sleep.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
This wrasse requires an aquarium of at least 200 liters with a fine sandy substrate to allow burrowing. Temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Efficient filtration and good water flow are recommended. It is carnivorous and accepts frozen foods such as mysis, brine shrimp and small crustaceans. It can be kept with other peaceful fish but may be territorial towards conspecifics. Avoid housing with very small invertebrates that it might eat. Moderate lighting is suitable, but it appreciates shaded areas. Regular water changes (10% weekly) are necessary to maintain good water quality.

##### [Painted wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-pictus)
**Halichoeres pictus** — Labridae · fish
The painted wrasse is a colorful and active fish, ideal for reef aquariums. It is known for its cleaning behavior and ability to control parasites.
This wrasse has an elongated body with a vivid coloration mixing green, blue, red and yellow. Adult males display more pronounced patterns than females. It reaches up to 10 cm and has a continuous dorsal fin. It is a very active diurnal swimmer that spends its time searching for small invertebrates in the substrate. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite: females can turn into males. In aquariums, it is known to remove parasites from other fish. It may jump out of the water, so a lid is necessary.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume is 200 liters. Diet should be carnivorous: brine shrimp, mysis, krill, small crustaceans and enriched preparations. It is generally peaceful but can be territorial towards other wrasses. A lid is mandatory to prevent jumping. It can coexist with peaceful fish of similar size. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. It is sensitive to water quality, especially nitrates (max 20 mg/L) and phosphates (max 0.05 mg/L).

##### [Three-spot wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-trimaculatus)
**Halichoeres trimaculatus** — Labridae · fish
The three-spot wrasse is a robust and active fish, recognizable by its three dark spots on the back. It is valued for its cleaning role and ability to remove parasites.
This wrasse reaches up to 12 cm and has an elongated body of variable color (green, brown, reddish) with three distinctive black spots on the upper side. Males are more colorful than females. It is diurnal and constantly sifts through sand in search of prey. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics. It is known to 'clean' other fish by removing parasites. In aquariums, it needs a sandy substrate to bury itself at night.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume 300 liters. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, mysis, small crustaceans, worms. It is semi-aggressive: may harass smaller fish or other wrasses. A lid is necessary. A fine sand substrate is essential for its well-being. It cohabits best with medium to large fish. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L, phosphates 0.05 mg/L. Strong filtration is recommended.

##### [Pennant Coralfish](/encyclopedia/heniochus-acuminatus)
**Heniochus acuminatus** — Chaetodontidae · fish
The Pennant Coralfish is an elegant fish with a long pennant-like dorsal fin. It is popular in reef aquariums as it does not eat corals.
Heniochus acuminatus has a laterally compressed body, white with two broad vertical black bands. The dorsal fin is very elongated, forming a long filament. The caudal fin is yellow. It swims in groups in the wild and is very active. In an aquarium, it is peaceful and can be kept with other fish. It feeds mainly on plankton and small invertebrates. It is considered reef-safe as it does not attack corals. Its lifespan can reach 10 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is recommended, with open swimming space. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is omnivorous with a planktivorous tendency, accepting frozen and dry foods. It is important to provide a varied diet including mysis and brine shrimp. It can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough. It is compatible with corals and invertebrates. Avoid aggressive fish. Good filtration and moderate water flow are appreciated. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Lined seahorse](/encyclopedia/hippocampus-erectus)
**Hippocampus erectus** — Syngnathidae · fish
The lined seahorse is an Atlantic species, characterized by dark lines on the body. It is adapted to a wide temperature range and is popular in aquariums.
This fish has an elongated body with bony rings and a prehensile tail. Its color varies from yellow to brown, with dark longitudinal lines. It reaches up to 19 cm. It swims vertically and attaches to supports with its tail. It is monogamous and the male carries the eggs. It feeds on small crustaceans. In the aquarium, it is more tolerant than other seahorse species. It can be kept in pairs or groups. It is sensitive to water quality but adapts well to frozen food.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 19cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
Temperature 20–26 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum 100-liter tank, preferably tall, is recommended. Water flow should be low. Diet includes enriched mysis and brine shrimp, fed 2–3 times a day. Avoid fast or aggressive fish. A protein skimmer and biological filtration are essential. Keep nitrates below 10 mg/L and phosphates below 0.05 mg/L. Provide anchoring points (gorgonians, algae). Regular water changes are important. This species is hardier than the common seahorse.

##### [Common seahorse](/encyclopedia/hippocampus-kuda)
**Hippocampus kuda** — Syngnathidae · fish
The common seahorse is an iconic marine fish, recognizable by its horse-like shape and vertical swimming. It is popular in aquariums but requires specific care.
This fish has an elongated body, a horse-like head, a tubular snout, and a prehensile tail. It reaches up to 17 cm. It swims vertically using its dorsal fin. It is monogamous and forms faithful pairs. The male incubates eggs in a ventral pouch. It feeds on small planktonic crustaceans. In the aquarium, it is sensitive to stress and strong currents. It can change color for camouflage. Its behavior is calm and graceful.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 17cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
Temperature 22–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum 100-liter tank is recommended, preferably tall (60 cm) for vertical swimming. Water flow should be low to moderate. Diet should consist of enriched mysis and brine shrimp, fed several times a day. Avoid fast or aggressive fish. Seahorses are sensitive to diseases and water quality. A protein skimmer is useful. Keep nitrates below 10 mg/L and phosphates below 0.05 mg/L. Decor with gorgonians or algae allows for anchoring.

##### [Longsnout seahorse](/encyclopedia/hippocampus-reidi)
**Hippocampus reidi** — Syngnathidae · fish
Longsnout seahorse, recognizable by its elongated snout and prehensile tail.
The longsnout seahorse has an elongated body covered with bony rings. Its head is horse-shaped with a long tubular snout. It uses its tail to cling to algae and corals. It moves slowly using its dorsal fin. Males incubate eggs in a brood pouch. It changes color for camouflage. Threatened by fishing and habitat destruction.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 18cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NT
Aquarium at least 100 liters, species-only or calm reef. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Diet: brine shrimp, mysis, copepods, live or frozen food. Needs low flow and hitching posts. Compatible with peaceful fish, avoid aggressive species. Avoid stinging anemones and corals. Delicate care, for experienced aquarists.

##### [Queen angelfish](/encyclopedia/holacanthus-ciliaris)
**Holacanthus ciliaris** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The queen angelfish is a stunning blue and yellow angelfish with a blue crown on the head. It is iconic on Caribbean reefs.
This angelfish has a bright blue body with yellow-edged scales, a yellow head, and a blue crown-like spot. The dorsal and anal fins are yellow with blue edges. It can reach 45 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with yellow bands. It is territorial and semi-aggressive. It feeds mainly on sponges, algae, and tunicates. In an aquarium, it needs a large volume and live rock.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 0-0, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 600L, Size 45cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, dKH 8-12. A minimum 600-liter tank is recommended. Provide live rock for grazing and hiding. Diet should include sponges, algae, shrimp, and mussels. Avoid keeping with other similarly sized angelfish. It can be kept in a reef tank but may nip at soft corals. Moderate water flow and strong filtration are needed. Weekly 20% water changes.

##### [King Angelfish](/encyclopedia/holacanthus-passer)
**Holacanthus passer** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The King Angelfish is a large marine angelfish with vibrant colors, highly prized in reef aquariums. It requires a large water volume and a varied diet.
Holacanthus passer has an oval, laterally compressed body, with a bright blue coloration marked by vertical yellow bars and a dark spot on the gill cover. The dorsal and anal fins are elongated, the caudal fin is truncate. Juveniles are very different, with blue and yellow patterns. It is a territorial species that can become aggressive towards conspecifics. It feeds mainly on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it can reach 30 cm and live over 10 years. Its coloration intensifies with age.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 400 liters is recommended for an adult specimen. Provide plenty of hiding places and moderate lighting. The diet should be omnivorous, including sponge-based foods, algae, and meaty preparations. Avoid cohabitation with other large angelfish. Water quality must be excellent, with nitrates <20 mg/L and phosphates <0.05 mg/L. An efficient protein skimmer is essential. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Rock Beauty Angelfish](/encyclopedia/holacanthus-tricolor)
**Holacanthus tricolor** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The Rock Beauty Angelfish is a small angelfish with contrasting colors, popular for reef aquariums. It is relatively hardy but can be territorial.
Holacanthus tricolor has an oval, compressed body, with a bright yellow head and anterior part, a black body, and a yellow caudal fin. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in blue. Juveniles are yellow with black spots. This species reaches 25 cm in adulthood. It is active and spends its time foraging on the reef. Its diet consists of sponges, algae, and small crustaceans. In aquariums, it can become aggressive towards other angelfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 300 liters is recommended. Provide live rock and hiding places. Diet should include sponges, algae, and mysis. Avoid keeping it with other similarly sized angelfish. Water parameters must be stable, with nitrates <20 mg/L. Moderate lighting and flow are suitable. Captive breeding is exceptional.

##### [Cleaner wrasse](/encyclopedia/labroides-dimidiatus)
**Labroides dimidiatus** — Labridae · fish
The cleaner wrasse is a small marine reef fish famous for its cleaning behavior, removing parasites and dead tissue from other fish.
Labroides dimidiatus reaches a maximum size of about 12 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a characteristic coloration: a horizontal black stripe on a light blue to white background, and a bright yellow tail. The fins are translucent with bluish reflections. It is a very active diurnal fish, known for its mutualistic cleaning behavior. Sexual dimorphism is slight: males are slightly larger and more colorful than females, and individuals can change sex (protogyny).
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 200 liters is recommended, with stable water parameters (temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025). A rocky setup with hiding places is essential. This fish is a strict carnivore: it must be fed several times a day with small meaty foods (brine shrimp, mysis, chopped krill). It is compatible with most reef fish, but can be aggressive towards other cleaner wrasses. Caution: it may starve if the aquarium does not have enough client fish or if the diet is inadequate. It is sensitive to water quality fluctuations.

##### [Hawaiian cleaner wrasse](/encyclopedia/labroides-phthirophagus)
**Labroides phthirophagus** — Labridae · fish
Cleaner fish endemic to Hawaii, essential for fish health.
Labroides phthirophagus is a cleaner fish from the Labridae family, endemic to Hawaii. It reaches up to 10 cm. It has an elongated body with a black longitudinal stripe on a light blue background. It feeds on parasites and dead tissue from other fish. In aquariums, it can be difficult to keep as it requires specific feeding. It is peaceful and can be kept in groups.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Marine tank of at least 200 liters, with plenty of live rock and a population of client fish. Specialized diet: enriched brine shrimp, mysis, and parasite supplements. Salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Requires gradual acclimation. May starve if not enough natural food.

##### [Fringed filefish](/encyclopedia/monacanthus-ciliatus)
**Monacanthus ciliatus** — Monacanthidae · fish
The fringed filefish is a robust marine fish, recognizable by its spiny first dorsal fin and cutaneous fringes. It is valued in aquariums for its algae-cleaning role.
This fish has a laterally compressed body, color variable from gray to brown with reticulated patterns. The first dorsal fin consists of a robust spine, characteristic of Monacanthidae. Cutaneous fringes on the belly and head give it its common name. It can reach 20 cm in length. Its behavior is generally peaceful, but it can become territorial towards conspecifics. It uses its dorsal spine to wedge itself into crevices and for defense. It is an omnivore that grazes on algae and captures small invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 22–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, and salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum tank of 200 liters is recommended for an adult specimen. Provide plenty of hiding places and open swimming space. Diet should include algae (nori, spirulina) and meaty foods (brine shrimp, mysis). It can be kept in a reef tank but may nip at some soft corals. Avoid cohabitation with aggressive fish. Good water flow and efficient filtration are necessary. Nitrates should remain below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.1 mg/L.

##### [Orange-spine Unicornfish](/encyclopedia/naso-lituratus)
**Naso lituratus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Orange-spine Unicornfish is a large semi-aggressive herbivorous fish, recognizable by its frontal horn and orange caudal spines. It requires a very large aquarium.
The body is elongated and compressed, gray-blue with yellow highlights. A frontal horn is present in adults. The caudal spines are bright orange. The caudal fin is crescent-shaped. Juveniles lack the horn. It is a powerful and active swimmer. In the aquarium, it can become territorial and requires a lot of space. It feeds on algae and plankton.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 600L, Size 45cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 600-liter aquarium is essential. Herbivorous diet with algae, nori, spirulina, and plankton supplements. Be careful with other surgeonfish: it can be aggressive. Provide a large swimming area and rocks for hiding. Strong filtration and high flow are necessary. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L.

##### [Orangespine unicornfish](/encyclopedia/naso-liturgatus)
**Naso liturgatus** — Acanthuridae · fish
Surgeonfish with a frontal horn and bright orange spines. Requires a very large aquarium.
Naso liturgatus is a large surgeonfish recognizable by its frontal protuberance (horn) and two bright orange spines on the caudal peduncle. Juveniles are duller in color. It is a herbivore feeding mainly on algae. In the aquarium, it is active and needs ample swimming space. It can be kept with other robust fish but may become aggressive towards conspecifics.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 800L, Size 45cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 800 liters, with strong current and powerful filtration. Diet based on algae (nori, spirulina) and fresh vegetables. Provide hiding spots and large swimming space. Handle with care due to spines.

##### [Bluespine Unicornfish](/encyclopedia/naso-unicornis)
**Naso unicornis** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Bluespine Unicornfish is a large semi-aggressive herbivorous fish, easily recognized by its long frontal horn and blue caudal spines. It requires a very spacious aquarium.
The body is elongated, gray-blue to olive, with a long frontal horn in adults. The caudal spines are bright blue. The caudal fin is truncated. Juveniles have a short horn. It is an active fish that swims in open water. It can be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. It feeds mainly on algae but also on plankton. In the aquarium, it needs large open spaces.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 800L, Size 50cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 800-liter aquarium is recommended. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina, vegetable and plankton supplements. Avoid keeping it with other Naso or aggressive surgeonfish. A large volume with strong flow and efficient filtration is essential. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Good oxygenation is crucial.

##### [Vlaming's Tang](/encyclopedia/naso-vlamingii)
**Naso vlamingii** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Vlaming's Tang is a large reef surgeonfish, recognizable by its bluish coloration and lyre-shaped tail. It is popular in marine aquariums for its beauty but requires a large tank.
Naso vlamingii has an oval laterally compressed body, with a gray-blue to blue-violet coloration. Its caudal fin is deeply forked, forming a lyre. It has a sharp spine on each side of the caudal peduncle. It is an active fish constantly swimming in search of algae. In aquariums, it can become territorial towards other surgeonfish. It is sensitive to skin diseases like ich. It can reach 50 cm in the wild, but rarely over 30 cm in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 800L, Size 50cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 800 liters. Diet herbivorous: algae, nori, spirulina, vegetable supplements. Compatibility: avoid other surgeonfish, can coexist with peaceful fish. Needs large swimming space and hiding spots. Sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Good filtration and protein skimmer essential. Can be kept in reef but may nip at soft corals.

##### [Redtooth Triggerfish](/encyclopedia/odonus-niger)
**Odonus niger** — Balistidae · fish
Dark-bodied triggerfish with distinctive red teeth, relatively peaceful for a triggerfish.
The redtooth triggerfish has an elongated body dark blue to black, with purple highlights. Its teeth are red, visible when it opens its mouth. It is less aggressive than other triggerfish, but can become territorial. It swims actively and needs space. It feeds on plankton and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it accepts a variety of foods. It can reach 50 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 50cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 500 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: omnivorous with planktivorous tendency, frozen food, brine shrimp, mysis, and small pieces. Generally compatible with other fish of similar size. Avoid very small fish. Can be kept in reef tanks with caution as it may eat shrimp. Needs hiding places and moderate current.

##### [Longnose filefish](/encyclopedia/oxymonacanthus-longirostris)
**Oxymonacanthus longirostris** — Monacanthidae · fish
The longnose filefish is a specialized marine fish, dependent on Acropora polyps for food. Its maintenance in aquariums is very demanding.
This fish is distinguished by its elongated snout and yellow-and-blue spotted pattern. It reaches up to 12 cm. It lives in pairs or small groups in Acropora areas. Its behavior is shy and discreet. It feeds exclusively on the polyps of hard corals of the genus Acropora, making it very difficult to feed in captivity. It is sensitive to water quality and stress. In an aquarium, it requires a mature tank with live Acropora corals. It can be kept with peaceful fish but not with soft corals or other hard corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum 200-liter tank is required, with intense lighting to maintain Acropora. Diet must consist of fresh or frozen Acropora polyps, or specialized foods. It is not recommended for beginners. Cohabitation must be carefully chosen: only peaceful fish. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are imperative. Nitrates should be below 10 mg/L, phosphates below 0.05 mg/L. Calcium and magnesium supplementation is necessary for the corals.

##### [Blue tang](/encyclopedia/paracanthurus-hepatus)
**Paracanthurus hepatus** — Acanthuridae · fish
A surgeonfish with a royal blue body and yellow tail, made famous by the film Finding Nemo. Popular but requires a large aquarium.
The blue tang has a compressed oval body, bright blue with a black band from the eye extending along the back. Its caudal fin is bright yellow. It reaches up to 30 cm. It is active and swims in schools in the wild. In the aquarium, it is generally peaceful but can become territorial. It is sensitive to ich and skin diseases. Its caudal spine is sharp. It needs a large volume to swim.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 300 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Quarantine is recommended. Regular water changes and a protein skimmer are important. Keep nitrates below 5 mg/L.

##### [Orange filefish](/encyclopedia/pervagor-melanocephalus)
**Pervagor melanocephalus** — Monacanthidae · fish
The orange filefish is a small, colorful marine fish, highly prized for its bright hue and active behavior. It helps control algae in the aquarium.
This fish has an oval, compressed body, with a bright orange background color and a darker head, hence its name. The first dorsal fin is an erectile spine. It reaches up to 12 cm. It is generally peaceful but can be territorial towards other filefish. It often swims in pairs or small groups. Its diet is mainly herbivorous, grazing on filamentous algae. It may also accept meaty foods. In the aquarium, it is active and curious, constantly exploring its surroundings.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum 100-liter tank is sufficient for one specimen. Provide live rock with algae for grazing. Diet should be rich in vegetable matter (nori, spirulina) supplemented with small prey. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid aggressive or overly active fish. Moderate lighting and good water flow are recommended. Keep nitrates below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.1 mg/L.

##### [Blue-ring angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-annularis)
**Pomacanthus annularis** — Pomacanthidae · fish
A large reef angelfish with characteristic blue rings on a brown-green body. Requires a very large aquarium.
Pomacanthus annularis is an impressive angelfish reaching 30 cm. Adults have a brown-green body with curved blue lines forming rings, and a yellow caudal fin. Juveniles are dark blue with white lines. It inhabits Indo-Pacific reefs, often in pairs. In aquariums, it needs a large volume and varied diet. It can be aggressive towards other angelfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 500 L with large rocks and hiding spots. Strong filtration, high water quality. Diet: algae, spirulina, mysis, brine shrimp, and sponge-based foods. Caution with soft corals.

##### [Gray angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-arcuatus)
**Pomacanthus arcuatus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The gray angelfish is a large angelfish with a gray-blue body and yellow-edged scales, very popular in large marine aquariums.
Pomacanthus arcuatus can reach 60 cm in length. Adults have a gray-blue body with yellow-edged scales, elongated dorsal and anal fins, and a small mouth. Juveniles are striped blue and yellow. It is an intelligent and curious fish, but can become aggressive towards other angelfish. It requires a very large aquarium with plenty of swimming space. It is omnivorous, feeding on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In captivity, it can live over 20 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-10, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 1000L, Size 60cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 1000 liters is essential. The decor should be stable with large rocks and hiding places. It is not suitable for reef tanks as it consumes sponges and may damage corals. Feed with varied foods: algae, brine shrimp, mysis, fish and shrimp pieces, and preparations for large angelfish. It is sensitive to water quality, requires powerful filtration and a protein skimmer. Avoid keeping it with other large angelfish.

##### [Arabian angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-asfur)
**Pomacanthus asfur** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The Arabian angelfish is a magnificent angelfish with a dark blue body and a broad vertical yellow band, highly sought after for its spectacular coloration.
Pomacanthus asfur grows up to 40 cm. Adults have a dark blue almost black body with a broad bright yellow band on the flank, and fins edged with light blue. Juveniles are blue with white curved lines. It is a territorial and sometimes aggressive fish, especially towards other angelfish. It needs a large aquarium with hiding places. It feeds mainly on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In captivity, it can live 15-20 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-10, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 800L, Size 40cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Minimum tank volume 800 liters. A decor with large rocks and caves is necessary. It is not recommended for reef tanks as it consumes sponges and may attack corals. Feed with algae, brine shrimp, mysis, fish pieces, and vitamin-enriched foods. Powerful filtration and a protein skimmer are essential. It can coexist with robust fish of similar size, but avoid other angelfish.

##### [Goldtail angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-chrysurus)
**Pomacanthus chrysurus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The goldtail angelfish is a large marine angelfish easily recognized by its bright yellow tail and blue-green body. It inhabits coral reefs of the western Indian Ocean.
This angelfish has a laterally compressed body colored blue-green with black-edged scales, a lighter head, and a brilliant yellow tail. Juveniles are dark blue with vertical white bands. It can reach 30 cm in length. It is territorial and semi-aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It feeds mainly on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In an aquarium, it requires hiding places and a large water volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 0-0, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, and dKH 8-12. A minimum tank size of 500 liters is recommended for an adult. Provide plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. Diet should include sponges, algae (nori, spirulina), and meaty foods (shrimp, mussels). Avoid keeping with other similarly sized angelfish. It can be kept in a reef tank but may nip at some soft corals. Strong filtration and moderate water flow are required. Perform 20% weekly water changes.

##### [Emperor angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-imperator)
**Pomacanthus imperator** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Large royal angelfish with bright colors: blue and yellow with stripes. Highly prized but requires a large aquarium.
The emperor angelfish grows up to 40 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white and blue stripes. Adults have a bright blue body with yellow stripes and a blue head. The dorsal fin is yellow. It is a territorial and aggressive fish towards other angelfish. It is sensitive to diseases. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 600L, Size 40cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 600 liters. Omnivorous: sponges, algae, mysis, brine shrimp. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid other angelfish and shy fish. Requires a varied diet. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Yellowbar angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-maculosus)
**Pomacanthus maculosus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
A large reef angelfish with a distinctive yellow bar on a blue-purple body. Very decorative but demanding.
Pomacanthus maculosus is a spectacular angelfish reaching 50 cm. Adults have a blue-purple body with a broad vertical yellow bar in the middle, and yellow fins. Juveniles are dark blue with white lines. It lives in reefs of the Indian Ocean and Red Sea. In aquariums, it requires a very large tank and a diet rich in algae and sponges. It can be aggressive towards conspecifics.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 600L, Size 50cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 600 L with large rocks and strong filtration. Very stable water, low nitrates. Diet: algae, spirulina, mysis, brine shrimp, and sponge-based foods. Avoid small fish and invertebrates.

##### [Blue-girdled angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-navarchus)
**Pomacanthus navarchus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The blue-girdled angelfish is distinguished by a broad vertical blue band on its yellow body. It is found on reefs of the Indo-Pacific.
This angelfish has a bright yellow body with a broad vertical blue band across the mid-body and blue markings on the head. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in blue. It reaches 30 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white bands. It is territorial and can become aggressive towards other angelfish. It feeds on sponges, algae, and tunicates. In an aquarium, it needs space and live rock.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 0-0, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, dKH 8-12. A minimum 500-liter tank is required. Provide live rock for grazing and hiding. Diet should be varied: sponges, algae, shrimp, mussels. Avoid cohabitation with other large angelfish. It can be kept in a reef tank with caution. Moderate water flow and efficient filtration are needed. Weekly 20% water changes.

##### [French angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-paru)
**Pomacanthus paru** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The French angelfish is a large black angelfish with yellow scales and a white mouth. It is common on Caribbean reefs.
This angelfish has a black body with yellow-edged scales, giving a reticulated appearance. The mouth is white and the pectoral fins are yellow. Juveniles are black with vertical yellow bands. It can reach 40 cm. It is territorial and semi-aggressive. It feeds mainly on sponges, algae, and bryozoans. In an aquarium, it needs a large volume and many hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 0-0, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 600L, Size 40cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, dKH 8-12. A minimum 600-liter tank is recommended. Provide live rock for grazing. Diet should include sponges, algae, shrimp, and mussels. Avoid keeping with other similarly sized angelfish. It can be kept in a reef tank but may nip at soft corals. Moderate water flow and strong filtration are needed. Weekly 20% water changes.

##### [Semicircle angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-semicirculatus)
**Pomacanthus semicirculatus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Large angelfish with blue and yellow colors and a semicircular pattern. Less known than the emperor but equally beautiful.
The semicircle angelfish grows up to 35 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white and blue stripes. Adults have a bright blue body with yellow stripes and a characteristic semicircular spot on the flank. The dorsal fin is yellow. It is a territorial and aggressive fish towards other angelfish. It is sensitive to diseases. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 35cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 500 liters. Omnivorous: sponges, algae, mysis, brine shrimp. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid other angelfish and shy fish. Requires a varied diet. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Six-banded angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-sexstriatus)
**Pomacanthus sexstriatus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The six-banded angelfish is a large angelfish with a yellow body and six vertical blue bands. It lives on Indo-Pacific reefs.
This angelfish has a bright yellow body crossed by six dark blue vertical bands. The head is blue with yellow markings. The dorsal and anal fins are yellow with blue edges. It can reach 45 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white bands. It is territorial and semi-aggressive. It feeds on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In an aquarium, it requires a very large volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 0-0, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 700L, Size 45cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, dKH 8-12. A minimum 700-liter tank is essential. Provide plenty of live rock and hiding places. Diet should be rich in sponges and algae, supplemented with meaty foods. Avoid cohabitation with other large angelfish. It can be kept in a reef tank but may attack soft corals. Moderate water flow and efficient filtration are needed. Weekly 20% water changes.

##### [Picasso Triggerfish](/encyclopedia/rhinecanthus-aculeatus)
**Rhinecanthus aculeatus** — Balistidae · fish
Colorful and intricately patterned triggerfish, very active and intelligent.
The Picasso triggerfish has an oval laterally compressed body, with patterns of blue, yellow, and black lines. It has an erectile dorsal spine. It is known for its curious and sometimes aggressive behavior. It can recognize its owner and beg for food. In aquariums, it needs plenty of space and rocks to hide. It can reach 30 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 400 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: omnivorous, will accept frozen foods, shrimp, fish pieces, and algae. Moderately aggressive, can coexist with other robust fish. Avoid invertebrates. Needs hiding places and sandy substrate. May jump, so a lid is necessary.

##### [Halfmoon Triggerfish](/encyclopedia/sufflamen-chrysopterum)
**Sufflamen chrysopterum** — Balistidae · fish
Brown triggerfish with a white crescent-shaped mark on the flank.
The halfmoon triggerfish has an oval body, dark brown to black, with a curved white band on the flank. It has a dorsal spine. It is moderately aggressive, often territorial. It feeds on invertebrates and algae. In aquariums, it is hardy but requires a large volume. It can reach 30 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 400 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: omnivorous, will accept frozen foods, shrimp, fish pieces, and algae. Less aggressive than some triggerfish but can be territorial. Compatible with other robust fish. Avoid invertebrates. Needs rocks to hide. A lid is recommended.

##### [Ocellated dragonet](/encyclopedia/synchiropus-ocellatus)
**Synchiropus ocellatus** — Callionymidae · fish
Small, brightly colored dragonet with orange body and blue spots. Ideal for reef tanks.
The ocellated dragonet is a peaceful bottom-dwelling fish. It feeds on small crustaceans and copepods. Requires a mature tank with a stable microfauna population. Its vibrant coloration makes it a favorite among experienced aquarists.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a tank of at least 100L with plenty of live rock. Live food (brine shrimp, copepods). Avoid aggressive tankmates.

##### [Spotted mandarinfish](/encyclopedia/synchiropus-picturatus)
**Synchiropus picturatus** — Callionymidae · fish
The spotted mandarinfish is a small, colorful reef fish with striking green and orange spotted patterns. It is highly sought after in the aquarium trade but challenging to keep due to its specialized feeding requirements.
Synchiropus picturatus reaches up to 8 cm. Its elongated body is covered in a bright green reticulated pattern with orange and black spots. The fins are large and ornate, with the first dorsal fin especially tall in males. Males are larger and have a more elongated first dorsal ray than females. Behavior is peaceful and secretive, spending the day foraging for food on the substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is required, with a mature system and a large population of live copepods. Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A rocky setup with plenty of hiding places is essential. Diet must consist of live prey (copepods, brine shrimp); it often refuses prepared foods. It is compatible with peaceful fish but may be bullied by aggressive species. Warning: do not add to a new tank, as it will starve.

##### [Mandarinfish](/encyclopedia/synchiropus-splendidus)
**Synchiropus splendidus** — Callionymidae · fish
The mandarinfish is a small, brightly colored reef fish highly prized in aquariums but difficult to keep.
The mandarinfish grows up to 6 cm. Its body is elongated and covered with wavy blue, orange, and green patterns. Males have a greatly elongated first dorsal fin. It moves by crawling on the substrate in search of small crustaceans. It is shy and spends most of its time hidden. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced: males have a longer dorsal spine and brighter colors.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is required, with mature water and an abundant copepod population. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. The decor should include plenty of live rock and hiding places. Diet consists exclusively of live prey such as copepods and amphipods. It is compatible with peaceful fish but may be aggressive towards conspecifics. Warning: do not introduce into a new tank or with fish that compete for food.

##### [Starry dragonet](/encyclopedia/synchiropus-stellatus)
**Synchiropus stellatus** — Callionymidae · fish
Small bottom-dwelling fish with star-like patterns on the body.
The starry dragonet has an elongated body and broad pectoral fins. Its coloration is variable, often with white or blue spots. Males have a tall dorsal fin. It moves by hopping on the sand. It feeds on small invertebrates. Peaceful and discreet species. Can be kept in groups if space is sufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium at least 60 liters, reef with fine sand. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Diet: small live or frozen crustaceans. Needs varied diet. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate care. Good water quality required.

##### [Goldbar wrasse](/encyclopedia/thalassoma-hebraicum)
**Thalassoma hebraicum** — Labridae · fish
Active and colorful fish, recognizable by its gold bar.
The goldbar wrasse is a lively fish requiring a large tank with plenty of swimming space. It can be aggressive towards smaller fish. Its green color and gold bar are very attractive.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 300L. Provide a lid as it jumps. Varied diet (brine shrimp, mysis, small fish).

##### [Moon wrasse](/encyclopedia/thalassoma-lunare)
**Thalassoma lunare** — Labridae · fish
The moon wrasse is a colorful reef fish from the Indo-Pacific, recognizable by its crescent-shaped tail. It is active and popular in marine aquariums.
The moon wrasse reaches a maximum size of about 25 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed. Adult males display a bright blue-green coloration with a yellow tail marked by a black crescent-shaped spot. Females and juveniles are duller, often olive green or brownish. It is a very active diurnal fish that swims constantly in search of food. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced: males are larger and more colorful than females.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 300 liters is recommended for an adult specimen, with plenty of open swimming space and live rock for hiding. Temperature should be maintained between 24 and 28 °C, pH between 8.1 and 8.4, and salinity between 1.020 and 1.025. This fish is carnivorous and accepts a variety of meaty foods (shrimp, mussels, fish). It can be aggressive towards small fish and invertebrates, so it is not suitable for reef tanks. Strong filtration and regular water changes are necessary.

##### [Desjardin's sailfin tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-desjardinii)
**Zebrasoma desjardinii** — Acanthuridae · fish
Desjardin's sailfin tang is a marine reef fish with a tall, laterally compressed body, recognizable by its yellow and black stripes and large sail-like dorsal fin.
This surgeonfish reaches up to 40 cm in length. Its body is oval and highly compressed, with an extremely developed dorsal fin that unfurls like a sail. Juvenile coloration is bright yellow with vertical black bands, while adults become darker with complex patterns. It has a sharp caudal spine used for defense. It is a herbivorous grazer feeding mainly on filamentous algae. It is active during the day and can be territorial towards other surgeonfish. In an aquarium, it requires a large water volume and a diet rich in vegetables.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 40cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, and salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum tank size of 500 liters is recommended for an adult. The diet should consist of algae (nori, spirulina) and fresh vegetables, supplemented with vitamin-enriched foods. Avoid keeping it with other surgeonfish in insufficient volume, as it can become aggressive. It is sensitive to skin diseases like ich and requires good filtration. Abundant live rock promotes natural grazing. Cohabitation with peaceful fish is possible if space is adequate.

##### [Yellow tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-flavescens)
**Zebrasoma flavescens** — Acanthuridae · fish
An iconic reef fish with a bright yellow body and high dorsal fin. Very popular in reef aquariums.
The yellow tang has a laterally compressed oval body, entirely bright yellow. Its dorsal fin is tall and continuous, and its tail is white. It has a sharp spine on each side of the caudal peduncle, used for defense. Juveniles are often solitary, while adults form groups. It is an essential algae grazer for reef balance. In the aquarium, it swims actively and needs plenty of space. It can become territorial towards other surgeonfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 300 L with stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Moderate lighting and good water flow are necessary. It is herbivorous: feed with dried algae (nori), blanched vegetables, and spirulina-enriched foods. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes and a protein skimmer are recommended. Keep nitrates below 5 mg/L and phosphates below 0.05 mg/L.

##### [Gem tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-gemmatum)
**Zebrasoma gemmatum** — Acanthuridae · fish
The gem tang is a rare and highly prized fish with a blue-violet body covered in bright yellow spots, resembling gems.
This surgeonfish reaches about 20 cm in length. Its body is oval and compressed, with a tall dorsal fin but less developed than in Z. desjardinii. The coloration is deep blue-violet with many small yellow spots on the head, body and fins. The caudal fin is yellow. It has a well-developed caudal spine. It is a herbivore that grazes algae on reefs. It is generally solitary and territorial. Due to its rarity, it is highly sought after by experienced aquarists.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 300 liters is required. Temperature should be 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4. The diet must be rich in algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetables. It is sensitive to stress and disease; quarantine is recommended. Avoid cohabitation with other surgeonfish in a small volume. Powerful filtration and moderate lighting are advised. It can be kept with peaceful, non-aggressive fish. Captive breeding is unknown.

##### [Longnose surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-rostratum)
**Zebrasoma rostratum** — Acanthuridae · fish
The longnose surgeonfish is distinguished by its elongated snout and dark, almost black coloration with a white caudal fin.
This surgeonfish reaches 30 cm in length. Its body is oval and compressed, with a distinctly elongated snout giving it a unique appearance. Coloration is dark brown to black, with a contrasting white caudal fin. Juveniles are lighter with patterns. It has a well-developed caudal spine. It is a herbivore that grazes algae. It is active and can be territorial. In an aquarium, it requires a large swimming space. It is less common in the trade than other Zebrasoma.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 400 liters is recommended. Maintain a temperature of 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4. The diet should be based on algae (nori, spirulina) and fresh vegetables. It is sensitive to ich and stress. Good filtration and moderate water flow are necessary. Avoid cohabitation with aggressive surgeonfish. It can be kept with peaceful fish. Captive breeding is not documented.

##### [Brown tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-scopas)
**Zebrasoma scopas** — Acanthuridae · fish
The brown tang is a modest-sized surgeonfish with an olive-brown body, lighter horizontal lines, and a yellow caudal fin.
This fish reaches about 20 cm in length. Its body is oval and compressed, with a tall dorsal fin but less spectacular than that of Z. desjardinii. Coloration is olive-brown with light horizontal lines on the flanks. The caudal fin is bright yellow. Juveniles are more yellow with dark spots. It has a caudal spine. It is a herbivorous algae grazer. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial towards conspecifics. It is one of the easiest surgeonfish to keep.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 300 liters is sufficient. Temperature 24-28 °C, pH 8.1-8.4. Diet based on algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetables. It readily accepts prepared foods. It is hardy and less prone to diseases than other surgeonfish. Good filtration and moderate lighting are recommended. It can coexist with other peaceful fish, but avoid multiple males in a small volume. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Sailfin tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-veliferum)
**Zebrasoma veliferum** — Acanthuridae · fish
Majestic surgeonfish with a large sail-like dorsal fin, highly prized in marine aquariums.
The sailfin tang is a large marine fish (up to 40 cm) recognizable by its very tall dorsal fin that spreads like a sail. Its coloration is brown-yellow with dark vertical bands. It is herbivorous and grazes on algae on rocks. It is an active fish that requires a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 40cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 300 liters with rockwork and algae to graze. Stable water with salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Can be territorial towards other surgeonfish. Feed with dried algae (nori), spirulina-based pellets, and fresh vegetables.

##### [Yellowtail tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-xanthurum)
**Zebrasoma xanthurum** — Acanthuridae · fish
A surgeonfish with a purplish-brown body and bright yellow tail. Less common than the yellow tang, but equally appreciated.
The yellowtail tang has an oval body, purplish-brown with bluish highlights. Its caudal fin is bright yellow, contrasting with the body. It has a sharp caudal spine. Adults reach up to 20 cm. It is active and constantly swims in search of algae. In the aquarium, it can be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. It needs a large volume to swim freely.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 300 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Avoid cohabitation with other surgeonfish in a small volume. Parameters must be stable, with low nitrates. A protein skimmer is recommended.

##### [Barrier reef clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-akindynos)
**Amphiprion akindynos** — Pomacentridae · fish
The barrier reef clownfish is an endemic species of the Great Barrier Reef region, with an orange-brown body and two white bars. It is moderately territorial and associates with Heteractis anemones.
This clownfish has an orange-brown body with two vertical white bars: one behind the eye and one on the caudal peduncle. The fins are light orange. It reaches up to 13 cm. It is a semi-aggressive species that defends its anemone but tolerates other fish if space is sufficient. It lives in pairs or small groups. In an aquarium, it requires an appropriate volume to avoid conflicts. Its coloration resembles that of Amphiprion chrysopterus but lighter. It is appreciated for its hardiness and ease of adaptation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 13cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, GH 8–12 dGH, KH 8–12 dKH, nitrates < 20 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. A minimum 120-liter tank is recommended for a pair. Omnivorous diet includes brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and pellets. This species is compatible with similarly sized reef fish, but avoid very shy fish. It accepts anemones but can do without. Moderate lighting and efficient filtration are required. Weekly 10% water changes are important. Monitor parameters to avoid nitrate spikes.

##### [Two-band clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-bicinctus)
**Amphiprion bicinctus** — Pomacentridae · fish
The two-band clownfish is a large clownfish from the Red Sea, recognizable by its two vertical white bands. It is hardy and suitable for reef aquariums.
Amphiprion bicinctus has a bright orange body with two vertical white bands: one behind the eye and one mid-body. The tail is white or yellow. It can reach 14 cm. It is a territorial fish, but less aggressive than some. It lives in symbiosis with anemones (Entacmaea, Stichodactyla). It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods. Captive breeding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 100 liters. Diet omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis. Compatibility: can coexist with other peaceful fish, but territorial towards other clownfish. Ideal in pair. Needs hiding spots. Can be kept in reef. Good filtration required. Susceptible to diseases if stressed.

##### [Orange-fin clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-chrysopterus)
**Amphiprion chrysopterus** — Pomacentridae · fish
The orange-fin clownfish is a robust and territorial species, recognizable by its bright orange fins and dark brown body. It lives in symbiosis with sea anemones of the genus Heteractis.
This clownfish has a dark brown to blackish body with two vertical white bars, one behind the eye and one on the caudal peduncle. The dorsal, anal and caudal fins are bright orange. Adults reach up to 15 cm. It is an aggressive species that fiercely defends its anemone and territory. It forms monogamous pairs and can live in a hierarchical group. In an aquarium, it requires enough space to avoid conflicts.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, general hardness (GH) 8–12 dGH and carbonate hardness (KH) 8–12 dKH. Nitrates should not exceed 20 ppm and phosphates 0.1 ppm. A minimum tank size of 150 liters is recommended for a pair. Feed a varied diet: brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and pellets for marine fish. This species is aggressive towards other clownfish and shy fish; choose robust tankmates. It readily accepts anemones but can do without. Efficient filtration and moderate lighting are required. Regular water changes (10% weekly) are essential.

##### [Clark's anemonefish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-clarkii)
**Amphiprion clarkii** — Pomacentridae · fish
Robust and adaptable clownfish, recognizable by its white bands and yellow tail. Can live without an anemone.
Amphiprion clarkii is one of the most widespread clownfish. It has a dark brown to black body with two vertical white bands (one behind the eye, one mid-body) and a bright yellow tail. It is very hardy and adapts to different environments. In the aquarium, it readily accepts prepared foods. It can be kept as a pair or in a group in a sufficiently large tank. It is territorial but generally peaceful with other species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 100 liters. Accepts a wide variety of foods (flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis). Can be kept without an anemone. Provide hiding places (rocks, corals). Stable water with good filtration.

##### [Red saddle clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-ephippium)
**Amphiprion ephippium** — Pomacentridae · fish
The red saddle clownfish is a small clownfish characterized by a large red patch on its back. It is popular in reef aquariums for its bright color and interesting behavior.
Amphiprion ephippium has a bright orange body with a large red or brown patch on the back, saddle-shaped. A vertical white band behind the eye. Fins are orange. It reaches 10 cm. It is a territorial fish but less aggressive than other clownfish. It lives in symbiosis with anemones (Stichodactyla, Heteractis). It is omnivorous and easy to feed. Captive breeding is possible.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 80 liters. Diet omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis. Compatibility: can coexist with other peaceful fish, but territorial towards other clownfish. Ideal in pair. Needs hiding spots. Can be kept in reef. Good filtration required. Sensitive to parameter fluctuations.

##### [Tomato clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-frenatus)
**Amphiprion frenatus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Bright red clownfish with a single white vertical band behind the eye. Popular in marine aquariums.
The tomato clownfish reaches 14 cm. Its body is bright orange-red, with a single white vertical band just behind the eye. The fins are orange. The female is larger than the male. It is territorial but less aggressive than other clownfish. It can be kept in pairs or groups with a hierarchy. It is hardy and adapts well to captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 120 liters. Omnivorous: brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid very aggressive fish. An anemone is not essential but appreciated. Captive breeding possible.

##### [White-headed clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-leucokranos)
**Amphiprion leucokranos** — Pomacentridae · fish
The white-headed clownfish is distinguished by its white head contrasting with an orange-brown body. It is a relatively peaceful species that lives in association with Stichodactyla and Heteractis anemones.
This clownfish has a characteristic white head, an orange-brown body and a single vertical white bar on the flank. The fins are light orange. It reaches about 12 cm. It is less aggressive than other clownfish, but will defend its anemone. It lives in pairs or small hierarchical groups. In an aquarium, it adapts well and can coexist with other peaceful fish. Its unique coloration makes it a favorite among aquarists.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, GH 8–12 dGH, KH 8–12 dKH, nitrates < 20 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. A minimum 100-liter tank is suitable for a pair. Diet is omnivorous: brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and pellets. This species is compatible with most peaceful reef fish. It readily accepts anemones but can live without. Moderate lighting and efficient filtration are recommended. Weekly 10% water changes maintain quality. Avoid overly aggressive tankmates.

##### [McCulloch's clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-mccullochi)
**Amphiprion mccullochi** — Pomacentridae · fish
McCulloch's clownfish is a rare endemic species with a dark brown body and a broad vertical white bar. It is classified as vulnerable due to its very restricted range.
This clownfish has a dark brown to blackish body with a single broad vertical white bar in the middle of the body. The fins are dark, sometimes with a slight orange tint. It reaches up to 12 cm. It is a semi-aggressive species that defends its territory. It lives in symbiosis with Heteractis crispa and Stichodactyla haddoni anemones. In an aquarium, it is rare and sought after. Its care is similar to other clownfish, but requires special attention to water quality. Captive breeding is possible but uncommon.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Stable parameters: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, GH 8–12 dGH, KH 8–12 dKH, nitrates < 20 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. A minimum 120-liter tank is recommended for a pair. Omnivorous diet should be varied: brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and quality pellets. This species is moderately aggressive; choose robust tankmates. It accepts anemones but can live without. Moderate lighting and strong filtration are recommended. Regular water changes (10% weekly) are crucial. Due to its vulnerable status, prefer captive-bred specimens.

##### [Blackfoot clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-melanopus)
**Amphiprion melanopus** — Pomacentridae · fish
The blackfoot clownfish is distinguished by its bright orange coloration with a black belly and a white band behind the eye. It is a hardy and territorial fish, ideal for reef aquariums.
Amphiprion melanopus has a bright orange body, with a large black area on the belly and lower part. A vertical white band crosses the eye. Fins are orange. It can reach 12 cm. It is a very territorial fish, especially towards other clownfish. It lives in symbiosis with anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor). It is omnivorous and readily accepts prepared foods. Captive breeding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 100 liters. Diet omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis. Compatibility: avoid multiple clownfish, ideal in pair. Territorial, may attack other fish. Needs hiding spots. Can be kept in reef. Good filtration required. Susceptible to diseases if stressed.

##### [Ocellaris clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-ocellaris)
**Amphiprion ocellaris** — Pomacentridae · fish
A small orange and white marine fish, famous for its association with anemones. Very popular and easy to keep.
The ocellaris clownfish has a bright orange body with three vertical white bands edged in black. The dorsal fin is tall and rounded. It reaches up to 8 cm. It is a protandrous hermaphrodite: all juveniles are male, the dominant one becomes female. It lives in a hierarchical group with a dominant female. In the aquarium, it often accepts artificial anemones. It is very hardy and adapts well to captivity. It can be aggressive towards intruders in its territory.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 80 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Omnivorous, feed with pellets, brine shrimp, and algae. It is recommended to keep it as a pair or in a small group. An anemone is not mandatory but appreciated. Avoid aggressive fish. Regular water changes are important. It is sensitive to high nitrate levels.

##### [Percula clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-percula)
**Amphiprion percula** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small bright orange fish with white bands, famous for its association with sea anemones. Very popular in marine aquariums.
The percula clownfish grows up to 11 cm. Its body is bright orange with three white bands edged in black. The caudal fin is rounded. It exhibits sexual dimorphism: the female is larger than the male. It is a territorial fish that defends its anemone. It communicates through clicking sounds and postures. In aquariums, it can live without an anemone but adapts to other substitutes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 11cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 100 liters. Omnivorous: feed with brine shrimp, mysis, and flake food. Compatible with other peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive fish. Introducing an anemone is recommended but not mandatory. Captive breeding is possible with a formed pair.

##### [Pink clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-perideraion)
**Amphiprion perideraion** — Pomacentridae · fish
The pink clownfish is an elegant species with a pinkish-orange body and a single vertical white bar. It is one of the most peaceful clownfish, ideal for community reef aquariums.
This clownfish has a uniform pinkish-orange body, a vertical white bar just behind the eye and another at the base of the caudal fin. The fins are translucent with a pink tint. It reaches up to 10 cm. It is a very peaceful species, even towards other clownfish, which is rare. It lives in symbiosis with Heteractis magnifica and Stichodactyla gigantea anemones. In an aquarium, it adapts easily and can be kept in groups. Its small size and calm temperament make it an excellent choice for reef beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Recommended parameters: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, GH 8–12 dGH, KH 8–12 dKH, nitrates < 20 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. A minimum 80-liter tank is sufficient for a pair. Omnivorous diet includes brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and pellets. This species is highly compatible with peaceful reef fish and invertebrates. It accepts anemones but can live without. Moderate lighting and gentle filtration are adequate. Regular 10% weekly water changes are important. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish.

##### [Saddleback clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-polymnus)
**Amphiprion polymnus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Clownfish characterized by a broad white saddle-shaped band on the back. Less common than other species.
Amphiprion polymnus has a dark brown to black body with a broad white band on the back resembling a saddle, and a white band behind the eye. The tail is white or pale yellow. It is usually associated with sea anemones (Heteractis magnifica, Stichodactyla haddoni). In the aquarium, it is less hardy than Clark's anemonefish but still easy to keep. It is territorial but peaceful with other fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 150 liters. Provide a host anemone if possible (Heteractis magnifica). Varied diet (flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis). Stable, well-filtered water. Avoid aggressive tankmates.

##### [Sebae clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-sebae)
**Amphiprion sebae** — Pomacentridae · fish
The Sebae clownfish is a medium-sized clownfish, characterized by its bright yellow tail and white band behind the eye. It is appreciated in reef aquariums for its hardiness and symbiosis with anemones.
Amphiprion sebae has a bright orange body with a vertical white band behind the eye and a yellow tail. Fins are orange. It can reach 12 cm. It is a territorial fish that lives in symbiosis with anemones (Stichodactyla, Heteractis). It is hardier than other clownfish. In aquariums, it can be kept without anemone. It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods. Captive breeding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 100 liters. Diet omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis. Compatibility: can coexist with other peaceful fish, but territorial towards other clownfish. Ideal in pair. Needs hiding spots. Can be kept in reef. Good filtration required. Sensitive to salinity fluctuations.

##### [Black-axil chromis](/encyclopedia/chromis-atripectoralis)
**Chromis atripectoralis** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small schooling fish with blue-green body and a black spot at the axil of pectoral fins. Ideal for reef aquarium.
Chromis atripectoralis is a small fish of the Pomacentridae family. It has an elongated body of iridescent blue-green color, with a characteristic black spot at the axil of each pectoral fin. The fins are translucent. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups in the wild. In the aquarium, it is peaceful and active, swimming in open water. It feeds on zooplankton and accepts fine foods. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 200 liters for a school of 6 or more. Very stable water, efficient filtration. Fine food (zooplankton, brine shrimp, crushed flakes). Provide open swimming space. Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Blue chromis](/encyclopedia/chromis-cyanea)
**Chromis cyanea** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small bright blue fish from the Caribbean, forming schools. Highly valued in reef aquariums.
The blue chromis grows up to 12 cm. Its body is bright blue with a darker shade on the back. The fins are blue. It is a peaceful and active fish that swims in schools. It is less territorial than other damselfish. In aquariums, it is hardy and easy to keep. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 200 liters for a school. Omnivorous: plankton, brine shrimp, mysis. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 5. Avoid aggressive fish. Captive breeding possible.

##### [Green chromis](/encyclopedia/chromis-viridis)
**Chromis viridis** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small bright green fish forming large schools. Ideal for community reef aquariums.
The green chromis grows up to 10 cm. Its body is bright green with bluish reflections. The fins are translucent. It is a peaceful fish that lives in schools. In aquariums, it is active and swims in open water. It is sensitive to stress if kept alone. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate prepared by the male.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 200 liters for a school of 6. Omnivorous: plankton, brine shrimp, mysis, flakes. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive fish. Keep in groups of at least 5-6 to reduce stress. Captive breeding possible.

##### [Blue damselfish](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-cyanea)
**Chrysiptera cyanea** — Pomacentridae · fish
The blue damselfish is a small, lively marine fish with electric blue coloration. It is very hardy and ideal for beginners.
The body is elongated and entirely bright blue, sometimes with a yellow tint on the tail. The fins are translucent. It is an active fish that swims throughout the water column. It is territorial but can live in groups in a large tank. It reproduces by laying eggs on a flat surface. Males become more aggressive during breeding. It is a very common species in the aquarium trade.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is sufficient. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Salinity 1.020-1.025. It is a hardy fish that tolerates variations. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. It can be kept in groups of 3-5 in a large tank. Beware of intraspecific aggression. It is compatible with most reef fish. Stable parameters are needed to avoid stress.

##### [Azure damselfish](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-hemicyanea)
**Chrysiptera hemicyanea** — Pomacentridae · fish
The azure damselfish is a bright blue marine fish with a yellow belly. It is popular for its contrasting coloration.
The body is electric blue on top and bright yellow on the belly and tail. The fins are blue with iridescence. It is an active and territorial fish. It can be kept in groups in a large tank. It reproduces by laying eggs on rocks. Males guard the eggs. It is a hardy and easy-to-keep species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Salinity 1.020-1.025. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Can be kept in groups of 3-5. Beware of aggression between males. Compatible with most reef fish. Efficient filtration is required. Parameters must be stable.

##### [Yellowtail damselfish](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-parasema)
**Chrysiptera parasema** — Pomacentridae · fish
The yellowtail damselfish is a blue marine fish with a bright yellow tail. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners.
The body is dark to light blue, with a fully yellow tail. The dorsal and anal fins are blue. It is an active fish that swims in open water. It is territorial but can coexist with other fish. It reproduces by laying eggs on hard substrates. Males become more colorful during breeding. It is a very common species in the hobby.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is sufficient. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Salinity 1.020-1.025. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Can be kept in groups of 3-5. Beware of intraspecific aggression. Compatible with most reef fish. Good filtration is recommended. Parameters must be stable.

##### [King damselfish](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-rex)
**Chrysiptera rex** — Pomacentridae · fish
The king damselfish is a bright blue marine fish with a yellow stripe on the back. It is appreciated for its beauty and hardiness.
The body is bright blue with a broad yellow longitudinal stripe on the back. The tail is yellow. The fins are blue. It is an active and territorial fish. It can be kept in groups in a large tank. It reproduces by laying eggs on flat surfaces. Males guard the eggs. It is a hardy and easy-to-keep species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Salinity 1.020-1.025. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Can be kept in groups of 3-5. Beware of aggression between males. Compatible with most reef fish. Efficient filtration is required. Parameters must be stable.

##### [Rolland's Demoiselle](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-rollandi)
**Chrysiptera rollandi** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small bright yellow damselfish with a black-marked dorsal fin. Peaceful species suitable for reef aquariums.
Chrysiptera rollandi grows up to 6 cm. Its body is bright yellow with a black spot on the anterior part of the dorsal fin. The pelvic and anal fins are also yellow. It is a diurnal species that lives in small groups in the wild. It feeds on zooplankton and algae. In aquariums, it is generally peaceful but can become territorial if space is limited. Its vivid coloration makes it a highly appreciated fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12 and KH 8-12. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L and phosphates 0.1 mg/L. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Diet should be varied: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp and algae. This species is compatible with other peaceful fish and reef invertebrates. Avoid keeping it with overly aggressive fish. A setup with live rock and hiding places is ideal.

##### [Three-stripe damselfish](/encyclopedia/dascyllus-aruanus)
**Dascyllus aruanus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small white fish with three vertical black bands. Very active and territorial despite its size.
The three-stripe damselfish grows up to 10 cm. Its body is white with three vertical black bands. The fins are white. It is a very active and territorial fish, especially towards other damselfish. It can be aggressive in a small tank. It lives in small groups in the wild. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 150 liters. Omnivorous: brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid shy fish. Can be kept in groups if tank is large. Territorial, introduce last. Breeding possible.

##### [Black-tailed dascyllus](/encyclopedia/dascyllus-melanurus)
**Dascyllus melanurus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Black and white damselfish, active and hardy.
Dascyllus melanurus is a marine fish from the Pomacentridae family. It reaches up to 8 cm. Its body is white with vertical black bands and a black tail. It is territorial but relatively peaceful in a community tank. In the wild, it lives in groups. It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Marine tank of at least 100 liters, with live rock for hiding. Salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Omnivore: feed flakes, brine shrimp, mysis. Beware of intraspecific aggression if kept in small group. Introduce several juveniles together.

##### [Aron's blenny](/encyclopedia/ecsenius-aroni)
**Ecsenius aroni** — Blenniidae · fish
Small colorful blenny, very active and curious. Ideal for peaceful reef aquariums.
Ecsenius aroni grows up to 6 cm. Its elongated body is brown-red with light spots and a continuous dorsal fin. It has small tentacles above the eyes. It is a territorial but non-aggressive fish towards other species. It spends its time perching on rocks and grazing algae. It can slightly change color depending on its mood. Its active behavior and facial expressions make it very popular.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 80 liters is recommended. Provide plenty of rockwork hiding places. It feeds on algae, spirulina, and small crustaceans. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish. Good filtration and moderate lighting are sufficient. It may jump, so a lid is advised.

##### [Bicolor blenny](/encyclopedia/ecsenius-bicolor)
**Ecsenius bicolor** — Blenniidae · fish
The bicolor blenny is a small, colorful marine fish, very popular in reef aquariums for its active behavior and ease of care.
Ecsenius bicolor reaches up to 11 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a rounded head and large eyes. The coloration is distinctive: the anterior half of the body is dark brown to black, while the posterior half is bright yellow to orange. The fins are small, with a continuous dorsal fin. It has small comb-like teeth for grazing algae. Sexual dimorphism is subtle; males are slightly larger and more colorful during breeding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 75L, Size 11cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 75 liters is recommended for one specimen, larger for multiple fish. Water parameters should be 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. The aquascape should include plenty of live rock with crevices for hiding. It is omnivorous, accepting algae-based foods (nori, spirulina) and small meaty prey (brine shrimp, mysis). Caution: it may jump, so a lid is necessary. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial towards other blennies. It is compatible with most reef fish and invertebrates.

##### [Midas blenny](/encyclopedia/ecsenius-midas)
**Ecsenius midas** — Blenniidae · fish
Colorful blenny with bright yellow body and bluish head. Very active and popular in aquariums.
Ecsenius midas grows up to 8 cm. Its body is elongated, bright yellow to orange, with a blue-violet head. It has small comb-like teeth and tentacles above the eyes. It is an active fish that spends time perching on rocks and swimming among corals. It feeds mainly on algae and small invertebrates. It is territorial but can coexist with other blennies if space is sufficient. Known for its curiosity and amusing behavior.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
This blenny requires an aquarium of at least 80 liters with plenty of hiding places and rocks. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is herbivorous and should be fed algae-rich foods (nori, spirulina) supplemented with mysis. A volume of 100 liters is preferable for one specimen. It may jump, so a lid is recommended. Compatible with most peaceful reef fish. Avoid very aggressive fish. Good filtration and moderate lighting are sufficient.

##### [Tail-spot blenny](/encyclopedia/ecsenius-stigmatura)
**Ecsenius stigmatura** — Blenniidae · fish
Small blenny with light brown body and a characteristic black spot on the tail.
Ecsenius stigmatura grows up to 5 cm. Its body is elongated, light brown to beige, with a distinct black spot on the caudal peduncle. It has tentacles above the eyes and a downward-facing mouth. It feeds on algae and detritus. It is a shy fish that often stays near rocks. It is territorial towards other blennies but peaceful with other species. Its small size makes it suitable for nano-reefs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
This blenny requires an aquarium of at least 50 liters with live rock and algae. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina. It may also accept artemia. A lid is recommended as it may jump. Sensitive to water quality. Keep nitrates low. Can coexist with peaceful fish. Avoid other blennies of the same genus in a small tank.

##### [Yaeyama blenny](/encyclopedia/ecsenius-yaeyamaensis)
**Ecsenius yaeyamaensis** — Blenniidae · fish
Small blenny endemic to the Yaeyama Islands, with brown body and light spots.
Ecsenius yaeyamaensis grows up to 4 cm. Its body is elongated, dark brown with small light spots on the sides. It has tentacles above the eyes and a long dorsal fin. It lives in shallow coral reef areas, hiding in crevices. It feeds on algae and small invertebrates. It is a shy and territorial fish. Its restricted distribution makes it less common in the aquarium trade.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
This blenny requires an aquarium of at least 40 liters with plenty of hiding places. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina. It may be difficult to acclimate. A lid is necessary. Sensitive to parameter changes. Keep water stable and clean. Can coexist with other peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive food competitors.

##### [Spotted cleaner goby](/encyclopedia/elacatinus-puncticulatus)
**Elacatinus puncticulatus** — Gobiidae · fish
Cleaner goby that removes parasites from larger fish.
This small goby is an active cleaner. It establishes cleaning stations on rocks. Very useful in reef aquariums to reduce parasites. Its blue and yellow coloration is characteristic.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 80L with live rock. Varied diet (brine shrimp, mysis, herbivore food).

##### [Citron goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-citrinus)
**Gobiodon citrinus** — Gobiidae · fish
A small bright yellow goby, symbiotic with Acropora corals, highly valued in reef aquariums for its color and peaceful behavior.
Gobiodon citrinus reaches up to 6 cm. Its body is elongated, laterally compressed, with a uniform bright yellow coloration sometimes marked by fine blue lines on the head. It has large pectoral fins and a rounded caudal fin. It secretes a toxic mucus that protects it from predators. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with males slightly larger during breeding season.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 40-liter tank is recommended, with moderate lighting and good water flow. Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.020-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. It is essential to provide Acropora corals or branch-like structures for resting and security. Diet: small frozen crustaceans (brine shrimp, mysis) and enriched flake food. Compatible with most peaceful fish and reef invertebrates. Caution: do not keep with aggressive fish or predatory crabs.

##### [Clown goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-histrio)
**Gobiodon histrio** — Gobiidae · fish
Small colorful goby living in symbiosis with Acropora corals.
The clown goby is a small peaceful fish that hides among coral branches. Ideal for nano-reefs. Its bright yellow or orange color makes it very visible.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 50L with Acropora corals. Fine food (brine shrimp, rotifers). Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Blue-spotted goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-micropus)
**Gobiodon micropus** — Gobiidae · fish
Small reef goby with characteristic blue spots. It lives in symbiosis with certain Acropora corals.
Gobiodon micropus is a small fish of the Gobiidae family, reaching up to 4 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, brown-yellow with bright blue spots on the head and body. It has a continuous dorsal fin and fused pelvic fins forming a sucker. This goby is often associated with branching corals of the genus Acropora, in which it takes refuge. It is territorial but peaceful towards other species. Its coloration allows it to camouflage among coral branches.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
This goby requires a mature reef aquarium with Acropora corals to feel secure. Temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. A minimum volume of 50 liters is recommended for a pair. It feeds on small planktonic crustaceans, mysis, and artemia. It is sensitive to water quality; nitrates should stay below 20 ppm and phosphates below 0.1 ppm. Good water flow is appreciated but not strong currents. It can be kept in pairs or small groups if the tank is large enough. Avoid aggressive fish that may stress it.

##### [Yellow clown goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-okinawae)
**Gobiodon okinawae** — Gobiidae · fish
Small bright yellow fish, symbiotic with Acropora corals, very popular in reef aquariums.
The yellow clown goby reaches up to 3.5 cm. Its body is entirely bright yellow, without distinctive markings. It has broad pectoral fins and a continuous dorsal fin. It is a peaceful fish that lives in close association with Acropora corals. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with males being slightly larger during breeding season.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 30 liters is sufficient, but a larger volume is recommended for stability. Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.020-1.025. Decorate with live Acropora corals or structures mimicking their branches. This goby is carnivorous: accepts small frozen crustaceans (brine shrimp, mysis) and fine pellets. It is peaceful with most fish but may become territorial towards other yellow gobies. Beware of jumping: cover the aquarium.

##### [Unicolor goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-unicolor)
**Gobiodon unicolor** — Gobiidae · fish
Medium-sized goby with uniform brown-red coloration, often associated with Acropora corals.
Gobiodon unicolor grows up to 5 cm. Its body is stocky, brown-red to brown-green, without distinct patterns. It has a small mouth and prominent eyes. Like other Gobiodon, it lives in symbiosis with branching corals, hiding among branches. It is territorial towards conspecifics but tolerates other fish. Its dorsal fin is single and continuous. It can slightly change color to adapt to its environment.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
This goby requires a reef aquarium with Acropora corals. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Minimum volume 60 liters for a pair. Diet: small crustaceans, mysis, artemia. Sensitive to nitrates and phosphates. Efficient filtration is needed. Can be kept alone or in pairs. Avoid large or aggressive fish. Good oxygenation is important.

##### [Forktail blenny](/encyclopedia/meiacanthus-atrodorsalis)
**Meiacanthus atrodorsalis** — Blenniidae · fish
Slender forktail blenny, very active and colorful. Known for its mild venom harmless to humans.
Meiacanthus atrodorsalis reaches 10 cm. Its body is elongated, bright yellow with a black stripe on the dorsal fin. The tail is deeply forked. It has venom glands in the jaws, but the sting is harmless to the aquarist. It is a pelagic fish that often swims in open water. It is curious and can recognize its owner. It feeds on zooplankton and small invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank of 120 liters is recommended. It needs open swimming space and some rockwork. It accepts frozen foods and flakes. Compatible with peaceful fish, avoid predators. It can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough. Efficient filtration is necessary. It is sensitive to water quality.

##### [Striped blenny](/encyclopedia/meiacanthus-grammistes)
**Meiacanthus grammistes** — Blenniidae · fish
Striped blenny with interesting behavior, venomous but harmless to humans.
Meiacanthus grammistes is a fish from the Blenniidae family. It reaches up to 10 cm. It has an elongated body with horizontal black and white stripes. It has venom glands at the base of its teeth, but its venom is mild and harmless to humans. It is an active and curious fish, often seen perching on rocks. It is omnivorous and accepts a variety of foods. It can be territorial towards conspecifics.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Marine tank of at least 100 liters, with rocks and hiding places. Salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Omnivore: flakes, brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Caution: may nip other fish, but rarely dangerous. Avoid keeping with very small fish.

##### [Kamohara's blenny](/encyclopedia/meiacanthus-kamoharai)
**Meiacanthus kamoharai** — Blenniidae · fish
Small striped blenny, ideal for nano-reefs. Peaceful and easy to keep.
Meiacanthus kamoharai grows up to 5 cm. Its body is elongated with horizontal brown and white stripes. The dorsal fin is low and continuous. It has a small downward-facing mouth. It is a bottom-dwelling fish that often hides in crevices. It is very shy but becomes more visible once acclimated. It feeds on algae and microorganisms. It can be kept in pairs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank of 60 liters is sufficient. Provide plenty of rockwork hiding places. It accepts frozen foods and algae-based flakes. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp. Avoid aggressive territorial fish. Stable water and gentle filtration are recommended. It may jump, so a lid is necessary.

##### [Yellow blenny](/encyclopedia/meiacanthus-luteus)
**Meiacanthus luteus** — Blenniidae · fish
Completely yellow blenny, very lively and easy to observe. Perfect for community aquariums.
Meiacanthus luteus grows up to 8 cm. Its body is uniformly bright yellow, sometimes with a slight orange tint. The dorsal fin is long and low. It has large eyes and a protractile mouth. It is an active fish that often swims in open water. It is curious and may approach the glass. It feeds on zooplankton and small crustaceans. It is known for its hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank of 100 liters is recommended. It needs swimming space and some rockwork. It accepts frozen foods, flakes, and pellets. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate filtration and standard lighting are suitable. It can be kept in small groups.

##### [Blue Damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-caeruleus)
**Pomacentrus caeruleus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Entirely blue damselfish, very common on reefs. Active and hardy, ideal for beginners in marine aquariums.
Pomacentrus caeruleus reaches 8 cm. Its body is uniformly bright blue, sometimes with silvery reflections. Juveniles may have a paler hue. It is a territorial fish that defends its shelter. It feeds on plankton, algae and small crustaceans. In aquariums, it is active and swims throughout the water column. It can become aggressive towards conspecifics if space is insufficient. Its hardiness makes it an excellent choice for community marine tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. A minimum 100-liter tank is suitable. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid very small fish. Provide live rock for hiding places. Can be kept in groups if the tank is large (over 300 L).

##### [Azure damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-coelestis)
**Pomacentrus coelestis** — Pomacentridae · fish
The azure damselfish is a small bright blue marine fish very popular in reef aquariums. It is active and hardy, ideal for beginners.
This fish has an elongated and laterally compressed body, entirely covered in an electric blue color. The fins are also blue, sometimes with silvery reflections. Juveniles are duller and become more vivid as they grow. It reaches up to 7 cm in adulthood. It is a territorial fish and sometimes aggressive towards conspecifics, especially in a small volume. It swims actively throughout the water column and likes to hide in rocks. In the aquarium, it adapts quickly and accepts a wide variety of foods.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 100 liters is recommended for a single specimen. The aquarium should have plenty of hiding places (live rock) and open swimming space. It is omnivorous: feed with flakes, pellets, brine shrimp and mysis. It can be kept in a group in a large tank, but cohabitation with other damselfish may be conflictual. Avoid overly timid fish as it may harass them. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. It is sensitive to nitrate and phosphate spikes.

##### [Moluccan Damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-moluccensis)
**Pomacentrus moluccensis** — Pomacentridae · fish
Bright yellow damselfish with a black spot on the caudal peduncle. Peaceful and colorful species, suitable for reefs.
Pomacentrus moluccensis grows up to 7 cm. Its body is bright yellow with a characteristic black spot on the caudal peduncle. The fins are yellow, sometimes edged with blue. It is a gregarious species that lives in small groups in the wild. It feeds on zooplankton and algae. In aquariums, it is generally peaceful and can coexist with other reef fish. It enjoys areas with branching coral for hiding. Its bright coloration illuminates the tank.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, KH 8-12, NO3<20, PO4<0.1. Minimum 100-liter tank. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, algae. Compatible with reef invertebrates. Avoid very aggressive fish. Provide live rock and corals for hiding. Can be kept in groups of 3-4 in a 200 L tank.

##### [Peacock Damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-pavo)
**Pomacentrus pavo** — Pomacentridae · fish
Damselfish with blue-green body and iridescent reflections, with a black spot on the operculum. Hardy and colorful species.
Pomacentrus pavo reaches 8 cm. Its body is metallic blue-green with iridescent reflections. A black spot is present on the operculum. The fins are often edged with blue. It is a territorial fish but less aggressive than other damselfish. It feeds on plankton, algae and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it is active and swims in open water. It can be kept in pairs or small groups. Its color-changing appearance depending on the viewing angle is very attractive.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, KH 8-12, NO3<20, PO4<0.1. Minimum 120-liter tank. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with reefs and peaceful fish. Provide live rock and open swimming areas. Can become territorial towards similarly shaped fish. Good filtration is required.

##### [Ocellated Damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-vaiuli)
**Pomacentrus vaiuli** — Pomacentridae · fish
Yellow damselfish with a large black ocellated spot on the back. Peaceful and easy to keep species.
Pomacentrus vaiuli grows up to 7 cm. Its body is bright yellow with a large black spot surrounded by a blue ring on the back, just in front of the dorsal fin. The fins are yellow. It is a diurnal species that lives in small groups. It feeds on zooplankton and algae. In aquariums, it is generally peaceful and adapts well. It enjoys hiding places among rocks and corals. Its ocellated spot is a distinctive feature that makes it easily recognizable.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, KH 8-12, NO3<20, PO4<0.1. Minimum 100-liter tank. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, algae. Compatible with reefs and peaceful fish. Provide live rock and corals for hiding. Can be kept in groups of 3-4 in a 200 L tank. Avoid very aggressive fish.

##### [Maroon clownfish](/encyclopedia/premnas-biaculeatus)
**Premnas biaculeatus** — Pomacentridae · fish
The maroon clownfish is a colorful marine fish, recognizable by its white bands and maroon body. It lives in symbiosis with sea anemones.
The body is robust and dark maroon to reddish, with three vertical white bands. The fins are rounded and the mouth is small. Males are smaller and more colorful than females. This fish is highly territorial and aggressive towards conspecifics. It forms monogamous pairs and defends its host anemone. Juveniles can change sex. It is one of the largest clownfish species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 200 liters is recommended. Temperature should be kept between 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Salinity of 1.020-1.025 is ideal. It is best kept with a host anemone such as Heteractis magnifica. Diet should be varied: brine shrimp, mysis, pellets. Avoid keeping with other clownfish or very small fish. It can coexist with robust fish. Water parameters must be stable.

##### [Lawnmower blenny](/encyclopedia/salarias-fasciatus)
**Salarias fasciatus** — Blenniidae · fish
Small herbivorous blenny highly valued in marine aquariums for its efficiency in controlling filamentous algae. It is hardy and easy to keep.
The lawnmower blenny reaches up to 14 cm. Its elongated, laterally compressed body is brownish-green mottled with light and dark spots, with a continuous dorsal fin. It has small comb-like teeth for grazing algae. Males are slightly larger and have a taller dorsal fin than females. It is a territorial fish but generally peaceful towards other species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 75L, Size 14cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 75 L with moderate lighting and plenty of live rock for grazing. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. It feeds mainly on algae but accepts spirulina-based foods and blanched vegetables. Avoid keeping with other herbivorous blennies as it may become aggressive. It can jump, so a lid is recommended.

##### [Fringed blenny](/encyclopedia/salarias-ramosus)
**Salarias ramosus** — Blenniidae · fish
Herbivorous blenny with fringed tentacles on the head.
The fringed blenny is a peaceful fish that grazes on algae. It has characteristic cirri. Ideal for controlling filamentous algae in the reef aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 100L with rocks and algae. Diet based on algae, supplement with spirulina. Avoid aggressive fish.

#### Corals
Source : /encyclopedia/coraux

##### [Echinata coral](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-echinata)
**Acanthastrea echinata** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Acanthastrea echinata is a hardy and colorful LPS coral, popular in reef aquariums for its large fleshy polyps and wide range of colors.
This coral forms massive or encrusting colonies up to 30 cm. Polyps are large, fleshy, with prominent septa. Coloration is highly variable: green, red, orange, purple, often with contrasting patterns. It possesses sweeper tentacles that extend at night. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting and medium flow are suitable. It is photosynthetic but benefits from targeted feeding (brine shrimp, mysis). Beware of sweeper tentacles: space at least 15 cm from other corals. Good water quality (nitrate <10 ppm, phosphate <0.1 ppm) is essential.

##### [Acan coral](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-hillae)
**Acanthastrea hillae** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Massive or encrusting LPS coral, highly colorful, popular in reef aquariums.
Acanthastrea hillae forms massive or encrusting colonies with fleshy polyps. Colors range from green to red, blue and purple. Each polyp has a central mouth surrounded by short tentacles. It is an aggressive coral that can extend mesenterial filaments to attack neighbors. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts meaty foods. Growth is moderate. It is highly prized for its bright colors and hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Feed meaty foods (mysis, brine shrimp) 1-2 times per week. Nitrate levels should be <10 ppm, phosphate <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1200-1350 mg/L. Avoid placing too close to other corals as it can sting. Stable water parameters are essential.

##### [Ishigaki Acan](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-ishigakiensis)
**Acanthastrea ishigakiensis** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Rare LPS coral in the hobby, originating from Japanese waters, with bright colors.
Acanthastrea ishigakiensis forms encrusting or massive colonies of modest size. Polyps are fleshy and often green, orange or pink. It is less aggressive than other Acanthastrea. Growth is slow. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts fine prey. This species is sought after for its rarity and pastel hues.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters identical to other Acanthastrea: 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank 100 liters. Feed fine meaty foods 1-2 times per week. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450, magnesium 1200-1350. Pay attention to parameter stability as this species is more delicate. Avoid sudden changes.

##### [Lord Howe acanthastrea](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-lordhowensis)
**Acanthastrea lordhowensis** — Lobophylliidae · coral
LPS coral with fleshy, colorful polyps, highly prized for its bright hues and dome-shaped growth.
Acanthastrea lordhowensis forms massive or encrusting colonies, with large polyps and well-developed septa. Colors include red, orange, green, and purple. It is moderately aggressive and may extend stinging tentacles at night. Requires clean water and moderate lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Provide enough space between colonies to avoid stings. Feed with meaty foods like mysis or plankton. Moderate flow is ideal. Avoid high nitrates.

##### [Subechinate Acan](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-subechinata)
**Acanthastrea subechinata** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Encrusting LPS coral with distinctive polyps, less common than Acanthastrea hillae.
Acanthastrea subechinata forms encrusting colonies with well-separated polyps. Colors are often bright: green, orange, red. Polyps have a central mouth and short tentacles. This coral is moderately aggressive. It feeds through photosynthesis and prey capture. Growth is slow to moderate. It is valued for its unique texture and colors.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to A. hillae: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank 100 liters. Feed meaty foods 1-2 times per week. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450, magnesium 1200-1350. Avoid contact with other corals. Good water flow around the coral is beneficial.

##### [Trumpet Coral](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-curvata)
**Caulastrea curvata** — Merulinidae · coral
LPS coral forming colonies of elongated tubular polyps. Easy to maintain and propagate.
Caulastrea curvata is characterized by curved tubular polyps, often green or brown, with flared tips. Colonies are small to medium, reaching 15 cm. Polyps are connected by a common coenosarc. It is not very aggressive and tolerates other corals well. It feeds on plankton and suspended particles. Growth is moderate. It is ideal for LPS beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Feeding: plankton, phytoplankton, particles. Compatible with most fish and corals. Easy propagation by fragmentation. Tolerates moderate variations.

##### [Spiny candy cane](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-echinulata)
**Caulastrea echinulata** — Faviidae · coral
LPS coral forming colonies of tubular polyps with starry tips, reminiscent of candy canes.
Caulastrea echinulata appears as small encrusting or massive colonies, with elongated polyps and spiny septa. Colors range from green to brown, often with contrasting centers. It is undemanding and tolerates varied conditions, making it a good choice for reef beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Place in moderate lighting and low to moderate flow. It feeds mainly by photosynthesis but appreciates zooplankton supplements. Watch for filamentous algae that may overgrow it.

##### [Candy cane coral](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-furcata)
**Caulastrea furcata** — Faviidae · coral
Candy cane coral (Caulastrea furcata) is a hardy LPS coral with fleshy polyps, often green or brown with fluorescent centers. Easy to keep, it is suitable for beginner reef aquarists.
Caulastrea furcata forms phaceloid colonies where each polyp is separated by a calcified stalk. Polyps reach up to 2-3 cm in diameter and are fleshy, with well-defined septa. Coloration ranges from green to brown, with centers often fluorescent green or bluish. At night, it extends long stinging tentacles to capture prey. There is no apparent sexual dimorphism. It is a moderate-growing species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80-liter tank is recommended for a small frag. Maintain temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 mg/L, magnesium >1300 mg/L, and KH 8-12 dKH. Lighting should be moderate (PAR 100-200) and flow low to moderate. Feed planktonic foods or micro-particles 1-2 times per week. Beware of nocturnal stinging tentacles: space at least 10 cm from other corals. Easy to frag.

##### [Sinuous Trumpet Coral](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-sinuata)
**Caulastrea sinuata** — Merulinidae · coral
LPS coral with sinuous tubular polyps, forming dense colonies. Easy to care for.
Caulastrea sinuata is distinguished by its wavy, sinuous tubular polyps, often green or brown. Colonies can reach 20 cm. Polyps are longer than those of Caulastrea curvata. It is not very aggressive and grows well in aquariums. It feeds on plankton and small particles. Growth is moderate. It is hardy and suitable for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Feeding: plankton, phytoplankton. Compatible with most fish and corals. Easy propagation by fragmentation. Tolerates slightly variable conditions.

##### [Swollen Trumpet Coral](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-tumida)
**Caulastrea tumida** — Merulinidae · coral
LPS coral with swollen tubular polyps, forming compact colonies. Easy to maintain.
Caulastrea tumida is characterized by short, swollen tubular polyps, giving a puffy appearance. Colonies are dense and reach 15 cm. Color varies from green to brown. It is less aggressive than other LPS. It feeds on plankton and particles. Growth is slow to moderate. It is very hardy and tolerates less stable water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Feeding: plankton, phytoplankton. Compatible with most fish and corals. Easy propagation by fragmentation. Ideal for beginners.

##### [Vortex anemone](/encyclopedia/cryptodendrum-adhaesivum)
**Cryptodendrum adhaesivum** — Thalassianthidae · coral
Medium-sized anemone with short, adhesive tentacles forming a collar. Less common in aquaria but highly decorative.
Cryptodendrum adhaesivum has an oral disc of 15-20 cm, with short, branched, highly adhesive tentacles. Coloration ranges from brown to green, sometimes with white spots. It attaches to rocks or coral rubble. It is solitary and moderately aggressive. It can host certain clownfish such as Amphiprion clarkii. Its sting is stronger than that of other common anemones.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting, low to moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 150 L. Feed small pieces of fish or shrimp 1-2 times per week. Avoid strong currents. Sensitive to nitrates (max 10 ppm). Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. Compatible with clownfish and peaceful fish. Handle with care as tentacles are very sticky.

##### [Coin Mushroom Coral](/encyclopedia/discosoma-nummiforme)
**Discosoma nummiforme** — Discosomatidae · coral
The Coin Mushroom Coral is a flat, circular mushroom coral resembling a coin. It is very hardy and easy to maintain.
Discosoma nummiforme has a perfectly round disc, often with slightly wavy edges. Its color is usually brown, gray, or green, sometimes with spots. The disc can reach 8 cm in diameter. The mouth is central and small. It attaches firmly to rocks. It reproduces by division. In aquariums, it often remains stationary. It tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters similar to Discosoma sanctithomae: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Low to moderate light, low flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1350 ppm. It feeds through photosynthesis and accepts meaty foods. A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is advised. It is peaceful but may release digestive filaments. Avoid strong currents. It is sensitive to high nitrates (>20 ppm).

##### [Saint Thomas Mushroom Coral](/encyclopedia/discosoma-sanctithomae)
**Discosoma sanctithomae** — Discosomatidae · coral
The Saint Thomas Mushroom Coral is a solitary or small-group mushroom coral with variable coloration. It is easy to keep in a reef aquarium.
Discosoma sanctithomae forms a fleshy disc, often ruffled at the edges, reaching up to 10 cm in diameter. Its color ranges from brown to green, sometimes with patterns. The mouth is central, surrounded by short tentacles. It attaches to rocks via a foot. It reproduces by division or budding. In aquariums, it can move slowly. It is very hardy and tolerates variable conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Low to moderate light, low to moderate flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1350 ppm. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts small food pieces (brine shrimp, mysis). A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is sufficient. It is peaceful but can be aggressive toward neighboring corals by releasing digestive filaments. Avoid placing it too close to other corals.

##### [Hammer coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-ancora)
**Euphyllia ancora** — Euphylliidae · coral
Hammer coral is a popular LPS in reef aquariums, recognizable by its hammer- or anchor-shaped polyps. It is photosynthetic but can also capture prey.
Euphyllia ancora forms massive or dome-shaped colonies, with fleshy polyps ending in hammer- or anchor-shaped tentacles (sometimes T-shaped or anchor-like). Color ranges from green to brown, often with fluorescent tips (green, blue, purple). Polyps can reach up to 5 cm in length. The colony can grow to 30 cm in diameter. It possesses stinging sweeper tentacles that extend at night to defend its space. No visible sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter tank is recommended for a small frag, but an adult colony needs 200 liters or more. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow. It is sensitive to parameter swings, especially stable alkalinity (8-12 dKH). It can be fed small prey (brine shrimp, mysis) once or twice a week. Beware of stinging sweeper tentacles: leave at least 15 cm of space from other corals. Avoid fish that nip at polyps (butterflyfish, angelfish).

##### [Grape Coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-cristata)
**Euphyllia cristata** — Euphylliidae · coral
LPS coral with large fleshy polyps resembling grapes. Requires stable water and moderate lighting.
Euphyllia cristata forms massive colonies with swollen, rounded polyps, often green or brown. Polyps can reach 5 cm in diameter. It has short, puffy tentacles. It is an aggressive coral that can extend stinging tentacles at night. It feeds on medium-sized prey like brine shrimp. Growth is slow. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1300-1400 mg/L. Moderate lighting, low to moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Feeding: brine shrimp, mysis, small fish. Compatible with reef fish, but avoid nearby corals. Propagation by fragmentation. Keep water very clean.

##### [Anchor coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-divisa)
**Euphyllia divisa** — Euphylliidae · coral
Euphyllia divisa is a large polyp stony coral, recognizable by its anchor-shaped tentacles. It is popular in reef aquariums for its beauty and relative hardiness.
Euphyllia divisa forms massive or encrusting colonies with fleshy polyps. The tentacles are long, ending in an anchor- or club-shaped tip, often green, brown, or gray with lighter tips. The colony can reach 30 cm in diameter. It is an aggressive coral that extends stinging sweeper tentacles at night to defend its space. No visible sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for a single specimen. Ideal parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <10 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate to high lighting and moderate flow are suitable. It is photosynthetic but benefits from targeted feeding of small prey (brine shrimp, mysis). Beware of stinging tentacles: provide at least 15 cm spacing from other corals.

##### [Torch coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-glabrescens)
**Euphyllia glabrescens** — Euphylliidae · coral
Popular LPS coral in reef aquariums, recognized by its long fleshy tentacles ending in colorful knobs.
Euphyllia glabrescens forms massive or branching colonies up to 30 cm. Polyps are large and fleshy, with long flexible tentacles ending in round knobs that are often fluorescent (green, pink, purple). Base color ranges from brown to green. At night, longer stinging sweeper tentacles extend to capture prey. Sexual dimorphism is absent, but colonies are gonochoric.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Tank at least 100 L, stable reef parameters. Low to moderate lighting, moderate flow. Keep at least 15 cm away from other corals due to stinging sweeper tentacles. Feed small meaty foods (brine shrimp, mysis) 1-2 times per week. Avoid sudden salinity and temperature swings. Susceptible to brown jelly disease if water is too nutrient-rich.

##### [Branching hammer coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-paradivisa)
**Euphyllia paradivisa** — Euphylliidae · coral
LPS coral with fleshy polyps forming hammer-shaped branches. Popular in reef aquariums.
The branching hammer coral is a spectacular LPS coral with elongated polyps ending in a hammer-shaped tip. Colors range from green to brown, sometimes with fluorescent tips. It requires moderate lighting and moderate flow. It can be aggressive towards neighboring corals with its stinging tentacles.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain stable water with temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.0-8.4. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150). Moderate flow. Feed zooplankton 1-2 times per week. Avoid contact with other corals.

##### [Favia favus Coral](/encyclopedia/favia-favus)
**Favia favus** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive LPS coral with honeycomb-like corallites. Common and hardy species.
Favia favus forms massive, hemispherical or encrusting colonies. Corallites are polygonal, tightly packed, 3-6 mm, with well-developed septa. Color is usually brown, green or gray, sometimes with colored centers. It can reach 30 cm. Slow growth. It prefers moderate light and moderate flow. It is peaceful and hardy. It is often used in reef aquariums for its robustness.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400 ppm, magnesium 1300 ppm. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150), moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, appreciates zooplankton. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Compatible with most reef fish. Easy fragmentation. Tolerant of moderate nutrients (NO3 < 15 ppm, PO4 < 0.1 ppm).

##### [Fragile Favia Coral](/encyclopedia/favia-fragum)
**Favia fragum** — Merulinidae · coral
Small LPS coral from the Caribbean, forming encrusting colonies. Easy to keep, ideal for beginners.
Favia fragum is a massive-encrusting coral with small, numerous polyps. Corallites are polygonal, 2-5 mm in diameter. Color varies from brown to olive green, sometimes with lighter centers. It forms flat or domed colonies, reaching 15 cm. Moderate growth. It tolerates low to moderate light and low flow. It is peaceful and hardy. It reproduces by fragmentation and budding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 380 ppm, magnesium 1250 ppm. Low to moderate lighting (PAR 50-100), low flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume 50 liters. Compatible with all reef fish. Easy fragmentation. Very tolerant of nutrients (NO3 up to 20 ppm, PO4 up to 0.2 ppm).

##### [Matthai's Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-matthaii)
**Favia matthaii** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive or encrusting coral, often brown or green, common on reefs.
Favia matthaii forms massive or encrusting colonies, sometimes dome-shaped. Polyps are large and fleshy with short tentacles. Color ranges from brown to green, sometimes with purple hues. It is often confused with Favia pallida but differs by finer septa. It is a hardy species tolerating variable conditions. Growth is slow to moderate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis (zooxanthellae), plankton, microalgae, liquid food. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 2/5.

##### [Pale Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-pallida)
**Favia pallida** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive pale coral, often beige or cream, very common on reefs.
Favia pallida forms massive, sometimes encrusting colonies of medium size. Polyps are small and tightly packed with short tentacles. Color is usually beige, cream or light brown, sometimes with greenish hues. Septa are well developed and regular. It is a very hardy species, suitable for beginner aquariums. Growth is slow but steady.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 12cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis, plankton, microalgae, liquid food. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Compatibility: peaceful, tolerates other corals. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 1/5.

##### [Round Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-rotundata)
**Favia rotundata** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive coral with rounded shape, often brown or green, common in shallow reefs.
Favia rotundata is characterized by massive, rounded colonies, sometimes dome-shaped. Polyps are medium-sized with short, thick tentacles. Color ranges from brown to olive green, sometimes with lighter patches. Septa are thick and well spaced. It is a robust species that tolerates slightly turbid conditions. Growth is slow, forming solid structures.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 18cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis, plankton, microalgae. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Compatibility: peaceful, can be kept with other LPS. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 2/5.

##### [Superb Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-speciosa)
**Favia speciosa** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive coral with bright colors, often green or purple, highly prized in aquaria.
Favia speciosa forms massive or encrusting colonies, sometimes irregular domes. Polyps are large and fleshy with long, colorful tentacles. Color is highly variable: bright green, purple, brown, sometimes with contrasting centers. Septa are fine and numerous. It is a spectacular species but sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Growth is moderate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate to high light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis, plankton, microalgae, liquid food. Minimum tank volume 80 L. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 3/5.

##### [Starry Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-stelligera)
**Favia stelligera** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive coral with small star-shaped polyps, often brown or gray, very hardy.
Favia stelligera forms massive, often encrusting or dome-shaped colonies. Polyps are small and very numerous, giving a starry appearance. Color is usually brown, gray or beige, sometimes with greenish hues. Septa are well marked and radiating. It is an extremely hardy species, ideal for beginners. Growth is slow but continuous.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis, plankton, microalgae. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Compatibility: very peaceful, tolerates a wide range of conditions. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 1/5.

##### [Hidden Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-abdita)
**Favites abdita** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites abdita is a massive LPS coral forming hemispherical colonies. It is valued for its hardiness and variable coloration.
This coral forms cerioid to subplocoid colonies with polygonal corallites 5–10 mm in diameter. Septa are regular and walls are thick. Coloration ranges from brown to green, sometimes with purple or red hues. Polyps are retractile and extend at night to capture prey. It is often confused with other Favites species. Growth is slow to moderate. It can reach 30 cm in diameter in aquaria.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow are recommended. Nitrates should stay below 10 ppm and phosphates below 0.1 ppm. Minimum calcium 400 ppm and magnesium 1200 ppm are required. It can be fed phytoplankton and zooplankton 1-2 times per week. A minimum tank volume of 100 liters is advised. Avoid overly aggressive fish or invertebrates that may damage the polyps.

##### [Acute-neck Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-acuticollis)
**Favites acuticollis** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites acuticollis is distinguished by its sharp-walled corallites and bright coloration. It is a hardy LPS coral for experienced aquarists.
Colonies are massive, often encrusting, with polygonal corallites 6–12 mm. Walls are particularly sharp and septa are well developed. Color ranges from emerald green to orange-brown, sometimes with contrasting centers. Polyps are small and retractile. This species grows slowly and forms dense mounds. It is sensitive to sudden parameter changes. In aquaria, it can reach 20 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to medium lighting (PAR 100-150) and moderate flow. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium >400 ppm, magnesium >1200 ppm. Feed zooplankton and phytoplankton twice a week. Minimum tank volume 120 liters. Avoid polyp-eating fish. Good flow around the colony is important. Fragmentation possible but delicate.

##### [Best's Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-bestae)
**Favites bestae** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites bestae is a massive LPS coral with bright colors, often yellow or green. It is sought after for its regular growth and ease of care.
Colonies are cerioid, forming rounded domes. Corallites are 4–8 mm, with thick walls and well-spaced septa. Dominant color is bright yellow, sometimes shaded with green or brown. Polyps are large and extend generously at night. This species tolerates moderate to high light well. Growth is moderate and regular. It can form colonies of 25 cm in aquaria.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high lighting (PAR 150-250) and moderate flow. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1350 ppm. Feed phytoplankton and small zooplankton 1-2 times per week. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Compatible with most reef fish. Avoid aggressive invertebrates. Easy to frag.

##### [Chinese Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-chinensis)
**Favites chinensis** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites chinensis is a common LPS coral with massive colonies and brown to green coloration. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners.
Colonies are cerioid, often encrusting or dome-shaped. Corallites are polygonal, 5–10 mm, with thick walls and irregular septa. Color is generally brown, sometimes green or gray, with lighter centers. Polyps are small and retractile. This species grows slowly but steadily. It tolerates a wide range of conditions. In aquaria, it can reach 30 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Standard parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow. Nitrates <15 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400 ppm, magnesium 1200 ppm. Feed phytoplankton once a week. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Very tolerant, but avoid nutrient excess. Compatible with most fish. Easy to frag.

##### [Flattened Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-complanata)
**Favites complanata** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites complanata forms flattened plate-like colonies, hence its name. It is a hardy LPS coral easy to maintain.
Colonies are massive, often plate-like or flattened dome. Corallites are polygonal, 4–9 mm, with thin walls and regular septa. Color ranges from light brown to olive green, sometimes with pink hues. Polyps are small and extend at night. This species grows slowly but forms spreading structures. It is often used as a base for other corals. In aquaria, it can reach 20 cm across.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate to low flow. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400 ppm, magnesium 1200 ppm. Feed phytoplankton and zooplankton 1-2 times per week. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Avoid strong currents that may damage polyps. Compatible with peaceful fish. Fragmentation possible.

##### [Wavy favites coral](/encyclopedia/favites-flexuosa)
**Favites flexuosa** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive hard coral with meandering polyp walls.
Favites flexuosa forms massive hemispherical colonies. Corallites are polygonal with thick walls. Polyps are small and retractile. Color varies from brown to green, sometimes with lighter centers. It is a robust LPS coral. It feeds on zooplankton at night. Requires moderate lighting and flow. Can reach large size.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Reef aquarium at least 100 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting. Moderate flow. Diet: zooplankton, brine shrimp, mysis, liquid coral food. Compatible with most fish and corals. Avoid aggressive corals. Moderate care. Slow growth.

##### [Favites coral](/encyclopedia/favites-halicora)
**Favites halicora** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites halicora is a massive LPS coral appreciated for its varied colors and ease of care.
This coral forms encrusting or massive colonies with fleshy polyps. Colors range from green to brown, sometimes with purple or red hues. It has well-developed septa and a brain-like surface. Nocturnally active, it extends its tentacles to capture plankton. In aquariums, it tolerates parameter variations well. Its growth is moderate and it can be stressed by overly intense light.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting is sufficient, with low to moderate flow. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) levels must be stable. Nitrates < 10 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. It accepts phytoplankton and zooplankton feeding. A minimum tank volume of 100 liters is recommended. Compatible with most peaceful fish and other LPS corals.

##### [Beaded Anemone](/encyclopedia/heteractis-aurora)
**Heteractis aurora** — Stichodactylidae · coral
Medium-sized anemone with beaded tentacles. Less stinging than other anemones. Hosts certain clownfish species.
Heteractis aurora is distinguished by its short, thick tentacles ending in a small bulb (beaded appearance). Color is usually brown, gray or greenish with lighter tips. It can reach 30 cm in diameter. It is less aggressive than Stichodactyla haddoni. It lives in symbiosis with clownfish such as Amphiprion percula. It attaches to rocks or sand. In aquaria, it is considered easier than other carpet anemones.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 150-250). Low to moderate flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Carnivorous diet: small fish, shrimp, fish pieces. Can be fed 1-2 times per week. Requires a tank of at least 80 L. Avoid very small fish. Compatible with clownfish. May move, so provide a safe area.

##### [Delicate anemone](/encyclopedia/heteractis-malu)
**Heteractis malu** — Stichodactylidae · coral
Medium-sized anemone with long, thin tentacles, often pale in color. Known to be delicate in aquaria.
Heteractis malu has an oral disc of 20-30 cm, with long, thin, often translucent tentacles in white, pink or beige. It buries its base in the sand, leaving only tentacles exposed. It is solitary and less aggressive than other anemones. It readily hosts clownfish such as Amphiprion ocellaris. Its sting is moderate. It is sensitive to parameter changes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 200 L. Feed 1-2 times per week with small pieces of fish or shrimp. Very sensitive to nitrates (max 10 ppm) and phosphates. Perfectly stable water is essential. Avoid strong currents. Compatible with clownfish and peaceful fish. Do not move once settled.

##### [Corymbose brain coral](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-corymbosa)
**Lobophyllia corymbosa** — Lobophylliidae · coral
LPS coral forming massive dome-shaped colonies, with deep valleys and bright colors.
Lobophyllia corymbosa is characterized by hemispherical or encrusting colonies, with sinuous valleys and thick septa. Its polyps are fleshy and can be various colors: green, red, brown, purple. It is moderately aggressive and extends tentacles at night. Requires moderate lighting and medium flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Leave space between colonies to avoid conflicts. Feed with meaty foods or plankton. Maintain water rich in calcium and alkalinity. Good water movement is important.

##### [Ribbed Lobophyllia](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-costata)
**Lobophyllia costata** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Massive LPS coral with distinctive ribbed lobes, less common than Lobophyllia robusta.
Lobophyllia costata forms massive colonies with lobes marked by longitudinal ribs. Polyps are fleshy and often brown, green or red. It is aggressive and can extend filaments. Growth is moderate. It feeds through photosynthesis and prey capture. It is valued for its unique ribbed texture and hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to L. robusta: 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank 200 liters. Feed meaty foods 2-3 times per week. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450, magnesium 1200-1350. Leave space to avoid conflicts. Tolerates stable conditions well.

##### [Hata's Lobed Coral](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-hataii)
**Lobophyllia hataii** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Massive LPS coral with rounded lobes, often brightly colored. A robust species suitable for reef aquariums.
Lobophyllia hataii forms massive, hemispherical colonies. Its lobes are thick and rounded, with fleshy polyps that extend at night. Coloration ranges from green to brown, sometimes with red or purple hues. It is a slow-growing but hardy coral. It can reach 30 cm in diameter in an aquarium. It prefers moderate lighting and moderate flow. It is generally peaceful but may extend its polyps to shade neighbors.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium maintained at 400 ppm, magnesium at 1300 ppm. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic but appreciates zooplankton (Artemia, rotifers) 1-2 times per week. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Compatible with most reef fish, avoid coral-eating fish. Fragmentation possible but delicate. Beware of sudden parameter swings.

##### [Lobed brain coral](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-hemprichii)
**Lobophyllia hemprichii** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Lobophyllia hemprichii is a massive LPS coral, recognizable by its large fleshy polyps and varied colors. It is popular in reef aquariums.
Colonies of Lobophyllia hemprichii are massive, hemispherical or encrusting, reaching up to 30 cm in diameter. Polyps are large, fleshy, with short, swollen tentacles, often brightly colored (green, brown, red, purple). The corallite surface has well-visible septa. At night, sweeper tentacles may extend to capture prey. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Lighting should be moderate to intense, with moderate water flow to prevent debris accumulation on polyps. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 mg/L, magnesium >1250 mg/L, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. It tolerates nitrates up to 10 mg/L and phosphates up to 0.1 mg/L. It is semi-aggressive: its sweeper tentacles can damage neighboring corals, so spacing of at least 15 cm is advised. It feeds on zooplankton and small particles but derives most energy from its zooxanthellae.

##### [Robust Lobophyllia](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-robusta)
**Lobophyllia robusta** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Large massive LPS coral forming rounded lobes, very hardy and easy to keep.
Lobophyllia robusta forms massive dome-shaped colonies with thick fleshy lobes. Polyps are large and can be brown, green, red or purple. It is an aggressive coral that can extend mesenterial filaments. It feeds through photosynthesis and prey capture. Growth is moderate to fast. It is very popular for its hardiness and imposing appearance.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high lighting (PAR 150-250), moderate to strong flow. Minimum tank 200 liters due to adult size. Feed meaty foods 2-3 times per week. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450, magnesium 1200-1350. Leave space around as it can damage neighboring corals. Tolerates stable conditions well.

##### [Long-tentacle anemone](/encyclopedia/macrodactyla-doreensis)
**Macrodactyla doreensis** — Actiniidae · coral
Large anemone with long, slender tentacles, often hosting clownfish. Requires a mature and stable aquarium.
Macrodactyla doreensis has an oral disc up to 30 cm in diameter, with long, tapering tentacles often brown, green or purple. It buries its base in the sand, leaving only tentacles exposed. It is a solitary species that can be aggressive toward other anemones. It readily hosts clownfish of the genus Amphiprion. Its sting is moderately irritating to humans. In aquaria, it requires very clean water and moderate to high lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Maintain temperature between 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high lighting (LED or T5) is required. Water flow should be moderate. A minimum tank volume of 200 L is recommended. Feed 1-2 times per week with pieces of fish, shrimp or mysis. Avoid large parameter swings. It is sensitive to high nitrates (max 10 ppm). Once settled, do not move it. Compatible with clownfish and peaceful fish.

##### [Slender carnation coral](/encyclopedia/scleronephthya-gracillima)
**Scleronephthya gracillima** — Nephtheidae · coral
The slender carnation coral is a tree-like soft coral with white or pink polyps. It is delicate and requires very clean water.
Scleronephthya gracillima forms fine, branched tree-like colonies. Its polyps are non-retractile and form a dense fuzz. It lacks zooxanthellae and relies entirely on plankton capture. Its color ranges from white to pale pink. It is very sensitive to parameter fluctuations and high nitrates. Its growth is slow. It is often confused with Nephthea but is distinguished by its finer structure.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
This coral is for experienced aquarists only. It requires a mature aquarium with very stable, oligotrophic water. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.03 ppm. Moderate to strong flow is needed to bring food. It must be fed daily with phytoplankton and small zooplankton. Low lighting is sufficient as it is non-photosynthetic. Avoid competition with aggressive corals. Propagation by cuttings is possible but delicate.

##### [Red carnation coral](/encyclopedia/scleronephthya-sp)
**Scleronephthya sp.** — Nephtheidae · coral
The red carnation coral is a tree-like soft coral with bright red coloration. It is highly sought after but difficult to keep.
Scleronephthya sp. is characterized by its intense red color, due to carotenoid pigments. Its polyps are non-retractile and form a velvety texture. Like S. gracillima, it is azooxanthellate and must be fed. It prefers low light and moderate flow. Its growth is slow and it is sensitive to bacterial infections. It can reach 30 cm in height. It is often confused with Dendronephthya but is distinguished by its firmer consistency.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 250L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Expert maintenance only. Mature aquarium, very clean water (nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.02 ppm). Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Low lighting, moderate to strong flow. Feed several times a day with phytoplankton, rotifers, nauplii. Direct flow onto the polyps is beneficial. Avoid corals that release toxins. Propagation is difficult; try careful cuttings. Monitor for signs of necrosis. A good skimmer and control of organic matter are essential.

##### [Haddon's Carpet Anemone](/encyclopedia/stichodactyla-haddoni)
**Stichodactyla haddoni** — Stichodactylidae · coral
Large carpet anemone with a wide disc and short tentacles. Hosts clownfish. Requires a stable, well-lit aquarium.
Stichodactyla haddoni has a large oral disc (up to 50 cm) covered with short, sticky tentacles. Color ranges from green to brown, sometimes blue or purple. It is highly stinging and can sting fish or humans. It lives in symbiosis with clownfish (Amphiprioninae). It attaches to hard substrate or sand. It can move slowly. In aquaria, it requires intense lighting and good water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (PAR 200-300). Low to moderate flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Carnivorous diet: small fish, shrimp, meaty pieces. Avoid very small fish that could be eaten. Requires a tank of at least 100 L. Beware of pump intakes. Can be challenging for beginners.

##### [Mertens' carpet anemone](/encyclopedia/stichodactyla-mertensii)
**Stichodactyla mertensii** — Stichodactylidae · coral
Very large carpet anemone, up to 50 cm, with a disc covered in short tentacles. Highly sought after for large aquariums.
Stichodactyla mertensii has a large, flat oral disc densely covered with short, rounded tentacles, giving it a carpet-like appearance. Color ranges from brown to green, sometimes with purple hues. It lives on reef flats, often exposed to strong currents. It is highly aggressive toward other cnidarians. It hosts many clownfish species, including Amphiprion ocellaris and A. percula. Its sting is powerful.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 300L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. High lighting (powerful LED or metal halide) and moderate to strong flow. Minimum tank volume 300 L, ideally 500 L. Feed twice a week with pieces of fish, shrimp or squid. Requires very stable water and strong filtration. Nitrates should stay below 10 ppm. Avoid placing near other corals. Compatible with clownfish and robust fish.

##### [Agaricia brain coral](/encyclopedia/symphyllia-agaricia)
**Symphyllia agaricia** — Mussidae · coral
LPS coral forming massive colonies with sinuous valleys. Valued for its brain-like texture.
Agaricia brain coral is a massive LPS coral with fleshy polyps arranged in sinuous valleys. Color ranges from beige to olive green, sometimes with purple hues. It is relatively hardy and tolerant, but requires stable water and moderate lighting. Can be fed zooplankton.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.0-8.4. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150). Moderate to low flow. Feed zooplankton once a week. Avoid direct contact with other corals.

##### [Meat coral](/encyclopedia/symphyllia-radians)
**Symphyllia radians** — Mussidae · coral
A massive LPS coral forming large undulating colonies with vivid colors. It is popular in the aquarium trade for its hardiness and fast growth.
Symphyllia radians forms massive, dome-shaped or meandering colonies with fleshy polyps and prominent septa. Colors range from green, brown, red to purple, often with contrasting mouths. Polyps are retractable and can extend long sweeper tentacles at night. Colonies can exceed 1 meter in the wild but remain smaller in aquaria. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100 L tank is recommended. Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting, moderate water flow. Omnivorous, feeds on zooplankton and microorganisms but relies mainly on zooxanthellae. Compatible with most fish and invertebrates, but watch for sweeper tentacles that can damage neighboring corals. Avoid placing too close to other corals.

##### [Straight Brain Coral](/encyclopedia/symphyllia-recta)
**Symphyllia recta** — Lobophylliidae · coral
LPS coral forming characteristic straight valleys. Bright coloration, easy to maintain.
Symphyllia recta is distinguished by its elongated, straight valleys, unlike the meanders of other brain corals. Polyps are fleshy and retractile, often green, brown or bluish. Colonies are massive and can reach 40 cm. It is a moderate-growing coral. It prefers low to moderate light and moderate flow. It is peaceful but can sting neighboring corals with its nematocysts. It reproduces by natural fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400 ppm, magnesium 1300 ppm. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150), moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, will accept fine zooplankton. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Compatible with reef fish, avoid butterflyfish. Easy fragmentation. Monitor nitrogen parameters (NO3 < 10 ppm, PO4 < 0.1 ppm).

##### [Wilson's Brain Coral](/encyclopedia/symphyllia-wilsoni)
**Symphyllia wilsoni** — Lobophylliidae · coral
LPS coral with sinuous meanders, often colored green or purple. Hardy species for experienced aquarists.
Symphyllia wilsoni forms massive colonies with sinuous, deep valleys. Polyps are large and fleshy, color variable: green, purple, brown or blue. It can reach 50 cm in diameter. Growth is slow. It requires moderate light and moderate to low flow. It is peaceful but can extend stinging polyps at night. It is sensitive to salinity and temperature fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Calcium 420 ppm, magnesium 1350 ppm. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150), low to moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, supplement with zooplankton once a week. Minimum tank volume 150 liters. Compatible with calm reef fish. Fragmentation delicate. Avoid strong direct light. Keep NO3 < 5 ppm, PO4 < 0.05 ppm.

##### [Open brain coral](/encyclopedia/trachyphyllia-geoffroyi)
**Trachyphyllia geoffroyi** — Trachyphylliidae · coral
The open brain coral is an LPS coral with large fleshy polyps, recognizable by its undulating shape and vivid colors. It is popular in reef aquariums for its relative hardiness.
Trachyphyllia geoffroyi forms massive, rounded or elongated colonies up to 30 cm in diameter. The polyps are large and fleshy, with short tentacles and visible mouths. Coloration ranges from green, brown, red, orange to purple, often with contrasting patterns. It is generally solitary but can coexist with other corals at a distance. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended, with moderate to intense lighting and low to moderate flow. Stable parameters are essential: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 ppm, magnesium >1200 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH. It tolerates nitrates up to 20 ppm and phosphates up to 0.1 ppm. It feeds on zooplankton and can be target-fed meaty foods. Beware of stinging tentacles at night; space it at least 15 cm from other corals.

##### [Radiated brain coral](/encyclopedia/trachyphyllia-radiata)
**Trachyphyllia radiata** — Trachyphylliidae · coral
Solitary LPS coral with a brain-like shape, sinuous valleys and bright colors, often kept on the substrate.
Trachyphyllia radiata is a solitary LPS coral, free-living or attached, with a wrinkled surface resembling a brain. Its polyps are retractile, revealing radial lines. It is photosynthetic but can also capture prey. Prefers moderate lighting and low flow. Growth is slow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Place on a sand bed or flat rock. Avoid moving it often. Feed with plankton or micro-particles. Maintain stable calcium and alkalinity levels.

##### [Dead man's fingers](/encyclopedia/alcyonium-digitatum)
**Alcyonium digitatum** — Alcyoniidae · coral
Dead man's fingers is a soft coral shaped like fingers, common on European coasts. It is suitable for temperate aquariums.
Alcyonium digitatum forms fleshy finger-like colonies, white, gray or yellowish. Its polyps are retractile and form tufts on the surface. It lacks zooxanthellae and feeds on plankton. It can survive in cold waters (10-20°C). It is very hardy and can colonize hard substrates. Its growth is slow. It produces chemical substances that can inhibit other organisms. It is often used as a water quality indicator.
Parameters: Temperature 10-24°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
This coral requires a temperate (18-24°C) or cold aquarium. Low to moderate lighting is sufficient. Moderate flow to bring food. pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Nitrates <20 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Feed with phytoplankton and zooplankton. It tolerates moderate variations. Avoid high temperatures (>25°C). It can be kept with temperate fish. Propagation by fragmentation. Caution: it may release toxins when stressed, use activated carbon.

##### [Corky sea finger](/encyclopedia/briareum-asbestinum)
**Briareum asbestinum** — Briareidae · coral
The corky sea finger is an encrusting gorgonian forming finger-like lobes. It is valued in aquariums for its hardiness and beige to brown coloration.
Briareum asbestinum is a soft coral of the family Briareidae. It appears as thick finger-like lobes, often encrusting on rocks. Its surface is rough and dotted with small retractile polyps. It can reach 30 cm in diameter. This coral is photosynthetic via zooxanthellae, but also captures plankton. It produces chemical defense compounds that can inhibit the growth of nearby corals. Its growth is slow to moderate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Keep this coral in a mature marine aquarium with moderate to intense lighting. Moderate water flow is recommended to prevent debris accumulation. Ideal temperature is 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) levels must be stable. It tolerates slightly nutrient-rich water but prefers nitrates <10 ppm and phosphates <0.1 ppm. Supplemental feeding with phytoplankton or zooplankton is beneficial. Avoid placing it too close to other aggressive soft corals. It propagates easily by fragmentation.

##### [Green star polyp](/encyclopedia/briareum-sp)
**Briareum sp.** — Briareidae · coral
The green star polyp is a bright green encrusting coral, often used as a mat in aquariums. It is very hardy and easy to maintain.
Briareum sp. is an encrusting soft coral forming a continuous mat on rocks. Its polyps are green, very numerous, and open during the day. It grows quickly under good conditions. It is photosynthetic but appreciates phytoplankton feeding. It can become invasive if not controlled. Its green color is due to specific pigments and zooxanthellae. It is often confused with other Briareum but is distinguished by its bright hue.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
This coral is very tolerant and suitable for beginners. Moderate to intense lighting is sufficient, with moderate flow. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It tolerates slightly elevated nutrient levels but prefers nitrates <20 ppm. Calcium and magnesium should be kept within marine norms. It can be fed liquid phytoplankton. Beware of its rapid growth: it can overgrow other corals. Trim regularly to contain it. It propagates by fragmentation or by detaching fragments.

##### [Imbricate Capnella](/encyclopedia/capnella-imbricata)
**Capnella imbricata** — Nephtheidae · coral
Capnella imbricata is a tree-like soft coral with overlapping branches. It is often called 'Kenya tree coral' and is very popular in aquariums.
This coral forms a tree-like structure with overlapping branches, giving a bushy appearance. The polyps are small and retractable. Its color is usually brown or beige. It can reach 30 cm in height. Its growth is moderate to fast. It is very hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. It can be easily propagated by cuttings. It is ideal for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate. Flow moderate. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 60 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, can be kept with other soft corals. Difficulty: easy (2/5). Adult size: 30 cm. Lifespan: 5-10 years. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Brown Capnella](/encyclopedia/capnella-sp)
**Capnella sp.** — Nephtheidae · coral
The Brown Capnella is a tree-like soft coral with brown coloration. It is very hardy and easy to keep, ideal for beginners.
This coral forms fleshy tree-like branches in brown to beige color. The polyps are retractable. Its growth is moderate to fast. It can reach 25 cm in height. It tolerates a wide range of parameters. It is peaceful and can be kept with other soft corals. It propagates easily by cuttings. It is very popular in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate. Flow moderate. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 60 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Difficulty: easy (2/5). Adult size: 25 cm. Lifespan: 5-8 years. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Thick finger leather](/encyclopedia/cladiella-pachyclados)
**Cladiella pachyclados** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A fast-growing soft coral with thick finger-like lobes.
Cladiella pachyclados is a soft coral of the family Alcyoniidae. It forms colonies of thick finger-like lobes, beige to brown. It is very hardy and spreads quickly, covering rocks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate lighting, low to moderate flow. Tolerates higher nutrient levels. Beware of its fast growth that can overgrow the tank.

##### [Finger leather coral](/encyclopedia/cladiella-sp)
**Cladiella sp.** — Alcyoniidae · coral
Finger-shaped soft coral, easy to keep in a reef aquarium.
Cladiella sp. forms finger-like colonies up to 20 cm in height. The polyps are retractile and appear as small bumps on the branches. Coloration ranges from light brown to beige, sometimes with greenish hues. Growth occurs in dense clumps. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Tank size at least 100 L with moderate lighting and moderate water flow. Parameters should be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It feeds mainly on zooxanthellae but appreciates supplemental phytoplankton. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid aggressive corals. Special care is needed as it may release toxins when stressed.

##### [Blue clove polyp](/encyclopedia/clavularia-sp)
**Clavularia sp.** — Clavulariidae · coral
Soft coral forming mats of blue or purple polyps.
Blue clove polyp is a colonial soft coral. Polyps are small, bell-shaped, with eight feathery tentacles. They are connected by a creeping stolon. Color ranges from blue to purple. It grows quickly and can cover rocks. It is photosynthetic (zooxanthellae). Can be invasive in the aquarium. Reproduces by fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Reef aquarium at least 50 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting. Moderate flow. Diet: dissolved nutrients, phytoplankton, but mainly photosynthetic. Compatible with most fish and corals. Beware of rapid growth that can smother other corals. Easy maintenance.

##### [Green Clove Polyp](/encyclopedia/clavularia-viridis)
**Clavularia viridis** — Clavulariidae · coral
The Green Clove Polyp is a soft encrusting coral that forms mats of green polyps. It is very popular in reef aquariums for its fast growth and ease of care.
Clavularia viridis has bright green polyps with eight feathery tentacles, typical of octocorals. The polyps emerge from an encrusting stolon that spreads over the substrate. Each polyp is about 1–2 cm in diameter. The green color comes from symbiotic zooxanthellae. In aquariums, it can form large dense colonies. It is often confused with other Clavulariidae like Pachyclavularia. Its growth is rapid under good conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Maintain temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting is sufficient, but it tolerates stronger light. Moderate water flow is recommended to prevent detritus buildup. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1200-1350 ppm) levels should be stable. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but appreciates supplemental phytoplankton. A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is advised. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and invertebrates.

##### [Green Klyxum](/encyclopedia/klyxum-sp)
**Klyxum sp.** — Alcyoniidae · coral
Green encrusting soft coral, forming mats on rocks. Easy to keep in reef aquariums.
Klyxum sp. is an encrusting soft coral that forms dense, fleshy colonies. Its characteristic green color comes from symbiotic zooxanthellae. It can reach 20 cm in an aquarium. It is very hardy and tolerates variable water conditions. It reproduces easily by fragmentation. It can be aggressive towards neighboring corals by releasing toxins.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Feeding: phytoplankton, zooplankton, organic particles. Compatible with most reef fish. Avoid sensitive hard corals due to toxins. Easy propagation by fragmentation.

##### [Arborescent Nephthea](/encyclopedia/nephthea-capnelliformis)
**Nephthea capnelliformis** — Nephtheidae · coral
Nephthea capnelliformis is a tree-like soft coral with thick branches. It is appreciated for its elegant shape and ease of maintenance.
This coral forms a tree-like structure with thick, fleshy branches. The polyps are retractable and appear as small flowers. Its color ranges from beige to light brown. It can reach 30 cm in height. It is moderately fast growing. It is sensitive to sudden parameter changes. It lacks a calcareous skeleton. It can be kept in a reef aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate. Flow moderate to strong. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 100 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Difficulty: moderate (3/5). Adult size: 30 cm. Lifespan: 5-8 years. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Yellow Nephthea](/encyclopedia/nephthea-sp)
**Nephthea sp.** — Nephtheidae · coral
The Yellow Nephthea is a tree-like soft coral with bright yellow coloration. It adds a splash of color to the reef aquarium.
This coral forms fleshy tree-like branches in yellow to orange color. The polyps are small and retractable. Its growth is moderate. It can reach 25 cm in height. It is sensitive to high nitrates. It prefers moderate lighting. It is generally peaceful. It can be easily propagated by cuttings.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate. Flow moderate. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 80 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Difficulty: moderate (3/5). Adult size: 25 cm. Lifespan: 5-8 years. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Green Star Polyp](/encyclopedia/pachyclavularia-sp)
**Pachyclavularia sp.** — Clavulariidae · coral
Pachyclavularia is an encrusting soft coral forming a bright green mat of polyps. Easy to keep, it is ideal for marine aquarium beginners.
This coral forms a basal encrustation from which numerous green polyps emerge. The polyps are retractable and open in light. It can quickly cover rocks and decorations. Its growth is moderate to fast depending on conditions. It is very hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. In aquariums, it can become invasive if not controlled. It lacks a calcareous skeleton.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate to high. Flow moderate. Feeding: primarily photosynthetic, but can benefit from direct feeding with phytoplankton or zooplankton. Minimum tank volume: 40 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, can be kept with other soft corals and reef fish. Difficulty: easy (2/5). Adult size: encrusting up to 30 cm diameter. Lifespan: 5-10 years. Propagation by fragmentation.

##### [Purple Star Polyp](/encyclopedia/pachyclavularia-violacea)
**Pachyclavularia violacea** — Clavulariidae · coral
The Purple Star Polyp is a soft encrusting coral with star-shaped purple polyps. It quickly forms large mats on rocks.
Pachyclavularia violacea produces purple polyps with eight feathery tentacles arranged in a star shape. The encrusting stolon is thick and dark purple. Polyps are about 1 cm in diameter. They retract quickly when stressed. The purple color is intense under blue light. It can cover large areas. It is often used as a background coral in reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high light, moderate to high flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1350 ppm. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but appreciates phytoplankton. A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is recommended. It can become invasive and overgrow other corals. Trim regularly to control growth. Compatible with peaceful fish.

##### [Blue palythoa](/encyclopedia/palythoa-caesia)
**Palythoa caesia** — Sphenopidae · coral
Soft coral forming mats of blue or purple polyps. Contains a potent toxin.
Palythoa caesia is an encrusting soft coral. Its polyps are often blue or purple. It produces palytoxin, a dangerous toxin for humans. Handle with care. It is very hardy and can overgrow the tank.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Moderate lighting, low to moderate flow. Avoid touching with bare hands. Beware of palytoxin.

##### [Florida ricordea](/encyclopedia/ricordea-florida)
**Ricordea florida** — Ricordeidae · coral
The Florida ricordea is a small solitary or colony-forming soft coral, popular in reef aquariums for its bright colors and ease of care.
Ricordea florida is a soft coral of the family Ricordeidae, reaching up to 5 cm in diameter per polyp. Its oral disc is covered with short, bulbous tentacles often arranged in concentric rows. Coloration is highly variable: green, blue, orange, pink, or multicolored with contrasting patterns. It occasionally forms small colonies through budding. No obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 20 liters is sufficient for a single polyp, but 40 liters is recommended for a small group. Temperature should be kept between 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, and salinity 1.023–1.025. Moderate lighting and low to moderate flow are ideal. Ricordea florida is photosynthetic but will accept fine foods such as phytoplankton or micro-particles. It is compatible with most reef fish and invertebrates, but sensitive to high nitrate and phosphate levels.

##### [Ricordea mushroom](/encyclopedia/ricordea-sp)
**Ricordea sp.** — Ricordeidae · coral
A brightly colored disc-shaped soft coral, highly popular in reef aquariums.
Ricordea is a soft coral of the family Ricordeidae. It forms colonies of fleshy disc-shaped polyps, often with fluorescent colors. Native to the Caribbean, it attaches to rocks. It is a hardy and easy-to-keep coral.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a reef tank with moderate to intense lighting and low to moderate flow. Avoid high nitrate and phosphate levels. Supplemental feeding of plankton is beneficial.

##### [Yuma ricordea](/encyclopedia/ricordea-yuma)
**Ricordea yuma** — Ricordeidae · coral
Ricordea yuma is a solitary or colonial soft coral, popular in reef aquariums for its bright colors and ease of care.
Ricordea yuma appears as fleshy polyps, typically 5 to 15 cm in diameter. Its surface is covered with short, bulbous tentacles often arranged in concentric patterns. Coloration is extremely variable: green, blue, orange, red, purple, often with contrasting patterns. It has a central mouth surrounded by longer tentacles. It is photosynthetic thanks to its zooxanthellae, but can also capture small prey. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by budding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 80 liters is recommended for one specimen, with low to moderate lighting and low to moderate flow. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, dKH 8-12. It tolerates nitrates up to 10 ppm and phosphates up to 0.1 ppm. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but appreciates fine meaty foods like zooplankton or mysis. Beware of stinging tentacles: leave at least 10 cm of space from other corals. Avoid fish or invertebrates that might jostle it.

##### [Ehrenberg's leather coral](/encyclopedia/sarcophyton-ehrenbergi)
**Sarcophyton ehrenbergi** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A mushroom-shaped leather coral, hardy and easy to maintain.
Sarcophyton ehrenbergi is a soft coral of the family Alcyoniidae. It forms a mushroom-shaped colony with a thick stalk and a folded cap. It is very hardy and can grow large. It produces toxins that may inhibit the growth of other corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires moderate to intense lighting and moderate flow. Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Beware of allelopathic toxins, place away from other corals.

##### [Elegant leather coral](/encyclopedia/sarcophyton-elegans)
**Sarcophyton elegans** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A soft coral with fine, slender lobes, more delicate than S. trocheliophorum. Valued for its graceful shape.
Sarcophyton elegans is distinguished by its elongated, finger-like lobes, often light beige to pink. The stalk is short and broad. Polyps are small and retractable. It grows slower than other Sarcophyton and can reach 30 cm. It also produces allelopathic toxins. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate lighting and low flow. Asexual reproduction by fragmentation is possible.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters similar to S. trocheliophorum: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 50-80), low to moderate flow. Beware of toxins: space it from other corals. Feed with phytoplankton or liquid foods once a week. A minimum of 80 liters is recommended. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp. Avoid coral-eating fish.

##### [Toadstool leather coral](/encyclopedia/sarcophyton-glaucum)
**Sarcophyton glaucum** — Alcyoniidae · coral
The toadstool leather coral (Sarcophyton glaucum) is a common soft coral of Indo-Pacific reefs, recognizable by its large fleshy stalk and retractable polyps forming a mushroom-like cap.
Sarcophyton glaucum forms a mushroom-shaped colony with a thick, fleshy stalk and a broad, folded cap. The polyps are retractile and appear as small bumps when the colony is disturbed. Coloration ranges from beige to brown, sometimes with greenish or purplish hues. Colonies can reach 30 cm in diameter and 20 cm in height. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Maintain temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <10 ppm, and phosphates <0.1 ppm. Moderate lighting and low to moderate flow are suitable. It is photosynthetic but benefits from occasional planktonic feedings. Caution: it can release toxins (sarcophytoxin) that affect neighboring corals; space it at least 20 cm from other corals.

##### [Leather coral](/encyclopedia/sarcophyton-trocheliophorum)
**Sarcophyton trocheliophorum** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A fleshy lobed soft coral, very common in reef aquariums. It forms large mushroom-shaped colonies.
Sarcophyton trocheliophorum has a thick stalk and a lobed capitulum that can reach 50 cm. Its surface is wrinkled and may show beige, brown or green hues. It retracts its polyps at night and extends them during the day for photosynthesis. It produces toxins (sarcophytines) that inhibit the growth of nearby corals. This is a robust and tolerant species, ideal for beginners. It can reproduce by natural fragmentation or budding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4 and salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 50-100) is sufficient, but it tolerates stronger light. Water flow should be low to moderate to avoid tearing tissues. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts liquid coral foods. A minimum tank volume of 100 liters is recommended. Avoid placing it too close to other corals due to its toxins. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and invertebrates.

##### [Hard sinularia](/encyclopedia/sinularia-dura)
**Sinularia dura** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A soft coral with firm texture and short lobes, forming dome-shaped colonies. Very hardy in aquariums.
Sinularia dura has a thick stalk and short, rounded lobes, giving a compact appearance. Its color ranges from beige to dark brown. Polyps are small and numerous. It is less toxic than Sarcophyton but can still inhibit the growth of neighboring corals. It grows moderately fast and can reach 25 cm. In the aquarium, it adapts to a wide range of lighting and flow. It reproduces by fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 80-150), moderate flow. Tolerates parameter fluctuations. Feed with liquid foods or phytoplankton once or twice a week. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Compatible with most fish and invertebrates. Avoid angelfish and butterflyfish that may nip at it.

##### [Hard leather coral](/encyclopedia/sinularia-duriuscula)
**Sinularia duriuscula** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A leather coral with a hard texture, forming thick branches.
Sinularia duriuscula is a soft coral of the family Alcyoniidae. It is characterized by thick, rigid branches, beige to brown in color. It is less common than other Sinularia but equally hardy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to intense lighting, moderate flow. Tolerates variable conditions. Can be fed plankton.

##### [Flexible leather coral](/encyclopedia/sinularia-flexibilis)
**Sinularia flexibilis** — Alcyoniidae · coral
The flexible leather coral is a common soft coral of Indo-Pacific reefs, recognized by its soft, undulating lobes. It is highly valued in reef aquariums for its hardiness and graceful movement.
Sinularia flexibilis forms lobed, fleshy colonies up to 30 cm in diameter. The lobes are soft, flexible, often branched, with a wrinkled surface. Coloration ranges from light beige to brown, sometimes with greenish or purplish hues. Polyps are retractile and appear as small bumps when the colony is disturbed. In moderate flow, the lobes sway gently, resembling anemones. There is no visible sexual dimorphism; reproduction is both sexual (broadcast spawning) and asexual (fragmentation).
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for Sinularia flexibilis. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate water flow are ideal. Although primarily photosynthetic, occasional feeding with phytoplankton or micro-organisms can boost growth. Beware of allelopathy: this species releases terpenoids that can inhibit the growth of other soft or hard corals nearby. Activated carbon filtration is advised.

##### [Remarkable sinularia](/encyclopedia/sinularia-notanda)
**Sinularia notanda** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A soft coral with digitate lobes and a rough surface, often brightly colored. Less common but very decorative.
Sinularia notanda is characterized by elongated, branched lobes resembling fingers. Its texture is firm and the surface is covered with small warts. Colors range from olive green to purple. Polyps are large and conspicuous. It produces moderate allelopathic compounds. Growth is slow to moderate, reaching 20 cm. It prefers moderate lighting and low to moderate flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 60-100), low to moderate flow. Sensitive to high nitrates (>10 ppm). Feed with phytoplankton or liquid foods twice a week. Minimum tank volume 60 liters. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive corals nearby. Fragmentation possible but delicate.

##### [Pulsing xenia](/encyclopedia/xenia-elongata)
**Xenia elongata** — Xeniidae · coral
Xenia elongata is a popular pulsing soft coral in reef aquaria, known for its rhythmic polyp movement. It is easy to keep and propagates quickly.
Xenia elongata forms upright colonies with elongated polyps reaching 2–3 cm in height. Each polyp has eight feathery tentacles (pinnules) arranged in a crown, colored from white to light brown, often with violet or pink hues. The characteristic pulsing motion results from rhythmic contraction and expansion of the polyps, likely aiding gas exchange and nutrient uptake. Colonies can spread rapidly across surrounding rockwork. No obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by budding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80-liter tank is recommended for Xenia elongata. Stable water parameters are essential: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting and low to moderate flow are required. It relies primarily on photosynthesis via its zooxanthellae but benefits from supplemental phytoplankton or liquid coral food. Caution: this species can become invasive and overgrow other corals if not controlled.

##### [Umbrella xenia](/encyclopedia/xenia-umbellata)
**Xenia umbellata** — Xeniidae · coral
A soft coral with pulsing polyps, forming umbrella-shaped colonies. Very popular for its rhythmic movement.
Xenia umbellata has a thin stalk and an umbrella-shaped capitulum with long feathery polyps. The polyps pulse characteristically, opening and closing their tentacles. This pulsing is linked to photosynthesis and nutrient uptake. Colonies can reach 15 cm in diameter. They are beige, brown or sometimes green. The species is sensitive to parameter changes and can decline quickly. It reproduces by budding and fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Moderate lighting (PAR 50-100), moderate flow (essential for pulsing). Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Feed with phytoplankton or fine liquid foods. Minimum tank volume 50 liters. Avoid fish that nip at polyps. Compatible with shrimp and peaceful fish. Fragile, requires stable water. Can become invasive under good conditions.

##### [Giant zoanthid](/encyclopedia/zoanthus-gigantus)
**Zoanthus gigantus** — Zoanthidae · coral
Soft coral forming large colonies of colorful polyps. Easy to maintain.
Giant zoanthid is a very popular soft coral in reef keeping. Its polyps can reach several centimeters in diameter and come in many colors. It reproduces quickly and tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to high lighting, moderate flow. Feeding not necessary (photosynthetic). Beware of toxic palythoa.

##### [Brown zoanthid](/encyclopedia/zoanthus-pulchellus)
**Zoanthus pulchellus** — Zoanthidae · coral
Zoanthus pulchellus is a colonial soft coral of the family Zoanthidae, common in Caribbean reefs. It forms mats of brown to green polyps and is popular in reef aquariums for its ease of care.
Polyps of Zoanthus pulchellus are about 0.5 to 1 cm in diameter and are typically brown, sometimes with green or gray hues. The colony forms an encrusting mat on the substrate, with short, fleshy polyps. They have retractable tentacles that extend at night to capture particles. There is no visible sexual dimorphism. In aquariums, they can reproduce quickly by budding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended to maintain a stable colony. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1200-1350 mg/L, dKH 8-12, nitrates <10 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate lighting and low to moderate flow are suitable. They are photosynthetic but can benefit from target feeding with microplankton. Beware of stinging tentacles that can damage neighboring corals.

##### [Zanzibar zoanthid](/encyclopedia/zoanthus-sansibaricus)
**Zoanthus sansibaricus** — Zoanthidae · coral
The Zanzibar zoanthid is a soft coral forming colonies of colorful polyps. It is popular in reef aquariums for its ease of care.
The polyps of Zoanthus sansibaricus are small, with a crown of tentacles around a central mouth. Color varies from green to brown, sometimes with orange or pink hues. They form dense mats on rocks. They contain symbiotic zooxanthellae. They can retract quickly when threatened. They reproduce by budding. They are hardy but can be sensitive to parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to strong lighting. Moderate flow is beneficial. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. They tolerate a wide range of conditions but stable water is preferred. Feed with phytoplankton or liquid coral foods. Watch for filamentous algae that can smother them.

##### [Green zoanthid](/encyclopedia/zoanthus-sociatus)
**Zoanthus sociatus** — Zoanthidae · coral
Zoanthus sociatus is a colonial soft coral highly prized in reef aquariums for its vibrant green color and ease of care.
Polyps reach up to 2 cm in diameter and are bright green to olive green, sometimes with brown or yellow hues. They form dense mats connected by a common coenenchyme. Tentacles are short and arranged in two circles. This species is photosynthetic via its zooxanthellae and extends polyps during the day. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size: 40 liters. Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.1 mg/L. Lighting moderate to intense, flow moderate. Feeds mainly through photosynthesis but may accept plankton. Beware of stinging tentacles that can damage neighboring corals. Easy to propagate by fragmentation.

##### [Staghorn coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-cervicornis)
**Acropora cervicornis** — Acroporidae · coral
Staghorn coral is an iconic SPS coral of the Caribbean, forming branching colonies.
Acropora cervicornis is a fast-growing hard coral with thin, pointed cylindrical branches. It plays a key role in reef building. In aquariums, it requires intense lighting and strong water flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: CR
Maintain very stable water with high calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels. Avoid temperature fluctuations.

##### [Digitate coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-digitifera)
**Acropora digitifera** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora digitifera is a fast-growing branching coral recognizable by its digitate branches.
Its colonies form dense clumps of thin, digitate branches, often brown, green or bluish. Branch tips are rounded. It grows quickly and can dominate shallow reefs. Its polyps are small and retracted during the day. It reproduces by natural fragmentation. In aquariums, it requires strong light and moderate to strong flow. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Strong lighting, moderate to strong flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm. Nitrates < 5 ppm, phosphates < 0.05 ppm. Feeds by photosynthesis, possible plankton supplement. Minimum tank volume 200 liters. Compatible with other Acropora if enough space. Avoid polyp-grazing fish.

##### [Elegant acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-formosa)
**Acropora formosa** — Acroporidae · coral
Elegant acropora is a fast-growing SPS coral with thin, slender branches.
Acropora formosa is distinguished by its long, thin branches, often blue or purple. It is highly prized in aquariums for its beauty and fast growth. Requires high water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: NT
Provide strong lighting and moderate to strong flow. Maintain stable parameters.

##### [Hyacinth coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-hyacinthus)
**Acropora hyacinthus** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora hyacinthus forms table-like or corymbose colonies, highly prized in aquaristics.
This coral develops horizontal table-like branches with fine, pointed tips. Color ranges from blue to purple, sometimes green or brown. It grows moderately and can reach large sizes. Its polyps are small and retracted during the day. It is sensitive to bleaching. In aquariums, it requires intense light and strong flow. It is often used as a water quality indicator.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 250L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Very high lighting, strong flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm. Nitrates < 5 ppm, phosphates < 0.05 ppm. Feeds by photosynthesis, may accept plankton. Minimum tank volume 250 liters. Avoid fish that nip polyps. Fragile, requires very stable water. Propagation by fragmentation.

##### [Millepora coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-millepora)
**Acropora millepora** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora millepora is a highly sought-after SPS coral in reef aquaria for its vibrant colors and fast growth. It requires intense lighting and high water quality.
Acropora millepora forms arborescent or bushy colonies with thin, pointed branches. The polyps are small and retractable, giving a velvety appearance to the surface. Its coloration ranges from green to brown, with tips often blue, purple, or pink. It is a fast-growing coral that can reach 30 cm in diameter in aquaria. It exhibits limited sexual dimorphism, with colonies generally being gonochoric. In aquaria, it can develop intense colors under appropriate lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for a small frag, but a 200+ liter tank is better for a mature colony. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026, dKH 8-12, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Intense lighting (LED or metal halide) is essential, along with strong flow to bring nutrients and remove waste. It is sensitive to parameter swings and high nitrates/phosphates. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid coral-eating fish. Propagation is done by fragging branches.

##### [Nasuta coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-nasuta)
**Acropora nasuta** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora nasuta is a common branching coral, recognizable by its thin branches and prominent corallites.
Its colonies form dense bushes of thin, irregular branches, often brown, green or pink. Corallites are tubular and protruding. It grows quickly and easily colonizes substrates. Its polyps are small and retracted during the day. It is hardy and tolerates variable conditions. In aquariums, it requires strong light and moderate to strong flow. It is less demanding than other Acropora.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Strong lighting, moderate to strong flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm. Nitrates < 10 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. Feeds by photosynthesis, may accept plankton. Minimum tank volume 200 liters. Compatible with most fish. Easy propagation by fragmentation. Good choice for SPS beginners.

##### [Elkhorn coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-palmata)
**Acropora palmata** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora palmata is an iconic branching coral of the Caribbean, critically endangered.
This coral forms large elkhorn-shaped colonies with thick, rounded branches. Color ranges from light brown to yellow. It grows rapidly in clear, turbulent waters. Its polyps are small and retracted during the day. It plays a key role in reef building. In aquariums, it is very demanding, requiring intense light and strong flow. It is sensitive to bleaching and diseases.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 400L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: CR
Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Very high lighting (LED or metal halide) and strong flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm. Nitrates < 5 ppm, phosphates < 0.05 ppm. Feeds mainly through photosynthesis, but may accept fine plankton. Minimum tank volume 400 liters. Avoid coral-eating fish. Fragile during transport, requires slow acclimation.

##### [Robust Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-robusta)
**Acropora robusta** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora robusta is a massive coral with thick, sturdy branches, often cream or brown. It is very hardy and suitable for beginner SPS aquarists.
Colonies of Acropora robusta are massive or dome-shaped, with short, thick branches. Corallites are large and spaced, giving a rough texture. Color ranges from beige to dark brown, sometimes with bluish tips. This species tolerates less stable conditions than other Acropora. Growth is slow to moderate. Behavior is semi-aggressive, but less than other species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to other Acropora: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting, moderate to strong flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, alkalinity 7-12 dKH. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Minimum tank volume 80 L. Compatible with most hard corals. Feed plankton 1-2 times per week.

##### [Rye Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-secale)
**Acropora secale** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora secale is a branching coral with fine, dense branches, often brown or green. It is valued for its fast growth and ability to quickly colonize the aquarium.
Colonies of Acropora secale are arborescent, with fine, highly branched branches. Corallites are small and arranged in a spiral. Dominant color is light brown to olive green, sometimes with blue tips. This species is very hardy and adapts to various conditions. It grows fast and can become invasive. Behavior is semi-aggressive, requiring adequate spacing.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 35cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Standard Acropora parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting, strong flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, alkalinity 7-12 dKH. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Beware of fast growth that may shade neighboring corals. Feed phytoplankton and fine particles.

##### [Spatulate Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-spathulata)
**Acropora spathulata** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora spathulata is distinguished by its spatula-shaped branches, widened at the tips. It is a delicate but highly aesthetic SPS coral, sought after for its unique shape.
Colonies of Acropora spathulata are tabular or plate-like, with upright branches whose tips are flattened into spatulas. Corallites are small and aligned. Color is usually brown, gray or pale blue. This species requires very clean water and moderate flow. Growth is slow. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Behavior is peaceful, but can be aggressive if space is limited.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.2-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.024-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.2-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting, moderate flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm, alkalinity 8-10 dKH. Nitrates <2 ppm, phosphates <0.03 ppm. Minimum tank volume 150 L. Avoid sudden changes. Compatible with other non-aggressive SPS corals. Feed fine zooplankton twice a week.

##### [Subglabrous Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-subglabra)
**Acropora subglabra** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora subglabra is a coral with smooth, fine branches, often cream or pale pink. It is valued for its delicate appearance and moderate growth.
Colonies of Acropora subglabra are arborescent, with fine, smooth branches, almost without prominent corallites. Tips are rounded. Color ranges from cream white to pale pink, sometimes with purple hues. This species is sensitive to water quality. Growth is moderate. It is less aggressive than other Acropora. It can be kept in groups if space is sufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting, moderate to strong flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, alkalinity 7-12 dKH. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Avoid high nutrient levels. Compatible with other peaceful SPS corals. Feed fine plankton 1-2 times per week.

##### [Tenuis acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-tenuis)
**Acropora tenuis** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora tenuis is a branching SPS coral, prized in reef aquariums for its vibrant colors and fast growth.
Acropora tenuis forms arborescent colonies with thin, slender branches, often colored blue, purple, green, or brown. The polyps are small and retractable, with short tentacles. Branches can reach 30 cm in length in aquariums. Growth is rapid under good conditions. There is no visible sexual dimorphism, but colonies can be male or female.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 200 liters is recommended, with intense lighting (LED or metal halide) and strong flow. Parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. It is photosynthetic but appreciates zooplankton feeding. Compatible with other SPS corals, but avoid soft corals that release toxins. Beware of polychaete worms and grazing fish.

##### [Cylindrical Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-teres)
**Acropora teres** — Acroporidae · coral
The Cylindrical Acropora is a stony coral with thick, rounded branches forming dense colonies. It is prized in aquaria for its fast growth and vibrant coloration.
This coral has robust cylindrical branches, often brown, green or bluish. The polyps are small and retractile, giving a smooth surface. It colonizes well-lit reef areas. Growth is rapid under optimal conditions. It can reach over 50 cm in diameter. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Good water flow is essential to prevent sedimentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium should be 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting (LED or T5) is required. Strong to moderate flow is recommended. Feed with zooplankton and phytoplankton. A minimum tank volume of 100 L is advised. Keep nitrates below 5 ppm and phosphates below 0.05 ppm. Compatible with other SPS corals.

##### [Twisted Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-tortuosa)
**Acropora tortuosa** — Acroporidae · coral
The Twisted Acropora is distinguished by its spiral or twisted branches, forming dense colonies. It is less common in the hobby but highly sought after for its unique shape.
The branches of this coral are irregularly twisted, often brown, green or pink. Polyps are small and spaced. It grows on reef slopes with moderate flow. Growth is moderate. It can form colonies of 30-40 cm. It is sensitive to diseases and pests. Very clean water is essential. Careful acclimation is required.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 100L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: VU
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting (LED, T5). Moderate to strong flow. Feed with zooplankton. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Avoid sudden fluctuations. Compatible with other Acropora and Montipora.

##### [Valida Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-valida)
**Acropora valida** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora valida is a robust and common SPS coral, forming branching colonies with rounded tips. It is valued in aquaria for its fast growth and bright coloration.
Acropora valida has thick, conical branches, often brown, green or bluish with retracted polyps. Corallites are arranged in rows, giving a rough appearance. This species forms massive or corymbose colonies. It is very tolerant to parameter fluctuations. Its behavior is semi-aggressive, using sweeper tentacles to defend space. It reproduces easily by fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (LED or T5) and strong flow are required. Calcium (400-450 ppm), magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) and alkalinity (7-12 dKH) must be stable. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. A minimum tank volume of 100 L is recommended. Compatible with other SPS if enough space. Feed plankton and phytoplankton 2-3 times per week.

##### [Yong's Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-yongei)
**Acropora yongei** — Acroporidae · coral
Yong's Acropora is a fast-growing branching coral, often brightly colored. It is popular in the hobby for its relative hardiness.
This coral forms fine, regular branches, yellow, green or blue. Polyps are small and numerous. It colonizes well-lit reef areas. Growth is fast, up to 10 cm per year. It can reach 40 cm in diameter. It is less demanding than other Acropora. Good water flow is needed. It tolerates slightly variable parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting. Moderate to strong flow. Feed with zooplankton and phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Compatible with most SPS corals. Easy to frag.

##### [Tuberculate montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-aequituberculata)
**Montipora aequituberculata** — Acroporidae · coral
Tuberculate montipora is an encrusting or plating SPS coral with distinctive tubercles.
Montipora aequituberculata forms encrusting or plating colonies with rounded tubercles. Often brown, green, or pink. Easier to maintain for an SPS.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong lighting, moderate flow. Tolerates slightly less stable parameters than Acropora.

##### [Capricorn montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-capricornis)
**Montipora capricornis** — Acroporidae · coral
The Capricorn montipora is an SPS coral recognizable by its twisted horn-shaped or plate-like colonies. It is highly prized in reef aquariums for its fast growth and vibrant colors.
Montipora capricornis forms massive or encrusting colonies, often as horizontal plates or upright twisted horns. The polyps are very small (less than 1 mm) and retractile, giving a velvety texture. Coloration ranges from green, brown, pink to purple, often with lighter edges. Corallites are immersed in the coenosteum with indistinct walls. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but reproduction is both sexual and asexual via fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended, with intense lighting (LED or metal halide) and moderate to strong flow. Parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 mg/L, magnesium >1300 mg/L, KH 8-12 dKH. Nitrates should stay below 5 mg/L and phosphates below 0.03 mg/L. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis, but supplementation with phytoplankton or liquid coral food is beneficial. Beware of polyp stings when handling, and avoid placing it too close to aggressive corals.

##### [Dana's Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-danae)
**Montipora danae** — Acroporidae · coral
An encrusting Montipora with bright colors, often green or pink. Easy to maintain for intermediate aquarists.
Montipora danae forms encrusting or foliaceous colonies with small, tightly packed corallites. Its color is usually green, pink, or orange, sometimes with contrasting edges. The polyps are very small and extend only at night. It is a hardy coral that tolerates moderate to high light. It grows quickly and can cover rocks. It is peaceful and can be placed near other corals without conflict.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting. Moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, but may benefit from phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 60 liters for a frag, 150 liters for a colony. Compatible with most reef fish. Avoid coral-eating fish. Easy propagation by fragmentation.

##### [Digitata montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-digitata)
**Montipora digitata** — Acroporidae · coral
Montipora digitata is a branching SPS coral popular in reef aquaria for its fast growth and bright coloration. It requires intense lighting and moderate to strong water flow.
Montipora digitata forms branching colonies with digitate branches 1–2 cm in diameter, reaching up to 30 cm in height. The polyps are small and retractile, revealing a porous coenosteum. Coloration ranges from brown to green, pink, or orange, often with lighter tips. It is a fast-growing species, especially under optimal conditions. There is no pronounced sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction via fragmentation is common. In aquaria, it may develop sweeper tentacles at night but is generally peaceful.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for a small fragment, but 200 liters or more is preferable for a mature colony. Parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1500 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH. Intense lighting (LED or T5) and moderate to strong flow are essential. Nutrition is primarily photosynthetic, but feeding with phytoplankton or fine particulate matter can be beneficial. Beware of allelopathy with other corals; provide adequate spacing.

##### [Foliose Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-foliosa)
**Montipora foliosa** — Acroporidae · coral
Foliose Montipora forms wavy, overlapping plates resembling leaves. It is a hardy coral easy to maintain.
This coral develops foliaceous structures, often brown, green or pink. Polyps are very small, giving a velvety appearance. It grows on hard substrates on reefs. Growth is moderate to fast. It can cover large areas. It is tolerant of variable conditions. Often used as a starter coral in the hobby.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting. Moderate flow. Feed with phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Nitrates <20 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Compatible with most corals. Easy to frag.

##### [Hairy Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-hirsuta)
**Montipora hirsuta** — Acroporidae · coral
A branching Montipora with elongated corallites giving a hairy appearance. Valued for its unique texture.
Montipora hirsuta is distinguished by its thin branches and prominent tubular corallites that give it a hairy look. Its color is usually brown, green, or cream. The polyps are small and extend at night. It grows moderately fast and forms dense colonies. It prefers strong flow to prevent sediment accumulation. It is a hardy coral but requires clean, stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting. Strong flow recommended. Feeding: photosynthetic, but may accept zooplankton. Minimum tank volume: 100 liters. Compatible with peaceful reef fish. Avoid fish that nip at polyps. Propagation by branch fragmentation.

##### [Irregular Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-informis)
**Montipora informis** — Acroporidae · coral
An encrusting Montipora with irregular shapes, often brown or green. Easy to maintain and ideal for SPS beginners.
Montipora informis forms encrusting colonies with irregular outlines, sometimes with small protrusions. Its color is usually brown, beige, or dull green. The corallites are small and not very prominent. It grows slowly to moderately. It tolerates moderate light and low to moderate flow. It is a very hardy coral, suitable for less stable aquariums. It can cover rocks and walls.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting. Low to moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, no supplemental feeding required. Minimum tank volume: 40 liters for a frag. Compatible with most fish and invertebrates. Easy propagation by base fragmentation.

##### [Spongy Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-spongodes)
**Montipora spongodes** — Acroporidae · coral
Spongy Montipora forms thick, porous encrustations resembling a sponge. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners.
This encrusting coral has a spongy texture, often brown, green or purple. Polyps are tiny and scattered. It colonizes shaded reef areas. Growth is slow but steady. It can cover large rock surfaces. It is very tolerant of fluctuating parameters. Ideal for beginner reef tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Low to moderate lighting. Low to moderate flow. Feed with phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Nitrates <30 ppm, phosphates <0.2 ppm. Compatible with all corals. Fragmentation by cutting.

##### [Bumpy Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-tuberculosa)
**Montipora tuberculosa** — Acroporidae · coral
A robust SPS coral with distinctive tubular corallites. Popular in reef aquaria for its fast growth and varied colors.
Montipora tuberculosa forms encrusting or branching colonies with prominent tubercle-like corallites. Its color ranges from brown to green, sometimes pink or purple. The polyps are small and retractile, visible mainly at night. It is a hardy coral that tolerates slightly less stable conditions than other SPS. It grows quickly in calcium-rich and alkaline water. Its behavior is peaceful, but it can be sensitive to sudden parameter swings.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting (LED or metal halide) required for growth and coloration. Moderate to strong flow recommended. Feeding: photosynthetic, but appreciates phytoplankton and zooplankton supplements 1-2 times per week. Minimum tank volume: 80 liters for a small frag, 200 liters for a colony. Compatible with most reef fish and peaceful invertebrates. Avoid coral-eating fish. Easy to propagate by fragmentation.

##### [Wart-like montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-verrucosa)
**Montipora verrucosa** — Acroporidae · coral
Wart-like montipora is an encrusting SPS coral with warts or nodules.
Montipora verrucosa forms encrusting colonies with warty protrusions. Various colors: brown, green, purple. It is a robust coral for SPS beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Tolerant to slight variations.

##### [Cauliflower coral](/encyclopedia/pocillopora-damicornis)
**Pocillopora damicornis** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Cauliflower coral is a common SPS branching coral in reef aquariums, recognizable by its thick branches and prominent polyps. It is photosynthetic and requires intense lighting and moderate to strong flow.
Pocillopora damicornis forms massive or branching colonies with thick, rounded branches resembling cauliflower. The polyps are large and often visible, with short tentacles. Coloration ranges from light brown to pink, green, or purple, often with lighter tips. It has sweeper tentacles that can damage neighboring corals. Sexual dimorphism is not apparent, but asexual reproduction by fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter tank is recommended, with intense lighting (LED or metal halide) and moderate to strong flow. Stable parameters are essential: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates should remain below 5 ppm and phosphates below 0.05 ppm. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts microplankton. Beware of sweeper tentacles: space it at least 10 cm from other corals. Avoid sudden parameter swings.

##### [Eydoux's Pocillopora](/encyclopedia/pocillopora-eydouxi)
**Pocillopora eydouxi** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching coral with thin, highly branched stems forming dense bushes. Valued in aquaria for its fast growth.
Pocillopora eydouxi is distinguished by its thin, highly divided branches, often broom-shaped. Polyps are small and numerous, giving a velvety appearance. Color is usually brown, green or pale pink. It colonizes high-current areas forming large colonies. Its symbiosis with zooxanthelles provides most of its energy. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations. In aquaria, it requires intense lighting and strong water movement.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (PAR >250) essential. Strong to very strong flow recommended. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Beware of sudden parameter changes. Compatible with other hard corals if enough space. Easy fragmentation. Adult size up to 40 cm.

##### [Meandering Pocillopora](/encyclopedia/pocillopora-meandrina)
**Pocillopora meandrina** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching coral forming massive colonies with thick, rounded branches. Very common in Indo-Pacific reefs.
Pocillopora meandrina is a colonial scleractinian coral with robust, often meandering branches. The polyps are small and retractile, giving a rough texture to the surface. Color ranges from light brown to pink, often with lighter tips. It can withstand moderate to strong currents. This species hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae. Its growth is relatively fast in aquariums. It can reach 50 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (LED or T5) is required. Strong water flow is recommended to mimic its natural habitat. Nitrate levels should stay below 10 ppm, phosphates below 0.1 ppm. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1300-1400 ppm) are essential. It is moderately aggressive towards other corals, so provide spacing. Propagation by fragmentation is easy.

##### [Wart coral](/encyclopedia/pocillopora-verrucosa)
**Pocillopora verrucosa** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching SPS coral with distinctive wart-like bumps, very popular in reef aquariums.
Pocillopora verrucosa is a common SPS coral in Indo-Pacific reefs. Its branches are covered with small wart-like bumps. Colors include pink, purple, green, and brown. Moderately difficult to keep, requiring intense lighting and strong flow. Can be sensitive to parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-26°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12. Lighting PAR 300-400. Strong flow. Feed with zooplankton 2-3 times per week. Avoid high nitrates.

##### [Mustard Hill Coral](/encyclopedia/porites-astreoides)
**Porites astreoides** — Poritidae · coral
Massive slow-growing coral forming rounded mounds. Very hardy and suitable for beginner aquariums.
Porites astreoides appears as massive, dome-shaped or encrusting colonies, mustard yellow to brown. Polyps are very small and tightly packed. It is often confused with Porites porites but distinguished by its brighter color. It tolerates a wide range of conditions. It can be used as a structural element in the aquascape. Its slow growth makes it easy to manage.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200). Low to moderate flow. Calcium 380-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1300 ppm. Alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates <20 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Can be fed phytoplankton. Very resistant to diseases. Compatible with most fish. Can be placed on the bottom or mid-tank.

##### [Porites Coral](/encyclopedia/porites-porites)
**Porites porites** — Poritidae · coral
Massive or encrusting coral, very hardy and easy to keep. Slow but robust growth.
Porites porites forms massive, dome-shaped or encrusting colonies with very small polyps. Color ranges from beige to brown, sometimes pale green. It is very tolerant of parameter fluctuations. It can survive in more turbid waters. In aquaria, it is ideal for beginners. It does not require intense lighting. It can be used as a substrate for other corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) is sufficient. Low to moderate flow. Calcium 380-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1300 ppm. Alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates <20 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Can be fed phytoplankton or small particles. Very resistant to diseases. Slow growth, no frequent pruning needed. Compatible with most fish and invertebrates.

##### [Birdsnest Coral](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-aculeata)
**Seriatopora aculeata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Very fine branching coral forming dense bushes resembling a bird's nest. Very popular in aquaria.
Seriatopora aculeata has extremely thin and pointed branches, densely branched, giving a bird's nest appearance. Polyps are tiny and retractile. Color ranges from brown to green, sometimes pink or purple. It grows quickly under good conditions. It is more robust than other Seriatopora. It tolerates moderate to strong flow. Its symbiosis with zooxanthellae is very efficient.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 200-300). Moderate to strong flow. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. More tolerant than other Seriatopora. Beware of fragile tips during cleaning. Compatible with most reef fish. Easy fragmentation.

##### [Caliendrum bird's nest](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-caliendrum)
**Seriatopora caliendrum** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Delicate SPS coral with a bird's nest shape, fine pointed branches.
Seriatopora caliendrum is a fine-branching SPS coral forming dense colonies resembling a bird's nest. Branches are thin and taper to points. Colors range from pale pink to purple, sometimes green. It is more sensitive than other Pocilloporidae and requires very stable water, moderate to high lighting, and moderate flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 120L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-26°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12. Lighting PAR 250-350. Moderate flow. Feed with phytoplankton. Avoid sudden parameter changes.

##### [Dendritic Seriatopora](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-dendritica)
**Seriatopora dendritica** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching coral with irregular ramifications resembling miniature trees. Valued for its elegant shape.
Seriatopora dendritica is characterized by thin, highly branched stems forming a dendritic (tree-like) structure. Polyps are aligned along the branches, giving a ribbed appearance. Color is often brown, beige or green. It grows in spreading colonies. It is more tolerant of moderate flow than S. stellata. Growth is slow to moderate. It requires oligotrophic water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 150-200). Moderate flow, avoid dead spots. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.03 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Sensitive to nutrient excess. Compatible with peaceful reef fish. Fragmentation possible but delicate. Adult size 20-30 cm.

##### [Birdsnest Coral](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-guttata)
**Seriatopora guttata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Delicate SPS coral forming fine branching colonies. Requires very stable water parameters and intense lighting.
Seriatopora guttata is an SPS coral with thin, pointed branches, often pink, purple or green. The polyps are small and retractile, giving a fuzzy appearance. It grows quickly under optimal conditions. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations and diseases. In aquaria, it is prized for its elegant structure. It can form dense bush-like colonies.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (PAR 250-350) is required. Strong turbulent flow is recommended. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) levels must be stable. Alkalinity should be kept between 8-12 dKH. Keep nitrates <5 ppm and phosphates <0.03 ppm. Targeted feeding with zooplankton can be beneficial. This coral is sensitive to stress and requires slow acclimation.

##### [Bird's nest coral](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-hystrix)
**Seriatopora hystrix** — Pocilloporidae · coral
The Bird's nest coral is a highly sought-after SPS coral in reef aquariums for its fast growth and vibrant color. It forms dense, bird's nest-like colonies.
Seriatopora hystrix forms bushy, branching colonies with thin, pointed branches. The polyps are small and retractile, often visible during the day. Coloration ranges from pink to purple, sometimes green or cream. It exhibits strong sexual dimorphism in reproductive polyps. Branches can reach 30 cm in length in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This coral requires a mature reef tank with intense lighting (Metal Halide or powerful LEDs) and strong turbulent flow. Parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 mg/L, magnesium >1300 mg/L, KH 8-12 dKH. It is sensitive to nitrate and phosphate fluctuations (NO3 <10 ppm, PO4 <0.05 ppm). Beware of stinging tentacles at night: space it from other corals. Propagation by fragging is easy.

##### [Stellate Seriatopora](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-stellata)
**Seriatopora stellata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching coral with thin, pointed branches forming star-like structures. Popular in aquaria for its delicate shape.
Seriatopora stellata has very thin branches, often arranged in a star shape, with sharp tips. Polyps are small and retractile, revealing aligned corallites. Color ranges from light brown to green, sometimes with purple tips. It grows in dense, compact colonies. It is less tolerant of strong currents than Pocillopora. Growth is moderate. It requires very stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 150-250). Moderate flow, avoid direct jets. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Sensitive to temperature and salinity fluctuations. Fragile, handle with care. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by fragmentation is delicate.

##### [Madagascar Stylophora](/encyclopedia/stylophora-madagascarensis)
**Stylophora madagascarensis** — Pocilloporidae · coral
A branching SPS coral with visible polyps, endemic to Madagascar. Valued for its bright color and fast growth.
Stylophora madagascarensis forms dense branching colonies with thick, rounded branches. The polyps are large and often visible during the day, giving a fuzzy appearance. Its color ranges from pink to purple, sometimes green or brown. It grows quickly under optimal conditions. It is more tolerant than other SPS but requires clean water. It can be aggressive towards neighboring corals through direct contact.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting. Moderate to strong flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, but appreciates zooplankton 1-2 times per week. Minimum tank volume: 100 liters. Compatible with reef fish, but can injure neighboring corals with its stinging tentacles. Leave a 10 cm space around. Easy propagation by branch fragmentation.

##### [Pistillata stylophora](/encyclopedia/stylophora-pistillata)
**Stylophora pistillata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
The Stylophora is a branching SPS coral highly valued in reef aquariums for its fast growth and vibrant colors. It requires intense lighting and stable water conditions.
Stylophora pistillata forms bushy colonies with thick, rounded branches reaching 30–40 cm in diameter. The polyps are small, retractable, and coloration ranges from pink to purple, sometimes green or brown. Branch tips are often lighter. This species has stinging sweeper tentacles that extend at night to defend its space. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction via fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 35cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 100 liters, with intense lighting (LED or metal halide) and moderate to strong flow. Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Feeding: photosynthetic, but may benefit from phytoplankton or fine zooplankton. Beware of stinging tentacles: space at least 10 cm from other corals. Sensitive to parameter fluctuations.

##### [Subseriata stylophora](/encyclopedia/stylophora-subseriata)
**Stylophora subseriata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
A hardy SPS coral with thick, rounded branches, suitable for intermediate reef keepers.
Stylophora subseriata is an SPS coral from the Pocilloporidae family. It forms massive or branching colonies with inconspicuous corallites. Coloration ranges from brown to green, sometimes with pink or purple tips. It is relatively tolerant of parameter fluctuations, making it a good choice for SPS beginners. Requires moderate to high lighting and moderate water flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-26°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12. Lighting PAR 200-300. Moderate flow. Feed with phytoplankton or liquid coral foods 1-2 times per week.

#### Plants
Source : /encyclopedia/plantes

##### [Killer algae](/encyclopedia/caulerpa-taxifolia)
**Caulerpa taxifolia** — Caulerpaceae · plant
Fast-growing green macroalgae, decorative but invasive.
Green alga with yew-like fronds, can form vast mats. Very fast growth, needs regular trimming.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Medium to strong light, stable water. Keep in a dedicated tank or refugium as it is very invasive.

##### [Spaghetti algae](/encyclopedia/chaetomorpha-linum)
**Chaetomorpha linum** — Cladophoraceae · plant
Filamentous alga ideal for refugiums and nitrate absorption.
Green filamentous alga in dense tufts, very effective at absorbing nitrates and phosphates. Fast growth.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, nutrient-rich water. Ideal in a refugium for nutrient export.

##### [Red ogo](/encyclopedia/gracilaria-parvispora)
**Gracilaria parvispora** — Gracilariaceae · plant
Branched red alga, excellent for refugiums and feeding.
Finely branched red alga, much appreciated by herbivorous fish and invertebrates. Fast growth.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, nutrient-rich water. Ideal in a refugium.

##### [Cactus algae](/encyclopedia/halimeda-opuntia)
**Halimeda opuntia** — Halimedaceae · plant
Segmented calcareous alga, very decorative, contributes to reef structure.
Calcareous alga with articulated cactus-like segments. Fixes calcium, contributes to reef structure.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, stable calcium and alkalinity. Fragile, handle with care.

##### [Sea lettuce](/encyclopedia/ulva-lactuca)
**Ulva lactuca** — Ulvaceae · plant
Leafy green alga, much appreciated by herbivorous fish.
Green alga in thin translucent leaves. Food source for herbivorous fish and invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.026
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong light, nutrient-rich water. Fast growth, trim regularly.

#### Invertebrates
Source : /encyclopedia/invertebres

##### [Aurora anemone](/encyclopedia/entacmaea-aurora)
**Entacmaea aurora** — Actiniidae · invertebrate
The aurora anemone is a medium-sized anemone with bright colors ranging from green to purple. It is appreciated for its beauty and ease of care.
Entacmaea aurora is a solitary anemone of the family Actiniidae. Its diameter can reach 15 cm. It has short, thick tentacles, often with colored tips. It lives attached to rocks or in sand. It can move slowly. It sometimes hosts clownfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires a stable reef aquarium with moderate to intense lighting. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: small pieces of fish, shrimp, brine shrimp. Avoid strong currents. Beware of other anemones as it can be aggressive.

##### [Bubble-tip anemone](/encyclopedia/entacmaea-quadricolor)
**Entacmaea quadricolor** — Actiniidae · invertebrate
The bubble-tip anemone is a popular sea anemone for its symbiosis with clownfish and its bubble-shaped tentacles.
Entacmaea quadricolor, the bubble-tip anemone, is a sea anemone species of the family Actiniidae. Its tentacles have bubble-like tips, hence its name. It can reach 30 cm in diameter. It often hosts clownfish (Amphiprion) and requires intense lighting and good water quality. It can divide in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Intense lighting (LED or T5), salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C, nitrates <10 ppm. Feeding: small pieces of fish, shrimp, or specific anemone food. Avoid strong currents. May move, so secure rocks.

##### [Crispa anemone](/encyclopedia/heteractis-crispa)
**Heteractis crispa** — Stichodactylidae · invertebrate
The crispa anemone is a medium-sized anemone with long, wavy tentacles. It is popular for reef aquariums and can host clownfish.
Heteractis crispa is an anemone of the family Stichodactylidae. Its diameter can reach 30 cm. Its tentacles are long, thin and often curled, giving a frizzy appearance. Its color varies from brown to green, sometimes with purple tips. It lives attached to rocks. It is less stinging than other anemones.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires a reef aquarium of at least 150 liters with moderate to intense lighting and moderate flow. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: small fish, shrimp, brine shrimp. Beware of other anemones as it can move.

##### [Magnificent anemone](/encyclopedia/heteractis-magnifica)
**Heteractis magnifica** — Stichodactylidae · invertebrate
Large symbiotic anemone with colorful tentacles, host to clownfish.
The magnificent anemone is one of the largest sea anemones. Its tentacles can reach 15 cm. It often hosts clownfish and shrimps. It requires intense lighting and high water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Mature aquarium with strong lighting (LED or metal halide). Moderate flow. Diet: small fish, shrimp, plankton. Avoid sudden changes.

##### [Giant carpet anemone](/encyclopedia/stichodactyla-gigantea)
**Stichodactyla gigantea** — Stichodactylidae · invertebrate
The giant carpet anemone is a large anemone that can reach 1 meter in diameter. It is highly sought after for reef aquariums but requires a large volume.
Stichodactyla gigantea is an anemone of the family Stichodactylidae. It has a large, flat oral disc covered with many short, sticky tentacles. Its color varies from brown to green. It lives in sandy areas and can host clownfish. It is very stinging.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 300L, Size 100cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NT
Requires a very large aquarium (minimum 300 liters) with intense lighting and moderate flow. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: large pieces of fish, shrimp, squid. Very demanding on parameter stability. Avoid contact with other corals.

##### [Carpet anemone](/encyclopedia/stichodactyla-tapetum)
**Stichodactyla tapetum** — Stichodactylidae · invertebrate
Large anemone with a wide, flat oral disc forming a carpet. Symbiotic with clownfish.
Stichodactyla tapetum is a sea anemone of the family Stichodactylidae. Its oral disc can reach 30 cm in diameter, covered with short, thick tentacles. It lives in symbiosis with several clownfish species. Requires a mature aquarium with intense lighting and moderate flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
Delicate species for experienced aquarists. Requires very stable water, strong lighting (LED or metal halide), and regular feeding with pieces of fish, shrimp, or specific anemone food. Avoid parameter fluctuations.

##### [Armed pistol shrimp](/encyclopedia/alpheus-armatus)
**Alpheus armatus** — Alpheidae · invertebrate
The armed pistol shrimp is a small pistol shrimp from the Caribbean, often associated with gobies and living in burrows.
This shrimp has a disproportionate claw that produces a snap. Its coloration is generally beige or brown with spots. It lives in symbiosis with gobies of the genus Ctenogobius. It digs burrows under rocks. It is diurnal and feeds on small crustaceans and detritus. Its claw is used for defense and hunting. It reaches about 4 cm. It is an interesting species for reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank size of 30 liters is recommended. Sandy substrate and rocks are needed. Diet: small pieces of fish, shrimp, frozen foods. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. It can be territorial with other shrimp. Presence of a goby is beneficial. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Tiger pistol shrimp](/encyclopedia/alpheus-bellulus)
**Alpheus bellulus** — Alpheidae · invertebrate
The tiger pistol shrimp is known for its claw capable of producing a powerful snapping sound.
Alpheus bellulus, the tiger pistol shrimp, belongs to the family Alpheidae. It has a large claw that, when closed, creates a cavitation bubble producing a deafening snap, used to stun prey or communicate. Its coloration is brown-red with lighter bands. It often lives in symbiosis with gobies of the genera Amblyeleotris or Cryptocentrus, sharing a burrow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires a sandy substrate at least 5 cm deep for burrowing. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Can be kept with a partner goby. Diet: small pieces of fish, brine shrimp, mysis. Avoid burrowing fish.

##### [Lottin's pistol shrimp](/encyclopedia/alpheus-lottini)
**Alpheus lottini** — Alpheidae · invertebrate
Lottin's pistol shrimp is a small symbiotic shrimp that lives in association with gobies, using its claw to dig and defend.
This shrimp has a large claw capable of producing a powerful snap. Its coloration is generally orange or red with patterns. It lives in pairs or groups with a goby that acts as a lookout. It digs burrows in the sand. It is diurnal and feeds on small invertebrates and detritus. Its claw can stun prey. It reaches about 5 cm. It is a fascinating species for reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank size of 30 liters is sufficient. A deep sandy substrate is needed for burrowing. It feeds on small pieces of fish, shrimp, and frozen foods. Moderate lighting and moderate flow are suitable. It is generally peaceful but can be territorial with other shrimp. Cohabitation with a goby is recommended. Captive breeding is possible but difficult.

##### [Randall's pistol shrimp](/encyclopedia/alpheus-randalli)
**Alpheus randalli** — Alpheidae · invertebrate
Symbiotic pistol shrimp that digs burrows and lives in association with gobies. Its claw snap is characteristic.
Randall's pistol shrimp is a small, stocky shrimp with a bright orange body and white spots. It has a large asymmetrical claw that produces a powerful snap capable of stunning prey. It lives in symbiosis with gobies of the genus Amblyeleotris or Cryptocentrus: the shrimp digs and maintains the burrow, while the goby stands guard. In an aquarium, this duo is highly appreciated for its fascinating behavior.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Deep sandy substrate (10 cm) for digging. Pair with a partner goby. Feed with frozen meaty foods and pellets. Avoid aggressive burrowing fish.

##### [Cleaner shrimp](/encyclopedia/lysmata-amboinensis)
**Lysmata amboinensis** — Hippolytidae · invertebrate
The cleaner shrimp is a popular marine invertebrate that cleans fish of parasites.
The cleaner shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) is a marine shrimp species of the family Hippolytidae. It is recognizable by its bright red coloration with a white longitudinal stripe on the back and white antennae. Highly valued in reef aquariums, it establishes cleaning stations where it removes parasites and dead tissue from fish. Its active behavior and coloration make it an aesthetic and useful addition.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain water quality with salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C, and nitrates below 20 ppm. Provide hiding places and a varied diet (brine shrimp, mysis, invertebrate food). Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Fire shrimp](/encyclopedia/lysmata-debelius)
**Lysmata debelius** — Hippolytidae · invertebrate
The fire shrimp is a bright red shrimp highly prized for its intense color and shy behavior.
Lysmata debelius, commonly known as the fire shrimp or Debelius' shrimp, is a marine shrimp species of the family Hippolytidae. It is distinguished by its uniform bright red color and long white antennae. Unlike the cleaner shrimp, it is shyer and prefers shaded areas of the reef. It is often kept in reef aquariums for its beauty but requires careful acclimation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to L. amboinensis: salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Provide plenty of hiding places (live rock). Diet: small crustaceans, brine shrimp, mysis. Avoid territorial fish.

##### [Banded cleaner shrimp](/encyclopedia/lysmata-grabhami)
**Lysmata grabhami** — Hippolytidae · invertebrate
Cleaner shrimp with red and white bands, very active and useful for parasite control. It cleans fish and corals.
The banded cleaner shrimp is an elegant species with a translucent body adorned with longitudinal red and white bands. It has long antennae and fine claws. It is a professional cleaner that sets up cleaning stations where fish come to have their parasites removed. In an aquarium, it is highly appreciated for its active behavior and ability to reduce diseases. It is hermaphroditic and can reproduce in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Reef aquarium with live rock and hiding places. Feed with frozen meaty foods, brine shrimp and mysis. Avoid aggressive fish or shrimp predators.

##### [Atlantic cleaner shrimp](/encyclopedia/lysmata-wurdemanni)
**Lysmata wurdemanni** — Hippolytidae · invertebrate
Very popular cleaner shrimp in reef aquariums, recognizable by its red and white bands. It actively cleans fish.
The Atlantic cleaner shrimp is a small shrimp with an elongated, translucent body crossed by red and white bands. Its antennae are long and thin. It is known for its cleaning behavior: it climbs onto fish and removes parasites and dead skin. It is a hardy and easy-to-keep species that adapts well to aquarium life. It is hermaphroditic and can reproduce in captivity if conditions are favorable.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Reef aquarium with live rock and hiding places. Feed with frozen meaty foods, brine shrimp and mysis. Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Banded coral shrimp](/encyclopedia/stenopus-hispidus)
**Stenopus hispidus** — Stenopodidae · invertebrate
The banded coral shrimp is easily recognized by its red and white bands and long claws.
Stenopus hispidus, the banded coral shrimp, is a marine shrimp species of the family Stenopodidae. It displays a characteristic red and white banded pattern and long claws. It is often seen in pairs, cleaning fish. Unlike Lysmata, it is more robust and can be aggressive towards other shrimp. It requires a well-established aquarium with hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Provide caves and overhangs. Diet: brine shrimp, mysis, small pieces of fish. Can be kept in pairs. Avoid other similarly sized shrimp.

##### [Spotted boxer shrimp](/encyclopedia/stenopus-scutellatus)
**Stenopus scutellatus** — Stenopodidae · invertebrate
The spotted boxer shrimp is a small reef shrimp recognizable by its long antennae and white spots. It is popular in marine aquariums for its active behavior.
Stenopus scutellatus, commonly known as the spotted boxer shrimp, is a species of shrimp in the family Stenopodidae. It grows up to 5 cm. Its body is translucent with white spots and red bands. It has long antennae and claws. It lives in pairs in reef crevices. It is territorial and can be aggressive towards other shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a reef aquarium of at least 50 liters with plenty of hiding places. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Varied diet: brine shrimp, mysis, frozen food. Avoid aggressive fish. Can be kept in pairs.

##### [Fine-beaked banded shrimp](/encyclopedia/stenopus-tenuirostris)
**Stenopus tenuirostris** — Stenopodidae · invertebrate
The fine-beaked banded shrimp is a cleaner shrimp with long antennae and characteristic red and white bands.
This shrimp has an elongated body with red and white bands. Its antennae are very long and thin. It is an active cleaner that removes parasites from fish. It often lives in pairs. It is diurnal and moves on rocks. It can reach 8 cm in length. It is a highly appreciated species in reef aquariums. It is generally peaceful but can be territorial with other cleaner shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Moderate lighting and moderate to strong flow are ideal. It feeds on parasites, but also frozen foods and flakes. It needs hiding places and rocks. It can be kept in pairs. Avoid keeping with aggressive fish. Captive breeding is possible but delicate.

##### [Offers' snail](/encyclopedia/astraea-olfersii)
**Astraea olfersii** — Turbinidae · invertebrate
Herbivorous snail highly valued for algae control in reef aquariums. Its thick shell and distinctive patterns make it an aesthetic addition.
Astraea olfersii has a thick conical shell, often adorned with brown and white spiral bands. Adult size reaches about 2-3 cm in diameter. It moves slowly over rocks and glass, grazing on filamentous algae and diatoms. Mostly active at night, it hides in crevices during the day. Its muscular foot allows it to cling firmly even in moderate currents. It is completely harmless to corals and fish. When stressed, it may release a protective mucus.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Maintain temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A well-established aquarium with live rock and natural algae is ideal. A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is recommended for a small group. Diet is primarily herbivorous: it feeds on existing algae, but can be supplemented with dried seaweed (nori). Avoid high nitrate (>20 ppm) and phosphate (>0.1 ppm) levels. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Beware of predators such as pufferfish or crabs. Slow acclimation is necessary to avoid stress.

##### [Phoebe snail](/encyclopedia/astraea-phoebia)
**Astraea phoebia** — Turbinidae · invertebrate
Small marine herbivorous snail, very effective for algae control. Ideal for reef aquariums.
Astraea phoebia has a conical, robust shell, white to cream with brown patterns. Adult size does not exceed 3 cm. It moves slowly on rocks and glass, grazing on filamentous algae and diatoms. It is nocturnal, hiding in crevices during the day. It is completely peaceful and does not harm corals. It can reproduce in aquaria by laying egg capsules. Lifespan is 2-3 years.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 40 L is sufficient. No special lighting required, but moderate light promotes algae growth. Feed with natural algae or algae wafers if needed. Avoid high nitrate (max 20 ppm) and phosphate levels. Compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Beware of predators like pufferfish or crabs.

##### [Astraea snail](/encyclopedia/astraea-tecta)
**Astraea tecta** — Turbinidae · invertebrate
A popular marine herbivorous snail in reef aquariums, valued for its algae-cleaning abilities. Small, hardy, and peaceful.
Astraea tecta has a thick conical shell, often with spiral ridges and tubercles. Its coloration ranges from gray to light brown, sometimes with darker patterns. Adults reach about 2–3 cm in diameter. It is primarily nocturnal, hiding in crevices during the day. Sexual dimorphism is not externally obvious.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 40 L with live rock and sandy substrate. Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It feeds on algae and biofilm; supplement with dried seaweed if needed. Peaceful species compatible with all reef fish and invertebrates. Avoid predators such as crabs or pufferfish. Be cautious with copper-based medications.

##### [Wavy astraea](/encyclopedia/astraea-undosa)
**Astraea undosa** — Turbinidae · invertebrate
Herbivorous marine snail with a wavy shell, excellent algae cleaner.
Astraea undosa is a marine snail from the Turbinidae family. Its thick, conical shell has characteristic wavy ridges. It is highly valued in aquariums for its ability to graze on filamentous algae and diatoms on rocks and glass. Nocturnal, it hides during the day. Hardy and easy to keep.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-26°C, salinity 1.023-1.025. pH 8.1-8.4. Provide live rock with algae. Avoid predators like crabs. May need calcium supplementation for shell growth.

##### [Elegant hermit crab](/encyclopedia/calcinus-elegans)
**Calcinus elegans** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Colorful and active hermit crab, very popular in reef aquariums. It regularly changes shells and helps clean up waste.
Calcinus elegans has bright blue, orange, and white legs and claws, with black eyes on stalks. It reaches up to 4 cm in length (excluding shell). It carries a gastropod shell which it changes as it grows. It is an opportunistic omnivore feeding on algae, detritus, leftover food, and small invertebrates. It is very active and constantly explores the tank. It can be slightly aggressive towards other hermit crabs for shells. It is generally compatible with peaceful fish and corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. Diet: dried algae, herbivore pellets, pieces of shrimp, mussels. A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended for one individual. It needs many empty shells of various sizes to change into. Sandy substrate and rocks are necessary. It can be kept in groups if enough shells are available. Avoid aggressive fish or predatory crabs. It is sensitive to high nitrates. Good oxygenation is important.

##### [Black cerith](/encyclopedia/cerithium-atratum)
**Cerithium atratum** — Cerithiidae · invertebrate
Small detritivorous and herbivorous snail, ideal for cleaning sand and rocks. Its elongated black shell is distinctive.
Cerithium atratum has an elongated, turreted shell, black to dark brown, with marked spirals. It measures 2-3 cm in length. It moves on sand and rocks, ingesting substrate to extract detritus and microalgae. It is mostly active at night, but can be seen during the day. It partially buries itself in sand when disturbed. It is very useful for aerating the substrate. It poses no danger to corals or fish. Reproduction in captivity is possible but rare.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 30 liters is sufficient for a small group. It feeds on detritus, algae, and food leftovers, but can be supplemented with detritivore tablets. Nitrates should stay below 20 ppm, phosphates below 0.1 ppm. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid fish that dig in the sand such as gobies or pufferfish. Slow acclimation is recommended. It can be kept in groups, which encourages natural behavior.

##### [Ivory cerith](/encyclopedia/cerithium-eburneum)
**Cerithium eburneum** — Cerithiidae · invertebrate
Small marine snail very useful for cleaning sand and algae.
The ivory cerith is a small marine snail (2-3 cm) with an elongated white shell. It lives in sandy areas of coral reefs where it feeds on detritus and algae. It is an excellent cleaner for reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain salinity 1.023-1.025 and temperature 22-28°C. Provide a sandy substrate for burrowing. Compatible with peaceful fish and corals.

##### [Cerith snail](/encyclopedia/cerithium-litteratum)
**Cerithium litteratum** — Cerithiidae · invertebrate
The cerith snail is a popular marine herbivore in reef aquariums, valued for its algae-cleaning efficiency. It is hardy, peaceful, and easy to keep.
Cerithium litteratum has an elongated, conical shell with distinct whorls and spiral ridges. Its coloration is variable, often cream with brown or black spots forming zigzag patterns. It reaches an adult size of about 3 cm. It is an active grazer that moves slowly over rocks and sand. There is no visible sexual dimorphism. It is completely peaceful and compatible with most reef inhabitants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 20 liters is sufficient for a small group. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A setup with live rock and a sandy substrate is ideal. It feeds mainly on algae but will also accept algae wafers and leftover food. Avoid copper-based medications as they are toxic to invertebrates. It is sensitive to large salinity swings.

##### [Fly cerith](/encyclopedia/cerithium-muscarum)
**Cerithium muscarum** — Cerithiidae · invertebrate
Small marine detritivore snail, very useful for cleaning substrates and glass. Hardy and easy to keep.
The shell of Cerithium muscarum is elongated, conical, cream to light brown with irregular dark spots. It reaches up to 2.5 cm in length. The body is greyish with a horny operculum. This cerith is an active grazer moving over sand and rocks in search of microalgae and detritus. It has a retractable proboscis to suck up food. Its behavior is peaceful and it does not disturb other tank inhabitants. It is often confused with other Cerithium species.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. It feeds on microalgae, detritus, and leftover fish food. A tank of at least 20 liters is sufficient for a small group. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid predators like pufferfish or aggressive crabs. It needs a sandy substrate and live rock for hiding. No special lighting is required, but moderate light promotes algae growth. It is sensitive to high nitrate (>20 ppm) and phosphate (>0.1 ppm) levels.

##### [Tricolor hermit crab](/encyclopedia/clibanarius-tricolor)
**Clibanarius tricolor** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Small hermit crab with legs striped in blue, red, and yellow, very popular in marine aquariums as an algae cleaner.
Clibanarius tricolor reaches up to 2.5 cm in length (including shell). Its legs are adorned with alternating blue, red, and yellow bands, and its claws are often blue with white tips. The body is soft and asymmetrical, adapted to living inside a shell. It is an active scavenger that moves quickly across the substrate. Males have larger claws than females, but sexual dimorphism is subtle.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 10 gallons (40 L) is recommended for a small group. Water should be maintained at 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Provide a sandy substrate and plenty of empty shells of various sizes to allow shell changes. It is omnivorous, feeding on algae, detritus, and leftover food; it also accepts shrimp pellets and dried seaweed. Generally peaceful but may attack small snails for their shells. Iodine supplementation is needed to support molting.

##### [Striped hermit crab](/encyclopedia/clibanarius-vittatus)
**Clibanarius vittatus** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Striped hermit crab, active omnivore that cleans waste and algae.
The striped hermit crab is a 3-5 cm marine crustacean (without shell) with striped legs. It changes shells as it grows. It is an excellent cleaner that feeds on detritus, algae, and leftover food. Active and appreciated in reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 22-28°C. Provide empty shells of various sizes. Sandy substrate. Compatible with most fish and corals.

##### [Spotted hermit crab](/encyclopedia/dardanus-megistos)
**Dardanus megistos** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Large spotted hermit crab, very decorative but requires a large aquarium. It is active and hardy.
Dardanus megistos has bright red-orange legs and claws with white and black spots. It can reach 10 cm in length (excluding shell). It carries a large gastropod shell, often a conch or strombus. It is an omnivore feeding on algae, detritus, carrion, and small invertebrates. It is very active and can move rocks. It can be aggressive towards other crustaceans and small fish. It needs plenty of space and hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. Diet: algae, meaty pellets, shrimp, mussels, fish pieces. A tank of at least 200 liters is necessary for an adult. It needs large empty shells (10-15 cm) to change into. Sandy substrate and plenty of rocks are essential. It is compatible with medium to large fish, but not with small fish or delicate invertebrates. It may uproot plants. Powerful filtration is required.

##### [Incarnate bumblebee](/encyclopedia/engina-incarnata)
**Engina incarnata** — Buccinidae · invertebrate
Small carnivorous snail with a colorful shell, useful for controlling small prey.
Engina incarnata is a 2-3 cm marine snail with a white shell with brown bands and a pink aperture. It feeds on small invertebrates and can help control small slugs or worms. Caution: it may attack small snails.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 22-28°C. Provide rock hiding places. Do not keep with very small decorative snails.

##### [Bumblebee snail](/encyclopedia/engina-mendicaria)
**Engina mendicaria** — Buccinidae · invertebrate
The bumblebee snail is a small marine gastropod with black and yellow bands, popular in reef aquariums as a scavenger.
Engina mendicaria reaches an adult size of 2 to 3 cm. Its shell is conical, thick, with prominent spiral ridges. The coloration is distinctive: alternating black and yellow bands reminiscent of a bumblebee. The body is cream-white with a long retractable proboscis. It is a nocturnal and secretive snail. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 10 gallons (40 L) is recommended for a small group. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A sandy or rocky substrate with plenty of hiding places is ideal. Omnivorous, it feeds on leftover food, detritus, and small invertebrates; it will also accept frozen meaty foods. Caution: it may prey on small ornamental snails. Generally peaceful but can be competitive for food. Calcium supplementation is beneficial for shell health.

##### [Horse's hoof clam](/encyclopedia/hippopus-hippopus)
**Hippopus hippopus** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
Large thick-shelled clam with a rough, hoof-like shape, often buried in sand. A filter feeder requiring strong lighting.
The horse's hoof clam is a bivalve mollusk of the family Tridacnidae. Its massive shell, reaching up to 30 cm, features radial ribs and variable coloration (brown, green, yellow). It lives buried in sandy substrates of coral reefs, exposing only its mantle. Like other Tridacnidae, it hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae in its tissues, requiring strong lighting. It also feeds by filtering phytoplankton.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: NT
Mature marine aquarium of at least 200 L. Intense lighting (LED or T5) for zooxanthellae. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Maintain high calcium (400-450 ppm) and stable alkalinity (8-12 dKH). Avoid nitrates >10 ppm and phosphates >0.1 ppm. Supplement with phytoplankton if needed. Handle with care as the byssus is fragile.

##### [Porcelain clam](/encyclopedia/hippopus-porcellanus)
**Hippopus porcellanus** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
The porcelain clam is distinguished by its smooth, porcelain-like shell and a mantle often spotted with white and brown.
Hippopus porcellanus is a medium-sized giant clam (up to 30 cm). Its shell is thick, without pronounced ribs, with a smooth and glossy surface. The mantle is usually light brown with white or yellow spots. It lives buried in sand, leaving only its siphon exposed. Like Tridacna, it hosts zooxanthellae but relies more on filtration. It is listed as Near Threatened due to collection for the aquarium trade.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Requires an aquarium with a deep sandy substrate (at least 10 cm) to allow burrowing. Stable water: temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, calcium 400-450 ppm, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Moderate to intense lighting. It is less demanding in light than Tridacna but needs good water quality with nitrates <10 ppm. Avoid burrowing fish or invertebrates that might disturb it.

##### [Casket nassarius](/encyclopedia/nassarius-arcularia)
**Nassarius arcularia** — Nassariidae · invertebrate
Scavenger snail from Indo-Pacific reefs, very efficient at cleaning waste. It buries in sand and emerges quickly at the smell of food.
The shell of Nassarius arcularia is globular, cream with brown spiral bands and nodules. It reaches up to 2.5 cm. The foot is broad and spotted black. It has a long tubular siphon. It is an active scavenger feeding on decaying organic matter. It is often seen in groups on the sand. It is very responsive to food and can emerge from sand in seconds. It is harmless to corals and fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. Diet: pieces of fish, shrimp, meaty pellets. A tank of at least 30 liters is recommended. It needs a fine sandy substrate for burrowing. Compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid predatory fish. It can be kept in groups. It is sensitive to high nitrates and phosphates. Good water flow is appreciated.

##### [Distorted nassarius](/encyclopedia/nassarius-distortus)
**Nassarius distortus** — Nassariidae · invertebrate
Scavenger snail that cleans up food waste and carcasses.
The distorted nassarius is a 2-3 cm marine snail with a brownish spiral shell. It is an active scavenger that quickly detects food and buries itself in the sand. Ideal for keeping an aquarium clean.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 22-28°C. Sandy substrate required. Can be kept in groups. Avoid predatory fish.

##### [Reticulated nassarius](/encyclopedia/nassarius-reticulatus)
**Nassarius reticulatus** — Nassariidae · invertebrate
Very active scavenger snail, buries in sand and emerges to feed. Excellent cleaner of organic waste.
The shell of Nassarius reticulatus is oval-conical, cream to light brown with a network of fine brown reticulated lines. It reaches up to 3 cm. The foot is broad and muscular, light grey with black spots. It has a long thin siphon to detect food odors. It is an opportunistic scavenger feeding on carcasses, leftover food, and small invertebrates. It is very active and can be seen crawling on the sand in search of food. It buries quickly in the sand when disturbed.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. Diet: pieces of fish, shrimp, mussels, meaty pellets. A tank of at least 30 liters is recommended for a small group. It is compatible with peaceful fish and other invertebrates. Avoid fish that eat them (triggerfish, pufferfish). A deep sandy substrate (5-10 cm) is necessary for burrowing. It can be kept in groups. It is sensitive to high nitrates. Efficient filtration is important as it produces waste.

##### [Nassarius snail](/encyclopedia/nassarius-vibex)
**Nassarius vibex** — Nassariidae · invertebrate
The nassarius snail is a marine detritivore highly valued in reef aquariums for cleaning up leftover food and organic waste.
Nassarius vibex typically reaches 2–3 cm in length. Its conical shell features prominent spiral ridges and an oval aperture. Coloration ranges from light brown to cream with darker markings. It has a long siphon used to detect food. This nocturnal animal spends the day buried in sand. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 38L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 10 gallons (38 L) is adequate, but larger is better. A sandy substrate at least 2 inches deep is essential for burrowing. Parameters: temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. This peaceful detritivore feeds on leftover food, carrion, and organic matter. It can be kept in groups. Compatible with all reef fish and invertebrates. Avoid predatory shrimp or fish that may harass it.

##### [Thick brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophiarachna-incrassata)
**Ophiarachna incrassata** — Ophiodermatidae · invertebrate
The thick brittle star is a large predatory brittle star, recognizable by its thick arms and green or brown coloration.
This brittle star has a large central disc and five thick, spiny arms. Its coloration ranges from olive green to dark brown, sometimes with patterns. It is nocturnal and hides in crevices during the day. It is an opportunistic predator that captures small fish and invertebrates. Its arms are fragile and can regenerate. It can reach 20 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is required. Diet should include pieces of fish, shrimp, or mussels. Avoid keeping with very small fish as it may eat them. Low lighting and moderate flow are suitable. Sandy substrate and rocks for hiding are important. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Spiny brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophiocoma-erinaceus)
**Ophiocoma erinaceus** — Ophiocomidae · invertebrate
The spiny brittle star is a fragile starfish with long spiny arms, highly valued in reef aquariums for its scavenging role.
Ophiocoma erinaceus has a central disc up to 2–3 cm in diameter and very long, slender arms that can extend up to 20 cm. The arms are covered with robust, movable spines, giving it its common name. Coloration ranges from dark brown to gray, often with marbled or spotted patterns. It is a nocturnal species that hides during the day and emerges at night to feed. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but sexes are separate. It moves quickly across the substrate using its flexible arms.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 30-gallon (120 L) aquarium is recommended, with a sandy substrate and plenty of live rock hiding spots. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It feeds on detritus, leftover food, and small prey; supplemental meaty foods (mysis, brine shrimp) are beneficial. Compatible with most fish and corals, but may threaten very small shrimp or fish if underfed. Avoid copper-based treatments and sudden salinity changes.

##### [Wendt's brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophiocoma-wendtii)
**Ophiocoma wendtii** — Ophiocomidae · invertebrate
Hardy and active brittle star, ideal for reef aquariums. It feeds on detritus and leftover food.
Wendt's brittle star is a serpentine starfish with a central disc-shaped body and long, slender arms. Its coloration ranges from brown to gray with lighter bands. It is a nocturnal species that hides in rock crevices during the day. It plays an important role in cleaning the substrate by consuming organic waste. In an aquarium, it requires a mature tank with good water flow and plenty of hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Introduce into an established aquarium with sandy substrate and live rock. Avoid strong pumps that could injure the arms. Feed with frozen meaty foods or invertebrate tablets.

##### [Flat brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophioderma-appressum)
**Ophioderma appressum** — Ophiodermatidae · invertebrate
Discreet brittle star with a flattened body, perfect for reef aquariums. It cleans the substrate by consuming detritus.
The flat brittle star is distinguished by its large, flat central disc, often reddish-brown with lighter patterns. Its arms are relatively short and thick. It lives buried in sand or under rocks, emerging only at night to feed. It is a very hardy species that contributes to the biological balance of the aquarium. It accepts a wide variety of food and reproduces easily by fission.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Fine sandy substrate at least 5 cm deep to allow burrowing. Feed with frozen meaty foods or invertebrate pellets. Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Superb brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophiolepis-superba)
**Ophiolepis superba** — Ophiolepididae · invertebrate
The superb brittle star is a delicate starfish with slender arms, highly valued in reef aquariums for its scavenging role.
Ophiolepis superba has a pentagonal central disc 1–2 cm in diameter, covered with fine imbricate scales. Its five very long, slender arms can reach 15 cm in span, with short, regular lateral spines. Coloration is light brown to beige, with darker transverse bands on the arms. It is a nocturnal and secretive species, hiding during the day. Sexual dimorphism is not apparent.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 80 liters is recommended for this brittle star, with a sandy or rocky substrate and plenty of hiding places. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It feeds on detritus, leftover food, and small prey; supplemental feeding with finely chopped meaty foods is beneficial. Compatible with most reef fish and invertebrates, but avoid very small shrimp or fish that might stress it. Be cautious with pumps and filters: arms can get caught.

##### [Suenson's brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophiothrix-suensoni)
**Ophiothrix suensoni** — Ophiotrichidae · invertebrate
Suenson's brittle star is a small filter-feeding and detritivorous brittle star, common in Caribbean reefs.
This brittle star has a small central disc and five thin, spiny arms. Its coloration is variable, often with bands or spots. It is nocturnal and hides in sponges or crevices. It feeds by filtering plankton and picking up detritus. Its arms are very fragile and regenerate easily. It reaches about 10 cm in diameter. It is a peaceful species ideal for reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank size of 50 liters is suitable. It feeds on detritus and plankton, but can be supplemented with filter-feeder foods. Low to moderate lighting and moderate flow are recommended. Sandy substrate and live rock are important. It is compatible with most fish and invertebrates. Captive breeding is possible but rare.

##### [Red-legged hermit crab](/encyclopedia/paguristes-cadenati)
**Paguristes cadenati** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Paguristes cadenati is a small marine hermit crab with bright red legs, highly valued in reef aquariums as a clean-up crew member.
This crustacean reaches up to 3 cm in carapace length, with bright red legs adorned with characteristic white spots. Its eyes are black and its antennae long and slender. It is active and curious, constantly exploring its surroundings. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with males being slightly larger. It regularly changes shells as it grows.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended, with a sandy substrate and plenty of hiding places. Temperature should be kept between 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.023-1.025. It is omnivorous and accepts fish foods, dried algae, and invertebrate pellets. Avoid keeping it with aggressive fish or predators. It can be kept in groups if enough empty shells of various sizes are provided.

##### [Common hermit crab](/encyclopedia/pagurus-bernhardus)
**Pagurus bernhardus** — Paguridae · invertebrate
Large hermit crab from temperate waters, scavenger and cleaner.
The common hermit crab is a marine crustacean that can reach 10 cm (without shell). It lives in the cold waters of the North Atlantic. It feeds on carrion, algae, and small invertebrates. In an aquarium, it requires cool water and suitable shells.
Parameters: Temperature 10-20°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 10-20°C, salinity 1.023-1.025. Provide a large tank with sandy substrate and rocks. Empty shells required. Avoid tropical temperatures.

##### [Crocea clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-crocea)
**Tridacna crocea** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
Small clam with bright colors, often used in nano-reefs.
The crocea clam is the smallest of the common clams, reaching 15 cm. It is very colorful (blue, green, orange). It embeds in rock. It requires intense light and high water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Ideal for small reef aquariums. Strong lighting. Stable water, low nitrates. Diet: phytoplankton. Careful not to move it.

##### [Derasa clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-derasa)
**Tridacna derasa** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
The derasa clam is a large, colorful bivalve highly prized in reef aquariums for its symbiosis with zooxanthellae.
Tridacna derasa is a giant clam species reaching up to 40 cm. Its shell is thick with faint radial ribs. The mantle often displays wavy patterns in shades of green, blue, purple, or brown. Like all Tridacnidae, it hosts symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) that provide most of its nutrition, supplemented by water filtration. It is considered vulnerable due to overexploitation for the aquarium trade and food.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: VU
Maintain very stable water with temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, calcium 400-450 ppm, alkalinity 8-12 dKH, and nitrates <10 ppm. Intense lighting (LED or T5) is essential for the zooxanthellae. Place on a sandy substrate or flat rock at mid-height in the aquarium. Avoid strong direct currents. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations and predators such as angelfish or crustaceans.

##### [Giant clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-gigas)
**Tridacna gigas** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
The largest bivalve in the world, reaching 1.2 m. Threatened by overfishing.
The giant clam is an iconic bivalve mollusk of coral reefs. It can weigh over 200 kg. It lives in symbiosis with zooxanthellae algae, requiring intense light. Its shell is thick and wavy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 1000L, Size 120cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: VU
Requires a very large aquarium (min 1000 L) with strong lighting. Very clean water, low nitrates. Diet: phytoplankton. Careful with flow.

##### [Maxima clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-maxima)
**Tridacna maxima** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
Medium-sized clam, very colorful, popular in reef aquariums.
The maxima clam is a bivalve with bright colors (blue, green, purple). It grows up to 30 cm. It is often embedded in coral. It requires intense light and stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: NT
Reef aquarium with strong lighting. Very clean water, nitrates <5 ppm. Diet: phytoplankton. Watch for parasites.

##### [Fluted clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-squamosa)
**Tridacna squamosa** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
The fluted clam is a large clam with thick, wavy valves. It is very decorative and contributes to water filtration.
Tridacna squamosa is a clam of the family Tridacnidae. It can reach 40 cm. Its shell is thick with scales and undulations. Its mantle is colorful (blue, green, brown) with patterns. It lives attached to rocks. It feeds on phytoplankton and zooplankton through its gills. It has symbiotic zooxanthellae.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 40cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: NT
Requires a reef aquarium of at least 200 liters with intense lighting (for zooxanthellae) and moderate flow. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: liquid phytoplankton, microalgae. Avoid high nitrate and phosphate levels. Handle with care as the byssus is fragile.

##### [Histrio trochus](/encyclopedia/trochus-histrio)
**Trochus histrio** — Trochidae · invertebrate
Modest-sized herbivorous snail, excellent algae cleaner. Its conical shell with flame-like patterns is highly sought after.
Trochus histrio has a slender conical shell, often adorned with brown or red flames on a light background. It reaches 3-4 cm in diameter. It grazes algae on rocks and glass with a powerful radula. Mostly active at night, it can also be seen during the day in calm aquariums. It moves with measured slowness but covers large distances. It is very tolerant of parameter fluctuations. It poses no danger to hard or soft corals. Reproduction in captivity is rare but possible under optimal conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum volume of 40 liters is sufficient for one individual. It feeds on natural algae, but can be supplemented with dried algae. Nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm, phosphates below 0.1 ppm. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid predators such as angelfish or crabs. Slow acclimation is recommended. It can be kept in groups, but sufficient space is needed to avoid food competition.

##### [Spotted trochus](/encyclopedia/trochus-maculatus)
**Trochus maculatus** — Trochidae · invertebrate
Highly effective herbivorous snail for cleaning algae from glass and rocks. Its spotted conical shell is very decorative.
Trochus maculatus has a solid conical shell, cream to brown with irregular dark spots. It typically measures 3-5 cm in diameter. It moves actively over all surfaces, grazing on green algae, brown algae, and diatoms. It is both diurnal and nocturnal, often visible during the day. Its horny operculum allows it to close tightly. It is very hardy and adapts well to established aquariums. It never attacks corals or sessile invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Ideal temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a small group. It feeds mainly on existing algae, but may accept algae tablets or blanched vegetables. Nitrates should stay below 20 ppm and phosphates below 0.1 ppm. It is fully compatible with peaceful fish and corals. Avoid predatory fish such as triggerfish or wrasses. Drip acclimation is advised. It can be kept in groups without aggression.

##### [Trochus snail](/encyclopedia/trochus-niloticus)
**Trochus niloticus** — Trochidae · invertebrate
The Trochus snail is a popular marine herbivore in reef aquariums, valued for its algae-cleaning efficiency. Its robust conical shell with spiral patterns makes it both aesthetic and functional.
Trochus niloticus has a thick conical shell, cream to grayish in color with brown or red spiral bands. Adults reach about 5 cm in diameter. Its operculum is dark brown and horny. It is a slow, peaceful grazer, mostly active at night. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, though females tend to be larger.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 40 L is sufficient for one specimen, but larger (100 L+) provides better stability. Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A rocky setup with grazing surfaces is ideal. Diet: natural microalgae, supplement with dried seaweed if needed. Compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Beware of predators like crabs or angelfish. Avoid copper-based treatments.

##### [Pyramid trochus](/encyclopedia/trochus-pyramis)
**Trochus pyramis** — Trochidae · invertebrate
Large herbivorous snail with a pyramidal shell, very effective for algae control. It is robust and easy to maintain.
Trochus pyramis has a very high conical shell, pyramid-shaped, cream to gray with brown spiral bands. It can reach 8 cm in diameter. It moves slowly but grazes large areas of algae. Active day and night, it is often seen on rocks and substrate. Its operculum is thick and horny. It is very hardy and can survive in less stable conditions. It never attacks corals. Its large size requires a spacious aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended due to its adult size. It feeds on algae, but may accept dried algae or vegetables. Nitrates should be below 20 ppm, phosphates below 0.1 ppm. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid predators that can flip it over. Slow acclimation is necessary. It can be kept alone or in small groups, but space must be sufficient.

##### [Hawaiian trochus](/encyclopedia/trochus-sandwichensis)
**Trochus sandwichensis** — Trochidae · invertebrate
Herbivorous snail with a conical shell, very effective at cleaning algae from glass and rocks.
Trochus sandwichensis is a marine snail from the Trochidae family, native to Hawaii. Its conical, spiraled shell is often patterned. It is diurnal and active, constantly grazing on algae. Very popular in reef aquariums for its efficiency and compatibility with corals. Occasionally reproduces in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026. pH 8.1-8.4. Ensure plenty of algae. Avoid fish that may flip them. May need calcium supplementation.

### Brackish
Source : /encyclopedia/saumatre

#### Fish
Source : /encyclopedia/poissons

##### [Fat sleeper](/encyclopedia/dormitator-maculatus)
**Dormitator maculatus** — Eleotridae · fish
Robust sleeper goby of estuaries, peaceful and easy to keep.
Stocky goby with large head, brownish spotted color. Peaceful, lives on the bottom. Tolerates a wide salinity range.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Brackish tank with hiding spots, sandy substrate. Omnivorous, accepts most foods.

##### [Violet goby](/encyclopedia/gobioides-broussonnetii)
**Gobioides broussonnetii** — Gobiidae · fish
Eel-like elongated goby, lives buried in mud.
Very elongated violet goby with tall dorsal fins. Lives buried in mud, filters the substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank with fine substrate, brackish water. Filters sand, needs clean water.

##### [Barred flagtail](/encyclopedia/kuhlia-mugil)
**Kuhlia mugil** — Kuhliidae · fish
Silver fish with barred tail, active and gregarious of estuaries.
Silver fish with black-barred caudal fin. Gregarious, active, lives in schools in estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Spacious tank, brackish water, moderate current. Omnivorous.

##### [Golden grey mullet](/encyclopedia/liza-aurata)
**Liza aurata** — Mugilidae · fish
Estuary fish forming surface schools, with golden sheen.
Stocky mullet with broad head, silvery flanks marked by a golden spot behind the eye. Schools in estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 12-26°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-25, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 40cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 400 L tank for a school. Brackish (salinity 1.005-1.020). Temperature 12-26°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Omnivore (detritus, algae, plankton).

##### [Mangrove red snapper](/encyclopedia/lutjanus-argentimaculatus)
**Lutjanus argentimaculatus** — Lutjanidae · fish
Predatory mangrove fish, juveniles frequenting brackish estuaries.
Stocky snapper, grey to reddish, with irregular bars when young. Juveniles in mangroves, adults on reefs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-25, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 90cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 500 L tank for adult. Brackish when young (salinity 1.005-1.020) then marine. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Carnivore (fish, crustaceans).

##### [Silver moony](/encyclopedia/monodactylus-argenteus)
**Monodactylus argenteus** · fish
The silver moony is a disc-shaped silver fish from Indo-Pacific estuaries, living in schools.
Monodactylus argenteus reaches 15-25 cm. Its body is very laterally compressed, almost round, with a beautiful silvery-bright color and two black vertical bands in the juvenile stage. It lives in schools in estuaries and mangroves. It tolerates wide salinity variations. It is a peaceful but gregarious fish, best kept in groups.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 12-22, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 300 L tank for a group of 5+. Salinity 1.005-1.020. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Strong filtration. Rocky decor with hardy plants. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, pellets, frozen food. Needs school companions.

##### [African moony](/encyclopedia/monodactylus-sebae)
**Monodactylus sebae** · fish
The African moony is a close relative of the silver moony, endemic to West African estuaries.
Monodactylus sebae reaches 15-25 cm. Very close to M. argenteus, it differs by a darker, almost blackish coloration, with a prominent dorsal fin having elongated filaments. It lives in schools in West African estuaries and mangroves.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 12-22, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Same requirements as M. argenteus. Salinity 1.005-1.020. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Group of 5+ recommended. Omnivorous.

##### [Giant mudskipper](/encyclopedia/periophthalmodon-schlosseri)
**Periophthalmodon schlosseri** — Oxudercidae · fish
Mangrove fish able to live out of water, with powerful jaws.
Large mudskipper with protruding eyes and prehensile pectoral fins. Climbs mangrove roots and hunts out of water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 120L, Size 27cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium tank with muddy emerged zone and brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Strong light and out-of-water zone essential. Solitary or pair.

##### [Atlantic mudskipper](/encyclopedia/periophthalmus-barbarus)
**Periophthalmus barbarus** — Gobiidae · fish
Iconic amphibious fish of mangroves, lives out of water on mudflats.
Amphibious fish that spends most of its time out of water, on mudflats and mangrove roots. Jumps and crawls using its pectoral fins.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium tank with land area and brackish water. Strong light, temperature 24-30°C.

##### [European flounder](/encyclopedia/platichthys-flesus)
**Platichthys flesus** — Pleuronectidae · fish
Flatfish of estuaries, flattened body on sandy bottom.
Flatfish with both eyes on one side, colour varying from spotted brown to pale. Rests on sandy estuarine bottoms.
Parameters: Temperature 8-20°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-20, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 200 L tank with sandy bottom. Brackish (salinity 1.005-1.020). Temperature 8-20°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Carnivore (worms, crustaceans).

##### [Spotted scat](/encyclopedia/scatophagus-argus)
**Scatophagus argus** · fish
The spotted scat is a robust fish from tropical estuaries. It frequents mangroves and tolerates wide salinity variations.
Scatophagus argus reaches 30-38 cm. Its body is laterally compressed, tall and disc-shaped, with a gray-green to silver coloration dotted with dark spots. Juveniles are more colorful than adults. It is a gregarious fish living in schools in estuaries. It feeds on algae, plant matter, and small invertebrates. It periodically sheds its skin. It has venomous spines on its dorsal, ventral, and anal fins.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-25, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 38cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 400 L tank for a group. Salinity 1.005-1.020 (brackish). Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-25. Strong filtration and regular water changes. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, plant matter, pellets. Compatible with other similar-sized brackish species. Beware of venomous spines during maintenance. Fast grower.

##### [Green pufferfish](/encyclopedia/tetraodon-fluviatilis)
**Tetraodon fluviatilis** · fish
The green pufferfish is a dark-green tetraodon living in the brackish and fresh waters of South Asia.
Tetraodon fluviatilis reaches 12-17 cm. Its body is stocky, ovoid, dark green to blackish on the back and flanks with a cream-white belly. It has irregular darker spots on the back. Like other tetraodons, it can inflate when threatened and has a powerful beak that must be worn down regularly.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 17cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Same requirements as T. nigroviridis. Salinity 1.005-1.015 recommended. Minimum 150 L. Very aggressive towards other fish, keep alone or in a large species tank. Hard carnivorous diet (mussels, shrimp, snails).

##### [Green spotted puffer](/encyclopedia/tetraodon-nigroviridis)
**Tetraodon nigroviridis** · fish
The green spotted puffer is a small brackish tetraodon covered with black spots on a yellow-green background, able to inflate when threatened.
Tetraodon nigroviridis reaches 12-17 cm. Its body is stocky, ovoid, bright yellow-green dotted with irregular black spots. The belly is white. It can inflate with water or air when threatened. It is an intelligent, curious fish, but aggressive towards conspecifics. It has a parrot-like beak that grows continuously — it must wear its teeth down on shells or hard food.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 17cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 150 L tank for a single adult. Salinity 1.005-1.015 mandatory for long-term health. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Strong filtration. Decor with hiding spots. Diet: mussels, shrimp, snails, worms. Do not house with slow long-finned fish (will nip).

##### [Spotted archerfish](/encyclopedia/toxotes-chatareus)
**Toxotes chatareus** · fish
The spotted archerfish shares the spectacular hunting technique of the genus Toxotes but is distinguished by a stockier body dotted with dark spots.
Toxotes chatareus reaches 25-40 cm, larger than T. jaculatrix. Its body is stocky, laterally compressed, silver in color with irregular black spots on the flanks. It has the same water-jet hunting technique as its cousin. It lives in groups in South Asian estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 40cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 500 L tank for an adult. Same parameters as T. jaculatrix. Salinity 1.005-1.015, temperature 25-30°C, pH 7.0-8.0. Strong filtration. Carnivorous diet: live insects, shrimp, fish meat.

##### [Banded archerfish](/encyclopedia/toxotes-jaculatrix)
**Toxotes jaculatrix** · fish
The archerfish is famous for its hunting technique: it shoots a precise water jet at insects perched on vegetation to knock them down.
Toxotes jaculatrix reaches 20-30 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, silver to greenish with characteristic black vertical bands on the back. It has a large mouth pointing upward. It lives in small groups in estuaries and hunts at the surface. It can spit a water jet up to 2 meters to capture prey.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 400 L tank for a group, with a large open water surface. Salinity 1.005-1.015. Temperature 25-30°C, pH 7.0-8.0. It is a hunter that prefers live food (insects, small fish). Also accepts shrimp meat, meaty pellets.

#### Plants
Source : /encyclopedia/plantes

##### [Holly mangrove](/encyclopedia/acanthus-ilicifolius)
**Acanthus ilicifolius** — Acanthaceae · plant
Spiny mangrove shrub with purple flowers.
Shrub with spiny leaves and purple flowers, grows in mangrove understorey.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, brackish water. Grows partially submerged.

##### [Golden leather fern](/encyclopedia/acrostichum-aureum)
**Acrostichum aureum** — Pteridaceae · plant
Large upright mangrove fern, salt-tolerant.
Large upright fern with leathery fronds, forming colonies on high mangroves.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong light, brackish water, humid emerged zone.

##### [Black mangrove](/encyclopedia/avicennia-germinans)
**Avicennia germinans** — Acanthaceae · plant
Mangrove with aerial roots, tolerant of high salinity.
Mangrove tree with pneumatophore roots, leathery leaves. Forms dense mangroves on coasts.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 80cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.025). Roots submerged, leaves emersed.

##### [Large-leafed mangrove](/encyclopedia/bruguiera-gymnorhiza)
**Bruguiera gymnorrhiza** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Large mangrove with big leaves and red flowers.
Mangrove tree with large leaves and hanging red flowers. Well-developed stilt roots.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water. Spacious tank, roots submerged.

##### [Yellow mangrove](/encyclopedia/ceriops-tagal)
**Ceriops tagal** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Small mangrove with white flowers, ideal for nano brackish tanks.
Small mangrove tree with white flowers and pointed fruits. Slow growth, suited to small tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water. Can be kept in a reduced tank.

##### [Shoal grass](/encyclopedia/halodule-wrightii)
**Halodule wrightii** — Cymodoceaceae · plant
Seagrass tolerant of variable salinity, ideal for brackish tanks.
Seagrass with fine ribbon-like leaves, forming underwater meadows. Tolerates a wide salinity range.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, sandy substrate, brackish water. Slow growth.

##### [Nipa palm](/encyclopedia/nypa-fruticans)
**Nypa fruticans** — Arecaceae · plant
Mangrove palm with large pinnate leaves, no aerial trunk.
Unique palm without aerial trunk, with large upright pinnate leaves. Grows in muddy estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 24-32°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 120cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water, muddy substrate. Wide, low tank.

##### [Common reed](/encyclopedia/phragmites-australis)
**Phragmites australis** — Poaceae · plant
Tall emergent plant of estuary banks, in dense stands.
Grass with long hollow stems over 2 m, forming dense colonies on banks. Emerged part above brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 12-30°C, pH 6.5-8.5, Salinity 1-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 250cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, humid emerged zone above brackish water. Wide paludarium tank. Very vigorous growth.

##### [Tall stilt mangrove](/encyclopedia/rhizophora-apiculata)
**Rhizophora apiculata** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Mangrove with tall stilt roots and white flowers.
Mangrove with aerial stilt roots, opposite leaves and white flowers.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water. Tall tank, roots submerged.

##### [Red mangrove](/encyclopedia/rhizophora-mangle)
**Rhizophora mangle** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Iconic mangrove tree, ideal for brackish tanks.
Tree with characteristic stilt roots, forming mangroves. In aquaria, grown emersed with roots in brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Roots submerged, leaves emersed.

##### [Widgeongrass](/encyclopedia/ruppia-maritima)
**Ruppia maritima** — Ruppiaceae · plant
Submerged aquatic of brackish estuarine waters, with fine leaves.
Plant with fine ribbon-like leaves and floating adventitious roots. Grows in shallow brackish estuarine water.
Parameters: Temperature 10-28°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 60L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong light,; brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Sandy or muddy substrate. Delicate plant.

##### [Glasswort](/encyclopedia/salicornia-europaea)
**Salicornia europaea** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Halophytic succulent of estuary salt marshes, with green jointed stems.
Annual succulent with fleshy jointed stems, light green to reddish. Colonizes estuarine salt flats.
Parameters: Temperature 12-28°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.01-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, emerged zone flooded by brackish water (salinity 1.010-1.025). Salty muddy substrate. Tolerates partial immersion.

##### [Mangrove apple](/encyclopedia/sonneratia-caseolaris)
**Sonneratia caseolaris** — Lythraceae · plant
Mangrove with showy white flowers, grows in near-fresh water.
Mangrove with edible fruits and showy white flowers with many stamens.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 110cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish to near-fresh water. Spacious tank.

##### [Eelgrass](/encyclopedia/zostera-marina)
**Zostera marina** — Potamogetonaceae · plant
Flowering aquatic plant forming meadows in temperate estuaries.
Submerged flowering plant with long ribbon-like leaves. Forms dense meadows sheltering estuary fauna.
Parameters: Temperature 10-23°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.015-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong light, brackish to marine water (salinity 1.015-1.025). Sandy substrate. Sensitive to water degradation.

#### Invertebrates
Source : /encyclopedia/invertebres

##### [Green crab](/encyclopedia/carcinus-maenas)
**Carcinus maenas** — Carcinidae · invertebrate
Common coastal crab of estuaries, green mottled body, widespread invasive species.
Crab with broad flattened carapace, olive-green with darker spots. Lives in estuaries and rocky coasts, tolerating wide salinity swings.
Parameters: Temperature 10-24°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-22, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 9cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 100 L tank with hides. Brackish (salinity 1.005-1.025). Temperature 10-24°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Omnivore (detritus, shellfish, pellets). Territorial: one per tank or separate hides.

##### [Brown shrimp](/encyclopedia/crangon-crangon)
**Crangon crangon** — Crangonidae · invertebrate
Small estuary shrimp, translucent to brownish, camouflages in sand.
Shrimp 4-8 cm, grey-brown body able to shift tone to match sand. Buries itself in substrate and ambushes prey. Loose schools in estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 8-20°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-20, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 100 L tank with fine sand. Brackish (salinity 1.005-1.020). Temperature 8-20°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Carnivore (worms, small invertebrates, shrimp powder). Sensitive to water quality.

##### [Chinese mitten crab](/encyclopedia/eriocheir-sinensis)
**Eriocheir sinensis** · invertebrate
The Chinese mitten crab is recognizable by its claws covered in dense hair. Invasive species in Europe and North America.
Eriocheir sinensis reaches 5-10 cm of carapace. Its carapace is square, dark brown-green. Its claws (chelipeds) are particularly large and covered with dense bristles giving them a 'mitten' appearance. It is a migratory crab: it lives in fresh or brackish water then descends to the sea to breed. Considered invasive in many regions.
Parameters: Temperature 10-25°C, pH 7-8.5, GH 8-18, Salinity 1-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Minimum 200 L tank with a terrestrial part. Variable salinity depending on stage: fresh-brackish for growth, brackish-salt for breeding. Temperature 10-25°C (cool waters). Opportunistic omnivore: detritus, vegetation, meat, pellets. Strong filtration. Strict quarantine before introduction (invasive species).

##### [Mangrove crab](/encyclopedia/metasesarma-oberon)
**Metasesarma oberon** — Sesarmidae · invertebrate
Small terrestrial crab of mangroves, ideal for brackish paludariums.
Small crab with reddish carapace, lives in mangroves between land and water. Opportunistic omnivore.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium with land area and brackish water. Hiding spots, varied substrate.

##### [Zebra nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-reclinata)
**Neritina reclinata** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Robust nerite snail, excellent algae cleaner in brackish water.
Small snail with striped shell, very effective at cleaning algae. Tolerates brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Brackish water, abundant algae. Compatible with peaceful brackish fish.

##### [Common prawn](/encyclopedia/palaemon-serratus)
**Palaemon serratus** · invertebrate
The common prawn is a large translucent striped Atlantic coastal shrimp, traditionally fished in Europe.
Palaemon serratus reaches 6-11 cm. Its body is translucent with brown-red and sometimes bluish transverse bands. Legs and antennae are long. It lives in seagrass beds and shallow rocky areas, often in small groups. Omnivorous, it feeds on small crustaceans, algae, and detritus.
Parameters: Temperature 12-22°C, pH 7.8-8.4, GH 7-10, Salinity 1.018-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 11cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 80 L tank with rocky decor and hiding spots. Salinity 1.018-1.025 (seawater). Temperature 12-22°C (temperate waters). Compatible with peaceful fish and other invertebrates. Varied diet: brine shrimp, mysis, pellets, blanched vegetables. Sensitive to nitrates, regular water changes.

##### [Fiddler crab](/encyclopedia/uca-pugnax)
**Uca pugnax** — Ocypodidae · invertebrate
Small mangrove crab with one greatly enlarged claw, typical of salt marshes.
Small crab whose male bears one greatly enlarged claw used in display. Digs burrows in mangrove and salt-marsh mud.
Parameters: Temperature 18-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium with muddy emerged zone and brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Strong light, shelter and burrow. Omnivore (detritus, algae, pellets). Solitary or group.

### Estuary

##### [Fat sleeper](/encyclopedia/dormitator-maculatus)
**Dormitator maculatus** — Eleotridae · fish
Robust sleeper goby of estuaries, peaceful and easy to keep.
Stocky goby with large head, brownish spotted color. Peaceful, lives on the bottom. Tolerates a wide salinity range.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Brackish tank with hiding spots, sandy substrate. Omnivorous, accepts most foods.

##### [Violet goby](/encyclopedia/gobioides-broussonnetii)
**Gobioides broussonnetii** — Gobiidae · fish
Eel-like elongated goby, lives buried in mud.
Very elongated violet goby with tall dorsal fins. Lives buried in mud, filters the substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank with fine substrate, brackish water. Filters sand, needs clean water.

##### [Barred flagtail](/encyclopedia/kuhlia-mugil)
**Kuhlia mugil** — Kuhliidae · fish
Silver fish with barred tail, active and gregarious of estuaries.
Silver fish with black-barred caudal fin. Gregarious, active, lives in schools in estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Spacious tank, brackish water, moderate current. Omnivorous.

##### [Golden grey mullet](/encyclopedia/liza-aurata)
**Liza aurata** — Mugilidae · fish
Estuary fish forming surface schools, with golden sheen.
Stocky mullet with broad head, silvery flanks marked by a golden spot behind the eye. Schools in estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 12-26°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-25, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 40cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 400 L tank for a school. Brackish (salinity 1.005-1.020). Temperature 12-26°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Omnivore (detritus, algae, plankton).

##### [African moony](/encyclopedia/monodactylus-sebae)
**Monodactylus sebae** · fish
The African moony is a close relative of the silver moony, endemic to West African estuaries.
Monodactylus sebae reaches 15-25 cm. Very close to M. argenteus, it differs by a darker, almost blackish coloration, with a prominent dorsal fin having elongated filaments. It lives in schools in West African estuaries and mangroves.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 12-22, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Same requirements as M. argenteus. Salinity 1.005-1.020. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Group of 5+ recommended. Omnivorous.

##### [Atlantic mudskipper](/encyclopedia/periophthalmus-barbarus)
**Periophthalmus barbarus** — Gobiidae · fish
Iconic amphibious fish of mangroves, lives out of water on mudflats.
Amphibious fish that spends most of its time out of water, on mudflats and mangrove roots. Jumps and crawls using its pectoral fins.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium tank with land area and brackish water. Strong light, temperature 24-30°C.

##### [European flounder](/encyclopedia/platichthys-flesus)
**Platichthys flesus** — Pleuronectidae · fish
Flatfish of estuaries, flattened body on sandy bottom.
Flatfish with both eyes on one side, colour varying from spotted brown to pale. Rests on sandy estuarine bottoms.
Parameters: Temperature 8-20°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-20, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 200 L tank with sandy bottom. Brackish (salinity 1.005-1.020). Temperature 8-20°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Carnivore (worms, crustaceans).

##### [Green pufferfish](/encyclopedia/tetraodon-fluviatilis)
**Tetraodon fluviatilis** · fish
The green pufferfish is a dark-green tetraodon living in the brackish and fresh waters of South Asia.
Tetraodon fluviatilis reaches 12-17 cm. Its body is stocky, ovoid, dark green to blackish on the back and flanks with a cream-white belly. It has irregular darker spots on the back. Like other tetraodons, it can inflate when threatened and has a powerful beak that must be worn down regularly.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 17cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Same requirements as T. nigroviridis. Salinity 1.005-1.015 recommended. Minimum 150 L. Very aggressive towards other fish, keep alone or in a large species tank. Hard carnivorous diet (mussels, shrimp, snails).

##### [Spotted archerfish](/encyclopedia/toxotes-chatareus)
**Toxotes chatareus** · fish
The spotted archerfish shares the spectacular hunting technique of the genus Toxotes but is distinguished by a stockier body dotted with dark spots.
Toxotes chatareus reaches 25-40 cm, larger than T. jaculatrix. Its body is stocky, laterally compressed, silver in color with irregular black spots on the flanks. It has the same water-jet hunting technique as its cousin. It lives in groups in South Asian estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 40cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 500 L tank for an adult. Same parameters as T. jaculatrix. Salinity 1.005-1.015, temperature 25-30°C, pH 7.0-8.0. Strong filtration. Carnivorous diet: live insects, shrimp, fish meat.

##### [Green crab](/encyclopedia/carcinus-maenas)
**Carcinus maenas** — Carcinidae · invertebrate
Common coastal crab of estuaries, green mottled body, widespread invasive species.
Crab with broad flattened carapace, olive-green with darker spots. Lives in estuaries and rocky coasts, tolerating wide salinity swings.
Parameters: Temperature 10-24°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-22, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 9cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 100 L tank with hides. Brackish (salinity 1.005-1.025). Temperature 10-24°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Omnivore (detritus, shellfish, pellets). Territorial: one per tank or separate hides.

##### [Brown shrimp](/encyclopedia/crangon-crangon)
**Crangon crangon** — Crangonidae · invertebrate
Small estuary shrimp, translucent to brownish, camouflages in sand.
Shrimp 4-8 cm, grey-brown body able to shift tone to match sand. Buries itself in substrate and ambushes prey. Loose schools in estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 8-20°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-20, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 100 L tank with fine sand. Brackish (salinity 1.005-1.020). Temperature 8-20°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Carnivore (worms, small invertebrates, shrimp powder). Sensitive to water quality.

##### [Zebra nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-reclinata)
**Neritina reclinata** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Robust nerite snail, excellent algae cleaner in brackish water.
Small snail with striped shell, very effective at cleaning algae. Tolerates brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Brackish water, abundant algae. Compatible with peaceful brackish fish.

##### [Common prawn](/encyclopedia/palaemon-serratus)
**Palaemon serratus** · invertebrate
The common prawn is a large translucent striped Atlantic coastal shrimp, traditionally fished in Europe.
Palaemon serratus reaches 6-11 cm. Its body is translucent with brown-red and sometimes bluish transverse bands. Legs and antennae are long. It lives in seagrass beds and shallow rocky areas, often in small groups. Omnivorous, it feeds on small crustaceans, algae, and detritus.
Parameters: Temperature 12-22°C, pH 7.8-8.4, GH 7-10, Salinity 1.018-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 11cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 80 L tank with rocky decor and hiding spots. Salinity 1.018-1.025 (seawater). Temperature 12-22°C (temperate waters). Compatible with peaceful fish and other invertebrates. Varied diet: brine shrimp, mysis, pellets, blanched vegetables. Sensitive to nitrates, regular water changes.

##### [Holly mangrove](/encyclopedia/acanthus-ilicifolius)
**Acanthus ilicifolius** — Acanthaceae · plant
Spiny mangrove shrub with purple flowers.
Shrub with spiny leaves and purple flowers, grows in mangrove understorey.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, brackish water. Grows partially submerged.

##### [Black mangrove](/encyclopedia/avicennia-germinans)
**Avicennia germinans** — Acanthaceae · plant
Mangrove with aerial roots, tolerant of high salinity.
Mangrove tree with pneumatophore roots, leathery leaves. Forms dense mangroves on coasts.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 80cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.025). Roots submerged, leaves emersed.

##### [Shoal grass](/encyclopedia/halodule-wrightii)
**Halodule wrightii** — Cymodoceaceae · plant
Seagrass tolerant of variable salinity, ideal for brackish tanks.
Seagrass with fine ribbon-like leaves, forming underwater meadows. Tolerates a wide salinity range.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, sandy substrate, brackish water. Slow growth.

##### [Nipa palm](/encyclopedia/nypa-fruticans)
**Nypa fruticans** — Arecaceae · plant
Mangrove palm with large pinnate leaves, no aerial trunk.
Unique palm without aerial trunk, with large upright pinnate leaves. Grows in muddy estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 24-32°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 120cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water, muddy substrate. Wide, low tank.

##### [Common reed](/encyclopedia/phragmites-australis)
**Phragmites australis** — Poaceae · plant
Tall emergent plant of estuary banks, in dense stands.
Grass with long hollow stems over 2 m, forming dense colonies on banks. Emerged part above brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 12-30°C, pH 6.5-8.5, Salinity 1-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 250cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, humid emerged zone above brackish water. Wide paludarium tank. Very vigorous growth.

##### [Widgeongrass](/encyclopedia/ruppia-maritima)
**Ruppia maritima** — Ruppiaceae · plant
Submerged aquatic of brackish estuarine waters, with fine leaves.
Plant with fine ribbon-like leaves and floating adventitious roots. Grows in shallow brackish estuarine water.
Parameters: Temperature 10-28°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 60L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong light,; brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Sandy or muddy substrate. Delicate plant.

##### [Glasswort](/encyclopedia/salicornia-europaea)
**Salicornia europaea** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Halophytic succulent of estuary salt marshes, with green jointed stems.
Annual succulent with fleshy jointed stems, light green to reddish. Colonizes estuarine salt flats.
Parameters: Temperature 12-28°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.01-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, emerged zone flooded by brackish water (salinity 1.010-1.025). Salty muddy substrate. Tolerates partial immersion.

##### [Mangrove apple](/encyclopedia/sonneratia-caseolaris)
**Sonneratia caseolaris** — Lythraceae · plant
Mangrove with showy white flowers, grows in near-fresh water.
Mangrove with edible fruits and showy white flowers with many stamens.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 110cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish to near-fresh water. Spacious tank.

##### [Eelgrass](/encyclopedia/zostera-marina)
**Zostera marina** — Potamogetonaceae · plant
Flowering aquatic plant forming meadows in temperate estuaries.
Submerged flowering plant with long ribbon-like leaves. Forms dense meadows sheltering estuary fauna.
Parameters: Temperature 10-23°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.015-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong light, brackish to marine water (salinity 1.015-1.025). Sandy substrate. Sensitive to water degradation.

### Caribbean

##### [Fat sleeper](/encyclopedia/dormitator-maculatus)
**Dormitator maculatus** — Eleotridae · fish
Robust sleeper goby of estuaries, peaceful and easy to keep.
Stocky goby with large head, brownish spotted color. Peaceful, lives on the bottom. Tolerates a wide salinity range.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Brackish tank with hiding spots, sandy substrate. Omnivorous, accepts most foods.

##### [Violet goby](/encyclopedia/gobioides-broussonnetii)
**Gobioides broussonnetii** — Gobiidae · fish
Eel-like elongated goby, lives buried in mud.
Very elongated violet goby with tall dorsal fins. Lives buried in mud, filters the substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank with fine substrate, brackish water. Filters sand, needs clean water.

##### [Black mangrove](/encyclopedia/avicennia-germinans)
**Avicennia germinans** — Acanthaceae · plant
Mangrove with aerial roots, tolerant of high salinity.
Mangrove tree with pneumatophore roots, leathery leaves. Forms dense mangroves on coasts.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 80cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.025). Roots submerged, leaves emersed.

##### [Shoal grass](/encyclopedia/halodule-wrightii)
**Halodule wrightii** — Cymodoceaceae · plant
Seagrass tolerant of variable salinity, ideal for brackish tanks.
Seagrass with fine ribbon-like leaves, forming underwater meadows. Tolerates a wide salinity range.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, sandy substrate, brackish water. Slow growth.

##### [Red mangrove](/encyclopedia/rhizophora-mangle)
**Rhizophora mangle** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Iconic mangrove tree, ideal for brackish tanks.
Tree with characteristic stilt roots, forming mangroves. In aquaria, grown emersed with roots in brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Roots submerged, leaves emersed.

##### [Swordtail](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-hellerii)
**Xiphophorus hellerii** — Poeciliidae · fish
The swordtail is an easy ovoviviparous fish, recognizable by the male's caudal sword, very popular in aquariums.
Xiphophorus hellerii reaches 10-14 cm (male with sword). The male has a sword-like extension on the caudal fin. The female is larger and without sword. Wild coloration is olive green with a red lateral stripe. Cultivated varieties are very diverse (red, green, black, marbled). It is an active, peaceful fish, but males can be territorial with each other. It lives in groups. It sometimes jumps.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 L for a group. Water should be hard (GH 10-20), alkaline (pH 7.0-8.0), temperature 24-28°C. Good filtration. Plants to hide fry. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, vegetables, artemia. Prolific. Compatible with other hard water fish (molly, platies). Avoid aggressive species. Males may fight, provide a ratio of 2-3 females per male.

##### [Platy](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-maculatus)
**Xiphophorus maculatus** — Poeciliidae · fish
The platy is a small freshwater fish popular in aquariums, easy to keep and breed.
The platy typically reaches 4-6 cm. It has a robust body and a rounded caudal fin. Males are smaller and have a gonopodium. Many color varieties exist. It is a peaceful and schooling fish. It is ovoviviparous, giving birth to live fry.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
The platy is very easy to keep. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a small group. Ideal temperature 22-26°C, pH 7.0-8.0, moderate hardness. It accepts all types of food: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. It is peaceful and gets along with other similar-sized fish. It prefers a planted tank with open swimming areas. Gentle filtration is sufficient. Regular water changes are important.

##### [Rough filter shrimp](/encyclopedia/atya-scabra)
**Atya scabra** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Freshwater filter-feeding shrimp with a robust, rough body, adapted to fast currents. Feeds by filtering suspended particles.
Atya scabra can reach 5 cm. Its carapace is covered with small spines and granules, hence its name. The anterior legs have highly developed filtering setae. It lives in high-current areas, clinging to rocks. It is a nocturnal species feeding on plankton and organic debris. Reproduction requires a brackish water larval stage. Males are smaller than females. Its peaceful behavior makes it a good inhabitant for a species-specific aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters with strong current (powerhead). Parameters: temperature 22-28 °C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Diet: powdered food, phytoplankton, micro-particles. Peaceful but may be territorial with conspecifics. Keep in groups of 3 or more. Avoid fish that may compete for food. Regular water changes. Moderate difficulty.

##### [Dwarf crayfish](/encyclopedia/cambarellus-diminutus)
**Cambarellus diminutus** — Cambaridae · invertebrate
One of the smallest freshwater crayfish, perfect for nano tanks due to its tiny size and discreet behavior.
Cambarellus diminutus is a dwarf crayfish reaching only 2-3 cm as an adult. Its coloration ranges from light brown to gray with darker patterns. It is very shy and spends most of its time hidden under leaves or in crevices. This peaceful species can coexist with small fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: DD
A tank of at least 20 liters with plenty of hiding spots (rocks, driftwood, plants). Water must be clean and well-oxygenated. Avoid large or aggressive fish. Feed with crustacean pellets, blanched vegetables, and small frozen foods.

##### [Virgin Nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-virginea)
**Neritina virginea** — Neritidae · invertebrate
The Virgin Nerite is a small freshwater snail very popular in aquariums for its algae-cleaning ability.
Neritina virginea has a globular shell of 1-2 cm, variable color (black, brown, green) with dot or stripe patterns. The body is dark gray. It is an active snail that moves on hard surfaces. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm. It does not reproduce in freshwater, as its larvae require brackish water. It is an excellent cleaner for planted tanks. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 22-28°C, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. A minimum tank size of 20 liters is suitable. Sensitive to nitrates (max 30 ppm) and phosphates (max 1 ppm). Good oxygenation is recommended. Diet should include natural algae, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables. It can coexist with peaceful fish and other snails. Avoid snail-eating fish (botias, etc.). It does not require a group, but multiple individuals are beneficial. Reproduction does not occur in freshwater.

##### [Dwarf baby tears](/encyclopedia/hemianthus-callitrichoides)
**Hemianthus callitrichoides** — Linderniaceae · plant
Dwarf baby tears is a highly sought-after foreground plant for creating a dense carpet in aquariums.
This plant has very small round leaves (2-3 mm) on thin stems. It grows quickly and forms a dense carpet if conditions are good. It requires high light and CO2 to thrive. Often used in 'natural' or 'Dutch' style aquariums. It can be planted in small clumps.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Demanding plant. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, low hardness. High light (at least 1W/L). CO2 essential. Liquid fertilizers and nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Regular trimming needed to maintain carpet. Sensitive to algae if balance is off. Suitable for experienced aquarists.

##### [Saint Thomas Mushroom Coral](/encyclopedia/discosoma-sanctithomae)
**Discosoma sanctithomae** — Discosomatidae · coral
The Saint Thomas Mushroom Coral is a solitary or small-group mushroom coral with variable coloration. It is easy to keep in a reef aquarium.
Discosoma sanctithomae forms a fleshy disc, often ruffled at the edges, reaching up to 10 cm in diameter. Its color ranges from brown to green, sometimes with patterns. The mouth is central, surrounded by short tentacles. It attaches to rocks via a foot. It reproduces by division or budding. In aquariums, it can move slowly. It is very hardy and tolerates variable conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Low to moderate light, low to moderate flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1350 ppm. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts small food pieces (brine shrimp, mysis). A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is sufficient. It is peaceful but can be aggressive toward neighboring corals by releasing digestive filaments. Avoid placing it too close to other corals.

##### [Fragile Favia Coral](/encyclopedia/favia-fragum)
**Favia fragum** — Merulinidae · coral
Small LPS coral from the Caribbean, forming encrusting colonies. Easy to keep, ideal for beginners.
Favia fragum is a massive-encrusting coral with small, numerous polyps. Corallites are polygonal, 2-5 mm in diameter. Color varies from brown to olive green, sometimes with lighter centers. It forms flat or domed colonies, reaching 15 cm. Moderate growth. It tolerates low to moderate light and low flow. It is peaceful and hardy. It reproduces by fragmentation and budding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 380 ppm, magnesium 1250 ppm. Low to moderate lighting (PAR 50-100), low flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume 50 liters. Compatible with all reef fish. Easy fragmentation. Very tolerant of nutrients (NO3 up to 20 ppm, PO4 up to 0.2 ppm).

##### [Agaricia brain coral](/encyclopedia/symphyllia-agaricia)
**Symphyllia agaricia** — Mussidae · coral
LPS coral forming massive colonies with sinuous valleys. Valued for its brain-like texture.
Agaricia brain coral is a massive LPS coral with fleshy polyps arranged in sinuous valleys. Color ranges from beige to olive green, sometimes with purple hues. It is relatively hardy and tolerant, but requires stable water and moderate lighting. Can be fed zooplankton.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.0-8.4. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150). Moderate to low flow. Feed zooplankton once a week. Avoid direct contact with other corals.

##### [Corky sea finger](/encyclopedia/briareum-asbestinum)
**Briareum asbestinum** — Briareidae · coral
The corky sea finger is an encrusting gorgonian forming finger-like lobes. It is valued in aquariums for its hardiness and beige to brown coloration.
Briareum asbestinum is a soft coral of the family Briareidae. It appears as thick finger-like lobes, often encrusting on rocks. Its surface is rough and dotted with small retractile polyps. It can reach 30 cm in diameter. This coral is photosynthetic via zooxanthellae, but also captures plankton. It produces chemical defense compounds that can inhibit the growth of nearby corals. Its growth is slow to moderate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Keep this coral in a mature marine aquarium with moderate to intense lighting. Moderate water flow is recommended to prevent debris accumulation. Ideal temperature is 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) levels must be stable. It tolerates slightly nutrient-rich water but prefers nitrates <10 ppm and phosphates <0.1 ppm. Supplemental feeding with phytoplankton or zooplankton is beneficial. Avoid placing it too close to other aggressive soft corals. It propagates easily by fragmentation.

##### [Florida ricordea](/encyclopedia/ricordea-florida)
**Ricordea florida** — Ricordeidae · coral
The Florida ricordea is a small solitary or colony-forming soft coral, popular in reef aquariums for its bright colors and ease of care.
Ricordea florida is a soft coral of the family Ricordeidae, reaching up to 5 cm in diameter per polyp. Its oral disc is covered with short, bulbous tentacles often arranged in concentric rows. Coloration is highly variable: green, blue, orange, pink, or multicolored with contrasting patterns. It occasionally forms small colonies through budding. No obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 20 liters is sufficient for a single polyp, but 40 liters is recommended for a small group. Temperature should be kept between 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, and salinity 1.023–1.025. Moderate lighting and low to moderate flow are ideal. Ricordea florida is photosynthetic but will accept fine foods such as phytoplankton or micro-particles. It is compatible with most reef fish and invertebrates, but sensitive to high nitrate and phosphate levels.

##### [Ricordea mushroom](/encyclopedia/ricordea-sp)
**Ricordea sp.** — Ricordeidae · coral
A brightly colored disc-shaped soft coral, highly popular in reef aquariums.
Ricordea is a soft coral of the family Ricordeidae. It forms colonies of fleshy disc-shaped polyps, often with fluorescent colors. Native to the Caribbean, it attaches to rocks. It is a hardy and easy-to-keep coral.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a reef tank with moderate to intense lighting and low to moderate flow. Avoid high nitrate and phosphate levels. Supplemental feeding of plankton is beneficial.

##### [Brown zoanthid](/encyclopedia/zoanthus-pulchellus)
**Zoanthus pulchellus** — Zoanthidae · coral
Zoanthus pulchellus is a colonial soft coral of the family Zoanthidae, common in Caribbean reefs. It forms mats of brown to green polyps and is popular in reef aquariums for its ease of care.
Polyps of Zoanthus pulchellus are about 0.5 to 1 cm in diameter and are typically brown, sometimes with green or gray hues. The colony forms an encrusting mat on the substrate, with short, fleshy polyps. They have retractable tentacles that extend at night to capture particles. There is no visible sexual dimorphism. In aquariums, they can reproduce quickly by budding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended to maintain a stable colony. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1200-1350 mg/L, dKH 8-12, nitrates <10 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate lighting and low to moderate flow are suitable. They are photosynthetic but can benefit from target feeding with microplankton. Beware of stinging tentacles that can damage neighboring corals.

##### [Green zoanthid](/encyclopedia/zoanthus-sociatus)
**Zoanthus sociatus** — Zoanthidae · coral
Zoanthus sociatus is a colonial soft coral highly prized in reef aquariums for its vibrant green color and ease of care.
Polyps reach up to 2 cm in diameter and are bright green to olive green, sometimes with brown or yellow hues. They form dense mats connected by a common coenenchyme. Tentacles are short and arranged in two circles. This species is photosynthetic via its zooxanthellae and extends polyps during the day. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size: 40 liters. Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.1 mg/L. Lighting moderate to intense, flow moderate. Feeds mainly through photosynthesis but may accept plankton. Beware of stinging tentacles that can damage neighboring corals. Easy to propagate by fragmentation.

##### [Staghorn coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-cervicornis)
**Acropora cervicornis** — Acroporidae · coral
Staghorn coral is an iconic SPS coral of the Caribbean, forming branching colonies.
Acropora cervicornis is a fast-growing hard coral with thin, pointed cylindrical branches. It plays a key role in reef building. In aquariums, it requires intense lighting and strong water flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: CR
Maintain very stable water with high calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels. Avoid temperature fluctuations.

##### [Elkhorn coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-palmata)
**Acropora palmata** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora palmata is an iconic branching coral of the Caribbean, critically endangered.
This coral forms large elkhorn-shaped colonies with thick, rounded branches. Color ranges from light brown to yellow. It grows rapidly in clear, turbulent waters. Its polyps are small and retracted during the day. It plays a key role in reef building. In aquariums, it is very demanding, requiring intense light and strong flow. It is sensitive to bleaching and diseases.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 400L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: CR
Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Very high lighting (LED or metal halide) and strong flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm. Nitrates < 5 ppm, phosphates < 0.05 ppm. Feeds mainly through photosynthesis, but may accept fine plankton. Minimum tank volume 400 liters. Avoid coral-eating fish. Fragile during transport, requires slow acclimation.

##### [Mustard Hill Coral](/encyclopedia/porites-astreoides)
**Porites astreoides** — Poritidae · coral
Massive slow-growing coral forming rounded mounds. Very hardy and suitable for beginner aquariums.
Porites astreoides appears as massive, dome-shaped or encrusting colonies, mustard yellow to brown. Polyps are very small and tightly packed. It is often confused with Porites porites but distinguished by its brighter color. It tolerates a wide range of conditions. It can be used as a structural element in the aquascape. Its slow growth makes it easy to manage.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200). Low to moderate flow. Calcium 380-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1300 ppm. Alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates <20 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Can be fed phytoplankton. Very resistant to diseases. Compatible with most fish. Can be placed on the bottom or mid-tank.

##### [Porites Coral](/encyclopedia/porites-porites)
**Porites porites** — Poritidae · coral
Massive or encrusting coral, very hardy and easy to keep. Slow but robust growth.
Porites porites forms massive, dome-shaped or encrusting colonies with very small polyps. Color ranges from beige to brown, sometimes pale green. It is very tolerant of parameter fluctuations. It can survive in more turbid waters. In aquaria, it is ideal for beginners. It does not require intense lighting. It can be used as a substrate for other corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) is sufficient. Low to moderate flow. Calcium 380-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1300 ppm. Alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates <20 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Can be fed phytoplankton or small particles. Very resistant to diseases. Slow growth, no frequent pruning needed. Compatible with most fish and invertebrates.

##### [Blue chromis](/encyclopedia/chromis-cyanea)
**Chromis cyanea** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small bright blue fish from the Caribbean, forming schools. Highly valued in reef aquariums.
The blue chromis grows up to 12 cm. Its body is bright blue with a darker shade on the back. The fins are blue. It is a peaceful and active fish that swims in schools. It is less territorial than other damselfish. In aquariums, it is hardy and easy to keep. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 200 liters for a school. Omnivorous: plankton, brine shrimp, mysis. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 5. Avoid aggressive fish. Captive breeding possible.

##### [Banded coral shrimp](/encyclopedia/stenopus-hispidus)
**Stenopus hispidus** — Stenopodidae · invertebrate
The banded coral shrimp is easily recognized by its red and white bands and long claws.
Stenopus hispidus, the banded coral shrimp, is a marine shrimp species of the family Stenopodidae. It displays a characteristic red and white banded pattern and long claws. It is often seen in pairs, cleaning fish. Unlike Lysmata, it is more robust and can be aggressive towards other shrimp. It requires a well-established aquarium with hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Provide caves and overhangs. Diet: brine shrimp, mysis, small pieces of fish. Can be kept in pairs. Avoid other similarly sized shrimp.

##### [Offers' snail](/encyclopedia/astraea-olfersii)
**Astraea olfersii** — Turbinidae · invertebrate
Herbivorous snail highly valued for algae control in reef aquariums. Its thick shell and distinctive patterns make it an aesthetic addition.
Astraea olfersii has a thick conical shell, often adorned with brown and white spiral bands. Adult size reaches about 2-3 cm in diameter. It moves slowly over rocks and glass, grazing on filamentous algae and diatoms. Mostly active at night, it hides in crevices during the day. Its muscular foot allows it to cling firmly even in moderate currents. It is completely harmless to corals and fish. When stressed, it may release a protective mucus.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Maintain temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A well-established aquarium with live rock and natural algae is ideal. A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is recommended for a small group. Diet is primarily herbivorous: it feeds on existing algae, but can be supplemented with dried seaweed (nori). Avoid high nitrate (>20 ppm) and phosphate (>0.1 ppm) levels. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Beware of predators such as pufferfish or crabs. Slow acclimation is necessary to avoid stress.

##### [Astraea snail](/encyclopedia/astraea-tecta)
**Astraea tecta** — Turbinidae · invertebrate
A popular marine herbivorous snail in reef aquariums, valued for its algae-cleaning abilities. Small, hardy, and peaceful.
Astraea tecta has a thick conical shell, often with spiral ridges and tubercles. Its coloration ranges from gray to light brown, sometimes with darker patterns. Adults reach about 2–3 cm in diameter. It is primarily nocturnal, hiding in crevices during the day. Sexual dimorphism is not externally obvious.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 40 L with live rock and sandy substrate. Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It feeds on algae and biofilm; supplement with dried seaweed if needed. Peaceful species compatible with all reef fish and invertebrates. Avoid predators such as crabs or pufferfish. Be cautious with copper-based medications.

##### [Cerith snail](/encyclopedia/cerithium-litteratum)
**Cerithium litteratum** — Cerithiidae · invertebrate
The cerith snail is a popular marine herbivore in reef aquariums, valued for its algae-cleaning efficiency. It is hardy, peaceful, and easy to keep.
Cerithium litteratum has an elongated, conical shell with distinct whorls and spiral ridges. Its coloration is variable, often cream with brown or black spots forming zigzag patterns. It reaches an adult size of about 3 cm. It is an active grazer that moves slowly over rocks and sand. There is no visible sexual dimorphism. It is completely peaceful and compatible with most reef inhabitants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 20 liters is sufficient for a small group. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A setup with live rock and a sandy substrate is ideal. It feeds mainly on algae but will also accept algae wafers and leftover food. Avoid copper-based medications as they are toxic to invertebrates. It is sensitive to large salinity swings.

##### [Fly cerith](/encyclopedia/cerithium-muscarum)
**Cerithium muscarum** — Cerithiidae · invertebrate
Small marine detritivore snail, very useful for cleaning substrates and glass. Hardy and easy to keep.
The shell of Cerithium muscarum is elongated, conical, cream to light brown with irregular dark spots. It reaches up to 2.5 cm in length. The body is greyish with a horny operculum. This cerith is an active grazer moving over sand and rocks in search of microalgae and detritus. It has a retractable proboscis to suck up food. Its behavior is peaceful and it does not disturb other tank inhabitants. It is often confused with other Cerithium species.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. It feeds on microalgae, detritus, and leftover fish food. A tank of at least 20 liters is sufficient for a small group. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid predators like pufferfish or aggressive crabs. It needs a sandy substrate and live rock for hiding. No special lighting is required, but moderate light promotes algae growth. It is sensitive to high nitrate (>20 ppm) and phosphate (>0.1 ppm) levels.

##### [Tricolor hermit crab](/encyclopedia/clibanarius-tricolor)
**Clibanarius tricolor** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Small hermit crab with legs striped in blue, red, and yellow, very popular in marine aquariums as an algae cleaner.
Clibanarius tricolor reaches up to 2.5 cm in length (including shell). Its legs are adorned with alternating blue, red, and yellow bands, and its claws are often blue with white tips. The body is soft and asymmetrical, adapted to living inside a shell. It is an active scavenger that moves quickly across the substrate. Males have larger claws than females, but sexual dimorphism is subtle.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 10 gallons (40 L) is recommended for a small group. Water should be maintained at 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Provide a sandy substrate and plenty of empty shells of various sizes to allow shell changes. It is omnivorous, feeding on algae, detritus, and leftover food; it also accepts shrimp pellets and dried seaweed. Generally peaceful but may attack small snails for their shells. Iodine supplementation is needed to support molting.

##### [Striped hermit crab](/encyclopedia/clibanarius-vittatus)
**Clibanarius vittatus** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Striped hermit crab, active omnivore that cleans waste and algae.
The striped hermit crab is a 3-5 cm marine crustacean (without shell) with striped legs. It changes shells as it grows. It is an excellent cleaner that feeds on detritus, algae, and leftover food. Active and appreciated in reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 22-28°C. Provide empty shells of various sizes. Sandy substrate. Compatible with most fish and corals.

##### [Wendt's brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophiocoma-wendtii)
**Ophiocoma wendtii** — Ophiocomidae · invertebrate
Hardy and active brittle star, ideal for reef aquariums. It feeds on detritus and leftover food.
Wendt's brittle star is a serpentine starfish with a central disc-shaped body and long, slender arms. Its coloration ranges from brown to gray with lighter bands. It is a nocturnal species that hides in rock crevices during the day. It plays an important role in cleaning the substrate by consuming organic waste. In an aquarium, it requires a mature tank with good water flow and plenty of hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Introduce into an established aquarium with sandy substrate and live rock. Avoid strong pumps that could injure the arms. Feed with frozen meaty foods or invertebrate tablets.

##### [Red-legged hermit crab](/encyclopedia/paguristes-cadenati)
**Paguristes cadenati** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Paguristes cadenati is a small marine hermit crab with bright red legs, highly valued in reef aquariums as a clean-up crew member.
This crustacean reaches up to 3 cm in carapace length, with bright red legs adorned with characteristic white spots. Its eyes are black and its antennae long and slender. It is active and curious, constantly exploring its surroundings. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with males being slightly larger. It regularly changes shells as it grows.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended, with a sandy substrate and plenty of hiding places. Temperature should be kept between 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.023-1.025. It is omnivorous and accepts fish foods, dried algae, and invertebrate pellets. Avoid keeping it with aggressive fish or predators. It can be kept in groups if enough empty shells of various sizes are provided.

##### [Cactus algae](/encyclopedia/halimeda-opuntia)
**Halimeda opuntia** — Halimedaceae · plant
Segmented calcareous alga, very decorative, contributes to reef structure.
Calcareous alga with articulated cactus-like segments. Fixes calcium, contributes to reef structure.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, stable calcium and alkalinity. Fragile, handle with care.

### Mangrove

##### [Violet goby](/encyclopedia/gobioides-broussonnetii)
**Gobioides broussonnetii** — Gobiidae · fish
Eel-like elongated goby, lives buried in mud.
Very elongated violet goby with tall dorsal fins. Lives buried in mud, filters the substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank with fine substrate, brackish water. Filters sand, needs clean water.

##### [Mangrove red snapper](/encyclopedia/lutjanus-argentimaculatus)
**Lutjanus argentimaculatus** — Lutjanidae · fish
Predatory mangrove fish, juveniles frequenting brackish estuaries.
Stocky snapper, grey to reddish, with irregular bars when young. Juveniles in mangroves, adults on reefs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-25, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 90cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 500 L tank for adult. Brackish when young (salinity 1.005-1.020) then marine. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Carnivore (fish, crustaceans).

##### [Silver moony](/encyclopedia/monodactylus-argenteus)
**Monodactylus argenteus** · fish
The silver moony is a disc-shaped silver fish from Indo-Pacific estuaries, living in schools.
Monodactylus argenteus reaches 15-25 cm. Its body is very laterally compressed, almost round, with a beautiful silvery-bright color and two black vertical bands in the juvenile stage. It lives in schools in estuaries and mangroves. It tolerates wide salinity variations. It is a peaceful but gregarious fish, best kept in groups.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 12-22, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 300 L tank for a group of 5+. Salinity 1.005-1.020. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Strong filtration. Rocky decor with hardy plants. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, pellets, frozen food. Needs school companions.

##### [African moony](/encyclopedia/monodactylus-sebae)
**Monodactylus sebae** · fish
The African moony is a close relative of the silver moony, endemic to West African estuaries.
Monodactylus sebae reaches 15-25 cm. Very close to M. argenteus, it differs by a darker, almost blackish coloration, with a prominent dorsal fin having elongated filaments. It lives in schools in West African estuaries and mangroves.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 12-22, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Same requirements as M. argenteus. Salinity 1.005-1.020. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Group of 5+ recommended. Omnivorous.

##### [Giant mudskipper](/encyclopedia/periophthalmodon-schlosseri)
**Periophthalmodon schlosseri** — Oxudercidae · fish
Mangrove fish able to live out of water, with powerful jaws.
Large mudskipper with protruding eyes and prehensile pectoral fins. Climbs mangrove roots and hunts out of water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 120L, Size 27cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium tank with muddy emerged zone and brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Strong light and out-of-water zone essential. Solitary or pair.

##### [Atlantic mudskipper](/encyclopedia/periophthalmus-barbarus)
**Periophthalmus barbarus** — Gobiidae · fish
Iconic amphibious fish of mangroves, lives out of water on mudflats.
Amphibious fish that spends most of its time out of water, on mudflats and mangrove roots. Jumps and crawls using its pectoral fins.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium tank with land area and brackish water. Strong light, temperature 24-30°C.

##### [Spotted scat](/encyclopedia/scatophagus-argus)
**Scatophagus argus** · fish
The spotted scat is a robust fish from tropical estuaries. It frequents mangroves and tolerates wide salinity variations.
Scatophagus argus reaches 30-38 cm. Its body is laterally compressed, tall and disc-shaped, with a gray-green to silver coloration dotted with dark spots. Juveniles are more colorful than adults. It is a gregarious fish living in schools in estuaries. It feeds on algae, plant matter, and small invertebrates. It periodically sheds its skin. It has venomous spines on its dorsal, ventral, and anal fins.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-25, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 38cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 400 L tank for a group. Salinity 1.005-1.020 (brackish). Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-25. Strong filtration and regular water changes. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, plant matter, pellets. Compatible with other similar-sized brackish species. Beware of venomous spines during maintenance. Fast grower.

##### [Green spotted puffer](/encyclopedia/tetraodon-nigroviridis)
**Tetraodon nigroviridis** · fish
The green spotted puffer is a small brackish tetraodon covered with black spots on a yellow-green background, able to inflate when threatened.
Tetraodon nigroviridis reaches 12-17 cm. Its body is stocky, ovoid, bright yellow-green dotted with irregular black spots. The belly is white. It can inflate with water or air when threatened. It is an intelligent, curious fish, but aggressive towards conspecifics. It has a parrot-like beak that grows continuously — it must wear its teeth down on shells or hard food.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 17cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 150 L tank for a single adult. Salinity 1.005-1.015 mandatory for long-term health. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Strong filtration. Decor with hiding spots. Diet: mussels, shrimp, snails, worms. Do not house with slow long-finned fish (will nip).

##### [Banded archerfish](/encyclopedia/toxotes-jaculatrix)
**Toxotes jaculatrix** · fish
The archerfish is famous for its hunting technique: it shoots a precise water jet at insects perched on vegetation to knock them down.
Toxotes jaculatrix reaches 20-30 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, silver to greenish with characteristic black vertical bands on the back. It has a large mouth pointing upward. It lives in small groups in estuaries and hunts at the surface. It can spit a water jet up to 2 meters to capture prey.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 400 L tank for a group, with a large open water surface. Salinity 1.005-1.015. Temperature 25-30°C, pH 7.0-8.0. It is a hunter that prefers live food (insects, small fish). Also accepts shrimp meat, meaty pellets.

##### [Chinese mitten crab](/encyclopedia/eriocheir-sinensis)
**Eriocheir sinensis** · invertebrate
The Chinese mitten crab is recognizable by its claws covered in dense hair. Invasive species in Europe and North America.
Eriocheir sinensis reaches 5-10 cm of carapace. Its carapace is square, dark brown-green. Its claws (chelipeds) are particularly large and covered with dense bristles giving them a 'mitten' appearance. It is a migratory crab: it lives in fresh or brackish water then descends to the sea to breed. Considered invasive in many regions.
Parameters: Temperature 10-25°C, pH 7-8.5, GH 8-18, Salinity 1-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Minimum 200 L tank with a terrestrial part. Variable salinity depending on stage: fresh-brackish for growth, brackish-salt for breeding. Temperature 10-25°C (cool waters). Opportunistic omnivore: detritus, vegetation, meat, pellets. Strong filtration. Strict quarantine before introduction (invasive species).

##### [Mangrove crab](/encyclopedia/metasesarma-oberon)
**Metasesarma oberon** — Sesarmidae · invertebrate
Small terrestrial crab of mangroves, ideal for brackish paludariums.
Small crab with reddish carapace, lives in mangroves between land and water. Opportunistic omnivore.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium with land area and brackish water. Hiding spots, varied substrate.

##### [Zebra nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-reclinata)
**Neritina reclinata** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Robust nerite snail, excellent algae cleaner in brackish water.
Small snail with striped shell, very effective at cleaning algae. Tolerates brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Brackish water, abundant algae. Compatible with peaceful brackish fish.

##### [Fiddler crab](/encyclopedia/uca-pugnax)
**Uca pugnax** — Ocypodidae · invertebrate
Small mangrove crab with one greatly enlarged claw, typical of salt marshes.
Small crab whose male bears one greatly enlarged claw used in display. Digs burrows in mangrove and salt-marsh mud.
Parameters: Temperature 18-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium with muddy emerged zone and brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Strong light, shelter and burrow. Omnivore (detritus, algae, pellets). Solitary or group.

##### [Holly mangrove](/encyclopedia/acanthus-ilicifolius)
**Acanthus ilicifolius** — Acanthaceae · plant
Spiny mangrove shrub with purple flowers.
Shrub with spiny leaves and purple flowers, grows in mangrove understorey.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, brackish water. Grows partially submerged.

##### [Golden leather fern](/encyclopedia/acrostichum-aureum)
**Acrostichum aureum** — Pteridaceae · plant
Large upright mangrove fern, salt-tolerant.
Large upright fern with leathery fronds, forming colonies on high mangroves.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong light, brackish water, humid emerged zone.

##### [Black mangrove](/encyclopedia/avicennia-germinans)
**Avicennia germinans** — Acanthaceae · plant
Mangrove with aerial roots, tolerant of high salinity.
Mangrove tree with pneumatophore roots, leathery leaves. Forms dense mangroves on coasts.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 80cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.025). Roots submerged, leaves emersed.

##### [Large-leafed mangrove](/encyclopedia/bruguiera-gymnorhiza)
**Bruguiera gymnorrhiza** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Large mangrove with big leaves and red flowers.
Mangrove tree with large leaves and hanging red flowers. Well-developed stilt roots.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water. Spacious tank, roots submerged.

##### [Yellow mangrove](/encyclopedia/ceriops-tagal)
**Ceriops tagal** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Small mangrove with white flowers, ideal for nano brackish tanks.
Small mangrove tree with white flowers and pointed fruits. Slow growth, suited to small tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water. Can be kept in a reduced tank.

##### [Nipa palm](/encyclopedia/nypa-fruticans)
**Nypa fruticans** — Arecaceae · plant
Mangrove palm with large pinnate leaves, no aerial trunk.
Unique palm without aerial trunk, with large upright pinnate leaves. Grows in muddy estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 24-32°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 120cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water, muddy substrate. Wide, low tank.

##### [Tall stilt mangrove](/encyclopedia/rhizophora-apiculata)
**Rhizophora apiculata** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Mangrove with tall stilt roots and white flowers.
Mangrove with aerial stilt roots, opposite leaves and white flowers.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water. Tall tank, roots submerged.

##### [Red mangrove](/encyclopedia/rhizophora-mangle)
**Rhizophora mangle** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Iconic mangrove tree, ideal for brackish tanks.
Tree with characteristic stilt roots, forming mangroves. In aquaria, grown emersed with roots in brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Roots submerged, leaves emersed.

##### [Mangrove apple](/encyclopedia/sonneratia-caseolaris)
**Sonneratia caseolaris** — Lythraceae · plant
Mangrove with showy white flowers, grows in near-fresh water.
Mangrove with edible fruits and showy white flowers with many stamens.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 110cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish to near-fresh water. Spacious tank.

### Indo-Pacific

##### [Barred flagtail](/encyclopedia/kuhlia-mugil)
**Kuhlia mugil** — Kuhliidae · fish
Silver fish with barred tail, active and gregarious of estuaries.
Silver fish with black-barred caudal fin. Gregarious, active, lives in schools in estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Spacious tank, brackish water, moderate current. Omnivorous.

##### [Mangrove red snapper](/encyclopedia/lutjanus-argentimaculatus)
**Lutjanus argentimaculatus** — Lutjanidae · fish
Predatory mangrove fish, juveniles frequenting brackish estuaries.
Stocky snapper, grey to reddish, with irregular bars when young. Juveniles in mangroves, adults on reefs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-25, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 90cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 500 L tank for adult. Brackish when young (salinity 1.005-1.020) then marine. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Carnivore (fish, crustaceans).

##### [Silver moony](/encyclopedia/monodactylus-argenteus)
**Monodactylus argenteus** · fish
The silver moony is a disc-shaped silver fish from Indo-Pacific estuaries, living in schools.
Monodactylus argenteus reaches 15-25 cm. Its body is very laterally compressed, almost round, with a beautiful silvery-bright color and two black vertical bands in the juvenile stage. It lives in schools in estuaries and mangroves. It tolerates wide salinity variations. It is a peaceful but gregarious fish, best kept in groups.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 12-22, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 300 L tank for a group of 5+. Salinity 1.005-1.020. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Strong filtration. Rocky decor with hardy plants. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, pellets, frozen food. Needs school companions.

##### [Giant mudskipper](/encyclopedia/periophthalmodon-schlosseri)
**Periophthalmodon schlosseri** — Oxudercidae · fish
Mangrove fish able to live out of water, with powerful jaws.
Large mudskipper with protruding eyes and prehensile pectoral fins. Climbs mangrove roots and hunts out of water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 120L, Size 27cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium tank with muddy emerged zone and brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Strong light and out-of-water zone essential. Solitary or pair.

##### [Spotted scat](/encyclopedia/scatophagus-argus)
**Scatophagus argus** · fish
The spotted scat is a robust fish from tropical estuaries. It frequents mangroves and tolerates wide salinity variations.
Scatophagus argus reaches 30-38 cm. Its body is laterally compressed, tall and disc-shaped, with a gray-green to silver coloration dotted with dark spots. Juveniles are more colorful than adults. It is a gregarious fish living in schools in estuaries. It feeds on algae, plant matter, and small invertebrates. It periodically sheds its skin. It has venomous spines on its dorsal, ventral, and anal fins.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-25, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 38cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 400 L tank for a group. Salinity 1.005-1.020 (brackish). Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-25. Strong filtration and regular water changes. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, plant matter, pellets. Compatible with other similar-sized brackish species. Beware of venomous spines during maintenance. Fast grower.

##### [Green pufferfish](/encyclopedia/tetraodon-fluviatilis)
**Tetraodon fluviatilis** · fish
The green pufferfish is a dark-green tetraodon living in the brackish and fresh waters of South Asia.
Tetraodon fluviatilis reaches 12-17 cm. Its body is stocky, ovoid, dark green to blackish on the back and flanks with a cream-white belly. It has irregular darker spots on the back. Like other tetraodons, it can inflate when threatened and has a powerful beak that must be worn down regularly.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 17cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Same requirements as T. nigroviridis. Salinity 1.005-1.015 recommended. Minimum 150 L. Very aggressive towards other fish, keep alone or in a large species tank. Hard carnivorous diet (mussels, shrimp, snails).

##### [Green spotted puffer](/encyclopedia/tetraodon-nigroviridis)
**Tetraodon nigroviridis** · fish
The green spotted puffer is a small brackish tetraodon covered with black spots on a yellow-green background, able to inflate when threatened.
Tetraodon nigroviridis reaches 12-17 cm. Its body is stocky, ovoid, bright yellow-green dotted with irregular black spots. The belly is white. It can inflate with water or air when threatened. It is an intelligent, curious fish, but aggressive towards conspecifics. It has a parrot-like beak that grows continuously — it must wear its teeth down on shells or hard food.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 17cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 150 L tank for a single adult. Salinity 1.005-1.015 mandatory for long-term health. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Strong filtration. Decor with hiding spots. Diet: mussels, shrimp, snails, worms. Do not house with slow long-finned fish (will nip).

##### [Mangrove crab](/encyclopedia/metasesarma-oberon)
**Metasesarma oberon** — Sesarmidae · invertebrate
Small terrestrial crab of mangroves, ideal for brackish paludariums.
Small crab with reddish carapace, lives in mangroves between land and water. Opportunistic omnivore.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium with land area and brackish water. Hiding spots, varied substrate.

##### [Holly mangrove](/encyclopedia/acanthus-ilicifolius)
**Acanthus ilicifolius** — Acanthaceae · plant
Spiny mangrove shrub with purple flowers.
Shrub with spiny leaves and purple flowers, grows in mangrove understorey.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, brackish water. Grows partially submerged.

##### [Large-leafed mangrove](/encyclopedia/bruguiera-gymnorhiza)
**Bruguiera gymnorrhiza** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Large mangrove with big leaves and red flowers.
Mangrove tree with large leaves and hanging red flowers. Well-developed stilt roots.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water. Spacious tank, roots submerged.

##### [Yellow mangrove](/encyclopedia/ceriops-tagal)
**Ceriops tagal** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Small mangrove with white flowers, ideal for nano brackish tanks.
Small mangrove tree with white flowers and pointed fruits. Slow growth, suited to small tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water. Can be kept in a reduced tank.

##### [Nipa palm](/encyclopedia/nypa-fruticans)
**Nypa fruticans** — Arecaceae · plant
Mangrove palm with large pinnate leaves, no aerial trunk.
Unique palm without aerial trunk, with large upright pinnate leaves. Grows in muddy estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 24-32°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 120cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water, muddy substrate. Wide, low tank.

##### [Tall stilt mangrove](/encyclopedia/rhizophora-apiculata)
**Rhizophora apiculata** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Mangrove with tall stilt roots and white flowers.
Mangrove with aerial stilt roots, opposite leaves and white flowers.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 100cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water. Tall tank, roots submerged.

##### [Mangrove apple](/encyclopedia/sonneratia-caseolaris)
**Sonneratia caseolaris** — Lythraceae · plant
Mangrove with showy white flowers, grows in near-fresh water.
Mangrove with edible fruits and showy white flowers with many stamens.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1-1.02
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 110cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish to near-fresh water. Spacious tank.

##### [Tiger barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-tetrazona)
**Barbus tetrazona** — Cyprinidae · fish
Very popular barb, recognizable by its vertical black stripes. Active and hardy, but can be aggressive towards long-finned fish.
Tiger barb reaches 7 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, silvery to golden with four vertical black bands. The fins are red in males. It is a lively and gregarious fish that lives in schools. It may show fin-nipping behavior if not kept in a large enough group. It is very hardy and adapts to various conditions. Breeding is possible in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter aquarium is recommended for a group of 8 to 10 individuals. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A setup with robust plants and open swimming space is ideal. Omnivorous, accepts all types of food. Avoid keeping with long-finned or slow fish (gouramis, angelfish). A large group reduces aggression. It is a hardy fish suitable for beginners.

##### [Siamese fighting fish](/encyclopedia/betta-splendens)
**Betta splendens** — Osphronemidae · fish
Labyrinth fish with spectacular fins, known for male aggression towards each other. Very popular in aquaristics.
Betta splendens grows 6-7 cm. Males have long flowing fins in bright colors (red, blue, green, white). Females are smaller and duller. It has a labyrinth organ allowing it to breathe atmospheric air. It is territorial and aggressive towards other males. It can coexist with other peaceful species in a community tank. Breeding involves the male building a bubble nest.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
A minimum 20-liter aquarium for a single male, or 60 liters for a pair with other fish. Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low hardness. A planted setup with hiding spots and low current is ideal. Carnivorous diet: pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp. Do not keep two males together. Compatible with small peaceful fish (tetras, corydoras). Avoid long-finned or aggressive species.

##### [Clown loach](/encyclopedia/botia-macracantha)
**Botia macracantha** — Cobitidae · fish
The clown loach is a colorful and sociable fish, highly appreciated for its active behavior and orange and black patterns.
Botia macracantha can reach 30 cm in aquariums. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed. Coloration is bright orange with three broad vertical black bands. The fins are yellow with black. The mouth is downward-facing with four pairs of barbels. It is a gregarious fish that lives in groups. It is active during the day and likes to dig in the substrate. It can produce audible clicking sounds. It is sensitive to diseases if water quality is poor.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
A tank of at least 300 L is necessary for a group of 5-6 individuals. Water should be well oxygenated, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12, temperature 25-30°C. Moderate current is appreciated. Provide hiding places (rocks, roots, pipes). Omnivorous: give pellets, worms, vegetables. Avoid high nitrates. Sensitive to ich. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Beware of small fish that might be intimidated.

##### [Celestial pearl danio](/encyclopedia/danio-margaritatus)
**Danio margaritatus** — Cyprinidae · fish
The celestial pearl danio is a recently discovered small fish, highly appreciated for its bright colors and peaceful behavior. It is ideal for nano-aquariums.
Danio margaritatus has a stocky body, dark blue with golden spots and red fins. Males are more colorful than females. It reaches up to 2.5 cm. It is a schooling and shy fish that lives in groups. It is very sensitive to water quality. It reproduces by spawning on fine-leaved plants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 L for a school of 8 to 10 individuals. Acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0-7.0), very soft (GH 2-6), temperature 22-26°C. A planted setup with shaded areas and a dark substrate is ideal. They are omnivorous: micro-foods, artemia, daphnia. Avoid strong currents. They are peaceful fish, to be kept with other small calm species. Breeding is possible but delicate.

##### [Red Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/glossolepis-incisus)
**Glossolepis incisus** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Rainbowfish with bright red body in males, very popular in aquariums. Peaceful and active.
Glossolepis incisus can reach up to 15 cm. Adult males are intense red with silvery reflections, while females are gray-silver. The body is deep and laterally compressed. This species is schooling and requires a large swimming space. It is very active and may jump, so a lid is important. Its reproduction is typical of rainbowfish, spawning on plants. It lives about 6-8 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15. Minimum 200 liters for a group of 6. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, worms, brine shrimp. Weekly 20-30% water changes. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Provide a long tank (120 cm) for swimming. Decorate with robust plants and rocks. Avoid territorial species. Strong filtration is recommended.

##### [Pearl gourami](/encyclopedia/trichogaster-leeri)
**Trichogaster leeri** — Osphronemidae · fish
Elegant gourami with a body covered in pearly spots. Peaceful and ideal for community aquariums.
Pearl gourami grows up to 12 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed, brownish-silver with pearly white spots all over. The fins are similarly spotted. Males have an orange-red throat during breeding. It is a calm and shy labyrinth fish. It lives in pairs or small groups. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter aquarium for a pair. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, low hardness. A planted setup with shaded areas and low current is necessary. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, live food. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive or boisterous species. Breeding is possible with a bubble nest.

##### [Three-spot gourami](/encyclopedia/trichogaster-trichopterus)
**Trichogaster trichopterus** — Osphronemidae · fish
Hardy and popular gourami, silvery blue with two black spots. Easy to keep.
Three-spot gourami reaches 15 cm. Its body is oval and laterally compressed, silvery blue with two black spots (one on the flank, one at the tail base). The pelvic fins are transformed into long tactile filaments. It is a labyrinth fish, calm but can be territorial with conspecifics. It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods. Breeding involves a bubble nest.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 120L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 120-liter aquarium for a pair. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A planted setup with open areas and a lid (as it may jump) is recommended. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, pellets, and live food. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive or very small species. Breeding is easy in a specific tank.

##### [Green shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-babaulti)
**Caridina babaulti** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Small freshwater shrimp with green coloration, discreet and effective for algae cleaning.
Caridina babaulti is a 2-3 cm shrimp, olive to bright green, sometimes with stripes. It is very peaceful and shy. It feeds on algae, biofilm, and microorganisms. It lives in groups and breeds in freshwater, but the larvae are planktonic and require very clean water. It is less common in the hobby than Neocaridina.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 3-6, KH 1-3. A planted tank with moss and leaf litter is recommended. Feed with fine foods and vegetables. Breeding is possible if water is stable and rich in microfauna. Avoid predatory fish. Sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Cardinal Shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-dennerli)
**Caridina dennerli** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Cardinal Shrimp is an endemic species from Sulawesi, recognizable by its white spots on a bright red background. It is demanding in terms of water parameters.
This shrimp reaches 2-3 cm. Its body is bright red with small white spots arranged regularly, resembling a cardinal's robe. Legs are white. The rostrum is short. It lives in the hard, alkaline waters of Lake Matano. Its behavior is peaceful but sensitive to stress. It feeds mainly on biofilm and microalgae. Reproduction is difficult in captivity, requiring very stable conditions. Females carry few eggs (10-20) and the incubation period is long.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 6-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Critical parameters: temperature 26-30 °C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 6-10, KH 3-6. A minimum tank size of 40 liters is required. Specialized diet: biofilm, shrimp powders, mineral supplements. Very stable water, small and frequent water changes (10% weekly). Gentle filtration, no strong current. Inert substrate or sand. Avoid any fish. Reproduction is delicate, requires slow acclimation. Water that is too soft or acidic is lethal.

##### [Parepare Shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-pareparensis)
**Caridina pareparensis** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Parepare Shrimp is an uncommon species, brown-green with patterns. It is adaptable but prefers slightly hard water.
This shrimp reaches 2-3 cm. Its coloration is brown-green with lighter spots and sometimes a clear dorsal line. The rostrum is medium length. Legs are slender. It lives in rivers of Sulawesi. Its behavior is peaceful and shy, often hiding among plants. It feeds on algae, detritus, and microorganisms. Reproduction is moderate; females carry 20-40 eggs. Juveniles are robust.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28 °C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. Minimum tank size 30 liters. Omnivorous, accepts shrimp foods, vegetables, and algae. Compatible with peaceful fish. A planted tank with hiding places is ideal. Gentle to moderate filtration. Regular water changes (20% weekly). Reproduction is possible without special intervention if parameters are stable.

##### [Sulawesi Shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-simoni)
**Caridina simoni** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Sulawesi Shrimp is an endemic species with variable colors, often orange or red. It requires hard, alkaline water.
This shrimp reaches 2-3 cm. Its coloration can be orange, red, or brown, sometimes with spots or bands. The body is slightly translucent. Antennae are long. It lives in mineral-rich waters of Sulawesi lakes. Its behavior is peaceful and active, constantly grazing surfaces. It feeds on biofilm, algae, and microorganisms. Reproduction is moderately difficult; females carry 15-30 eggs. Juveniles grow slowly.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 6-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 26-30 °C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 6-10, KH 3-6. Minimum tank size 30 liters. Diet: biofilm, powders, blanched vegetables. Very stable water, moderate water changes (15% weekly). Gentle filtration, low flow. Neutral substrate or sand. Compatible with other Sulawesi shrimp, but avoid fish. Reproduction is possible if parameters are stable. Water that is too soft causes molting problems.

##### [Typus shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-typus)
**Caridina typus** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Very widespread freshwater shrimp in the Indo-Pacific, translucent brownish color. Easy to keep and adaptable.
Caridina typus reaches about 3 cm. Its body is light brown to grayish with fine longitudinal lines. The legs are long and thin, adapted for walking on the substrate. It is an omnivorous species feeding on detritus, algae and small invertebrates. It lives in groups in calm areas of rivers. Reproduction is oviparous, females carry eggs for 3-4 weeks. It tolerates a wide range of parameters, making it an ideal species for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 20 liters with gentle filtration. Parameters: temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, vegetables, biofilm. Peaceful species, compatible with other shrimp and small fish. Avoid carnivorous fish. Enjoys plants and hiding places. Weekly water changes of 10-20%.

##### [Olive nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-pulligera)
**Neritina pulligera** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail with a solid olive shell, effective at cleaning algae and deposits.
Neritina pulligera is a 2-3 cm snail with a smooth shell, olive to dark brown, sometimes with spiral lines. It is very active and grazes algae on all surfaces. Like other nerites, it does not reproduce in freshwater. It is hardy and easy to keep, but may escape if the tank is not covered.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to N. natalensis: temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 5-15. A tank with natural algae is preferable. Feed with vegetables and calcium supplements. Beware of fish that attack tentacles. It can live in groups without issues.

##### [Horned Nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-semiconica)
**Neritina semiconica** — Neritidae · invertebrate
The Horned Nerite is a freshwater snail recognizable by its small horns on the shell, excellent algae cleaner.
Neritina semiconica has a shell of 1-2 cm with horn-like protrusions on the back. Color varies from brown to black with light spots. The body is gray. It is active and moves on surfaces. It feeds on algae and biofilm. It does not reproduce in freshwater. It is a hardy and easy snail. It is peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful species.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 22-28°C, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Tolerates a wide range. Nitrates max 30 ppm, phosphates max 1 ppm. Diet: algae, wafers, vegetables. Compatible with most fish. Avoid predators. No reproduction in freshwater. Can be kept alone or in groups.

##### [Golden Rabbit Snail](/encyclopedia/tylomelania-gemmifera)
**Tylomelania gemmifera** — Pachychilidae · invertebrate
The Golden Rabbit Snail is a freshwater snail from Sulawesi, prized for its elongated golden-yellow shell. It is viviparous and requires hard, alkaline water.
The shell of Tylomelania gemmifera is elongated, conical, golden-yellow to light brown, with spiral striae. It can reach 6-8 cm in length. The operculum is horny and allows closing the opening. It is a viviparous species: young are born fully formed. It moves slowly on the substrate and rocks. It feeds on algae, biofilm, and fish food. It is sensitive to water quality and prefers well-oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Parameters: temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 5-10. Minimum tank 40 liters, preferably with sandy substrate and rocks. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, fish pellets, algae wafers. Peaceful species, compatible with calm fish (rasboras, small cichlids). Avoid aggressive or digging fish. Reproduction is slow (one to two young per month). Good water maintenance is crucial.

##### [Orange Rabbit Snail](/encyclopedia/tylomelania-towutica)
**Tylomelania towutica** — Pachychilidae · invertebrate
The Orange Rabbit Snail is a freshwater snail from Sulawesi, recognizable by its bright orange shell. Like other Tylomelania, it is viviparous and requires hard water.
The shell of Tylomelania towutica is elongated, conical, orange to reddish, with spiral striae. It measures 5-7 cm in length. The operculum is horny. It is a viviparous species giving birth to fully formed young. It feeds on algae, biofilm, and leftover food. It is more active at night. It needs stable, hard, alkaline water. Its bright color makes it a choice subject for Sulawesi biotope aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Parameters identical to T. gemmifera: temperature 26-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 5-10. Minimum tank 40 liters with sandy substrate. Diet: algae, vegetables, pellets. Peaceful, compatible with calm fish. Avoid predators. Slow reproduction. Clean, well-oxygenated water is essential. Add limestone rocks to stabilize pH.

##### [Java fern](/encyclopedia/microsorum-pteropus)
**Microsorum pteropus** — Polypodiaceae · plant
Java fern is a very hardy and easy aquarium plant, suitable for all levels.
This fern has dark green, leathery leaves of variable shape (lanceolate to lobed). It can reach 20-30 cm. It grows from a creeping rhizome. Leaves can produce plantlets on their edges. It should not be planted in substrate. It prefers moderate light. Often used as background or midground plant.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy to maintain. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. Low to medium light. No CO2 needed. Attach rhizome to decor. Plantlets can be detached and replanted. Compatible with most fish. Watch for algae if light is too strong.

##### [Echinata coral](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-echinata)
**Acanthastrea echinata** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Acanthastrea echinata is a hardy and colorful LPS coral, popular in reef aquariums for its large fleshy polyps and wide range of colors.
This coral forms massive or encrusting colonies up to 30 cm. Polyps are large, fleshy, with prominent septa. Coloration is highly variable: green, red, orange, purple, often with contrasting patterns. It possesses sweeper tentacles that extend at night. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting and medium flow are suitable. It is photosynthetic but benefits from targeted feeding (brine shrimp, mysis). Beware of sweeper tentacles: space at least 15 cm from other corals. Good water quality (nitrate <10 ppm, phosphate <0.1 ppm) is essential.

##### [Acan coral](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-hillae)
**Acanthastrea hillae** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Massive or encrusting LPS coral, highly colorful, popular in reef aquariums.
Acanthastrea hillae forms massive or encrusting colonies with fleshy polyps. Colors range from green to red, blue and purple. Each polyp has a central mouth surrounded by short tentacles. It is an aggressive coral that can extend mesenterial filaments to attack neighbors. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts meaty foods. Growth is moderate. It is highly prized for its bright colors and hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Feed meaty foods (mysis, brine shrimp) 1-2 times per week. Nitrate levels should be <10 ppm, phosphate <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1200-1350 mg/L. Avoid placing too close to other corals as it can sting. Stable water parameters are essential.

##### [Ishigaki Acan](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-ishigakiensis)
**Acanthastrea ishigakiensis** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Rare LPS coral in the hobby, originating from Japanese waters, with bright colors.
Acanthastrea ishigakiensis forms encrusting or massive colonies of modest size. Polyps are fleshy and often green, orange or pink. It is less aggressive than other Acanthastrea. Growth is slow. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts fine prey. This species is sought after for its rarity and pastel hues.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters identical to other Acanthastrea: 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank 100 liters. Feed fine meaty foods 1-2 times per week. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450, magnesium 1200-1350. Pay attention to parameter stability as this species is more delicate. Avoid sudden changes.

##### [Subechinate Acan](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-subechinata)
**Acanthastrea subechinata** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Encrusting LPS coral with distinctive polyps, less common than Acanthastrea hillae.
Acanthastrea subechinata forms encrusting colonies with well-separated polyps. Colors are often bright: green, orange, red. Polyps have a central mouth and short tentacles. This coral is moderately aggressive. It feeds through photosynthesis and prey capture. Growth is slow to moderate. It is valued for its unique texture and colors.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to A. hillae: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank 100 liters. Feed meaty foods 1-2 times per week. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450, magnesium 1200-1350. Avoid contact with other corals. Good water flow around the coral is beneficial.

##### [Trumpet Coral](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-curvata)
**Caulastrea curvata** — Merulinidae · coral
LPS coral forming colonies of elongated tubular polyps. Easy to maintain and propagate.
Caulastrea curvata is characterized by curved tubular polyps, often green or brown, with flared tips. Colonies are small to medium, reaching 15 cm. Polyps are connected by a common coenosarc. It is not very aggressive and tolerates other corals well. It feeds on plankton and suspended particles. Growth is moderate. It is ideal for LPS beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Feeding: plankton, phytoplankton, particles. Compatible with most fish and corals. Easy propagation by fragmentation. Tolerates moderate variations.

##### [Spiny candy cane](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-echinulata)
**Caulastrea echinulata** — Faviidae · coral
LPS coral forming colonies of tubular polyps with starry tips, reminiscent of candy canes.
Caulastrea echinulata appears as small encrusting or massive colonies, with elongated polyps and spiny septa. Colors range from green to brown, often with contrasting centers. It is undemanding and tolerates varied conditions, making it a good choice for reef beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Place in moderate lighting and low to moderate flow. It feeds mainly by photosynthesis but appreciates zooplankton supplements. Watch for filamentous algae that may overgrow it.

##### [Candy cane coral](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-furcata)
**Caulastrea furcata** — Faviidae · coral
Candy cane coral (Caulastrea furcata) is a hardy LPS coral with fleshy polyps, often green or brown with fluorescent centers. Easy to keep, it is suitable for beginner reef aquarists.
Caulastrea furcata forms phaceloid colonies where each polyp is separated by a calcified stalk. Polyps reach up to 2-3 cm in diameter and are fleshy, with well-defined septa. Coloration ranges from green to brown, with centers often fluorescent green or bluish. At night, it extends long stinging tentacles to capture prey. There is no apparent sexual dimorphism. It is a moderate-growing species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80-liter tank is recommended for a small frag. Maintain temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 mg/L, magnesium >1300 mg/L, and KH 8-12 dKH. Lighting should be moderate (PAR 100-200) and flow low to moderate. Feed planktonic foods or micro-particles 1-2 times per week. Beware of nocturnal stinging tentacles: space at least 10 cm from other corals. Easy to frag.

##### [Sinuous Trumpet Coral](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-sinuata)
**Caulastrea sinuata** — Merulinidae · coral
LPS coral with sinuous tubular polyps, forming dense colonies. Easy to care for.
Caulastrea sinuata is distinguished by its wavy, sinuous tubular polyps, often green or brown. Colonies can reach 20 cm. Polyps are longer than those of Caulastrea curvata. It is not very aggressive and grows well in aquariums. It feeds on plankton and small particles. Growth is moderate. It is hardy and suitable for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Feeding: plankton, phytoplankton. Compatible with most fish and corals. Easy propagation by fragmentation. Tolerates slightly variable conditions.

##### [Swollen Trumpet Coral](/encyclopedia/caulastrea-tumida)
**Caulastrea tumida** — Merulinidae · coral
LPS coral with swollen tubular polyps, forming compact colonies. Easy to maintain.
Caulastrea tumida is characterized by short, swollen tubular polyps, giving a puffy appearance. Colonies are dense and reach 15 cm. Color varies from green to brown. It is less aggressive than other LPS. It feeds on plankton and particles. Growth is slow to moderate. It is very hardy and tolerates less stable water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Feeding: plankton, phytoplankton. Compatible with most fish and corals. Easy propagation by fragmentation. Ideal for beginners.

##### [Vortex anemone](/encyclopedia/cryptodendrum-adhaesivum)
**Cryptodendrum adhaesivum** — Thalassianthidae · coral
Medium-sized anemone with short, adhesive tentacles forming a collar. Less common in aquaria but highly decorative.
Cryptodendrum adhaesivum has an oral disc of 15-20 cm, with short, branched, highly adhesive tentacles. Coloration ranges from brown to green, sometimes with white spots. It attaches to rocks or coral rubble. It is solitary and moderately aggressive. It can host certain clownfish such as Amphiprion clarkii. Its sting is stronger than that of other common anemones.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting, low to moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 150 L. Feed small pieces of fish or shrimp 1-2 times per week. Avoid strong currents. Sensitive to nitrates (max 10 ppm). Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. Compatible with clownfish and peaceful fish. Handle with care as tentacles are very sticky.

##### [Coin Mushroom Coral](/encyclopedia/discosoma-nummiforme)
**Discosoma nummiforme** — Discosomatidae · coral
The Coin Mushroom Coral is a flat, circular mushroom coral resembling a coin. It is very hardy and easy to maintain.
Discosoma nummiforme has a perfectly round disc, often with slightly wavy edges. Its color is usually brown, gray, or green, sometimes with spots. The disc can reach 8 cm in diameter. The mouth is central and small. It attaches firmly to rocks. It reproduces by division. In aquariums, it often remains stationary. It tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters similar to Discosoma sanctithomae: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Low to moderate light, low flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1350 ppm. It feeds through photosynthesis and accepts meaty foods. A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is advised. It is peaceful but may release digestive filaments. Avoid strong currents. It is sensitive to high nitrates (>20 ppm).

##### [Hammer coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-ancora)
**Euphyllia ancora** — Euphylliidae · coral
Hammer coral is a popular LPS in reef aquariums, recognizable by its hammer- or anchor-shaped polyps. It is photosynthetic but can also capture prey.
Euphyllia ancora forms massive or dome-shaped colonies, with fleshy polyps ending in hammer- or anchor-shaped tentacles (sometimes T-shaped or anchor-like). Color ranges from green to brown, often with fluorescent tips (green, blue, purple). Polyps can reach up to 5 cm in length. The colony can grow to 30 cm in diameter. It possesses stinging sweeper tentacles that extend at night to defend its space. No visible sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter tank is recommended for a small frag, but an adult colony needs 200 liters or more. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow. It is sensitive to parameter swings, especially stable alkalinity (8-12 dKH). It can be fed small prey (brine shrimp, mysis) once or twice a week. Beware of stinging sweeper tentacles: leave at least 15 cm of space from other corals. Avoid fish that nip at polyps (butterflyfish, angelfish).

##### [Grape Coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-cristata)
**Euphyllia cristata** — Euphylliidae · coral
LPS coral with large fleshy polyps resembling grapes. Requires stable water and moderate lighting.
Euphyllia cristata forms massive colonies with swollen, rounded polyps, often green or brown. Polyps can reach 5 cm in diameter. It has short, puffy tentacles. It is an aggressive coral that can extend stinging tentacles at night. It feeds on medium-sized prey like brine shrimp. Growth is slow. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1300-1400 mg/L. Moderate lighting, low to moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Feeding: brine shrimp, mysis, small fish. Compatible with reef fish, but avoid nearby corals. Propagation by fragmentation. Keep water very clean.

##### [Anchor coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-divisa)
**Euphyllia divisa** — Euphylliidae · coral
Euphyllia divisa is a large polyp stony coral, recognizable by its anchor-shaped tentacles. It is popular in reef aquariums for its beauty and relative hardiness.
Euphyllia divisa forms massive or encrusting colonies with fleshy polyps. The tentacles are long, ending in an anchor- or club-shaped tip, often green, brown, or gray with lighter tips. The colony can reach 30 cm in diameter. It is an aggressive coral that extends stinging sweeper tentacles at night to defend its space. No visible sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for a single specimen. Ideal parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <10 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate to high lighting and moderate flow are suitable. It is photosynthetic but benefits from targeted feeding of small prey (brine shrimp, mysis). Beware of stinging tentacles: provide at least 15 cm spacing from other corals.

##### [Torch coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-glabrescens)
**Euphyllia glabrescens** — Euphylliidae · coral
Popular LPS coral in reef aquariums, recognized by its long fleshy tentacles ending in colorful knobs.
Euphyllia glabrescens forms massive or branching colonies up to 30 cm. Polyps are large and fleshy, with long flexible tentacles ending in round knobs that are often fluorescent (green, pink, purple). Base color ranges from brown to green. At night, longer stinging sweeper tentacles extend to capture prey. Sexual dimorphism is absent, but colonies are gonochoric.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Tank at least 100 L, stable reef parameters. Low to moderate lighting, moderate flow. Keep at least 15 cm away from other corals due to stinging sweeper tentacles. Feed small meaty foods (brine shrimp, mysis) 1-2 times per week. Avoid sudden salinity and temperature swings. Susceptible to brown jelly disease if water is too nutrient-rich.

##### [Branching hammer coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-paradivisa)
**Euphyllia paradivisa** — Euphylliidae · coral
LPS coral with fleshy polyps forming hammer-shaped branches. Popular in reef aquariums.
The branching hammer coral is a spectacular LPS coral with elongated polyps ending in a hammer-shaped tip. Colors range from green to brown, sometimes with fluorescent tips. It requires moderate lighting and moderate flow. It can be aggressive towards neighboring corals with its stinging tentacles.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain stable water with temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.0-8.4. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150). Moderate flow. Feed zooplankton 1-2 times per week. Avoid contact with other corals.

##### [Favia favus Coral](/encyclopedia/favia-favus)
**Favia favus** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive LPS coral with honeycomb-like corallites. Common and hardy species.
Favia favus forms massive, hemispherical or encrusting colonies. Corallites are polygonal, tightly packed, 3-6 mm, with well-developed septa. Color is usually brown, green or gray, sometimes with colored centers. It can reach 30 cm. Slow growth. It prefers moderate light and moderate flow. It is peaceful and hardy. It is often used in reef aquariums for its robustness.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400 ppm, magnesium 1300 ppm. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150), moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, appreciates zooplankton. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Compatible with most reef fish. Easy fragmentation. Tolerant of moderate nutrients (NO3 < 15 ppm, PO4 < 0.1 ppm).

##### [Matthai's Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-matthaii)
**Favia matthaii** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive or encrusting coral, often brown or green, common on reefs.
Favia matthaii forms massive or encrusting colonies, sometimes dome-shaped. Polyps are large and fleshy with short tentacles. Color ranges from brown to green, sometimes with purple hues. It is often confused with Favia pallida but differs by finer septa. It is a hardy species tolerating variable conditions. Growth is slow to moderate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis (zooxanthellae), plankton, microalgae, liquid food. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 2/5.

##### [Pale Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-pallida)
**Favia pallida** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive pale coral, often beige or cream, very common on reefs.
Favia pallida forms massive, sometimes encrusting colonies of medium size. Polyps are small and tightly packed with short tentacles. Color is usually beige, cream or light brown, sometimes with greenish hues. Septa are well developed and regular. It is a very hardy species, suitable for beginner aquariums. Growth is slow but steady.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 12cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis, plankton, microalgae, liquid food. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Compatibility: peaceful, tolerates other corals. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 1/5.

##### [Round Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-rotundata)
**Favia rotundata** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive coral with rounded shape, often brown or green, common in shallow reefs.
Favia rotundata is characterized by massive, rounded colonies, sometimes dome-shaped. Polyps are medium-sized with short, thick tentacles. Color ranges from brown to olive green, sometimes with lighter patches. Septa are thick and well spaced. It is a robust species that tolerates slightly turbid conditions. Growth is slow, forming solid structures.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 18cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis, plankton, microalgae. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Compatibility: peaceful, can be kept with other LPS. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 2/5.

##### [Superb Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-speciosa)
**Favia speciosa** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive coral with bright colors, often green or purple, highly prized in aquaria.
Favia speciosa forms massive or encrusting colonies, sometimes irregular domes. Polyps are large and fleshy with long, colorful tentacles. Color is highly variable: bright green, purple, brown, sometimes with contrasting centers. Septa are fine and numerous. It is a spectacular species but sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Growth is moderate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate to high light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis, plankton, microalgae, liquid food. Minimum tank volume 80 L. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 3/5.

##### [Starry Favia coral](/encyclopedia/favia-stelligera)
**Favia stelligera** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive coral with small star-shaped polyps, often brown or gray, very hardy.
Favia stelligera forms massive, often encrusting or dome-shaped colonies. Polyps are small and very numerous, giving a starry appearance. Color is usually brown, gray or beige, sometimes with greenish hues. Septa are well marked and radiating. It is an extremely hardy species, ideal for beginners. Growth is slow but continuous.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, moderate light, moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthesis, plankton, microalgae. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Compatibility: very peaceful, tolerates a wide range of conditions. Propagation by fragmentation. Difficulty 1/5.

##### [Hidden Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-abdita)
**Favites abdita** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites abdita is a massive LPS coral forming hemispherical colonies. It is valued for its hardiness and variable coloration.
This coral forms cerioid to subplocoid colonies with polygonal corallites 5–10 mm in diameter. Septa are regular and walls are thick. Coloration ranges from brown to green, sometimes with purple or red hues. Polyps are retractile and extend at night to capture prey. It is often confused with other Favites species. Growth is slow to moderate. It can reach 30 cm in diameter in aquaria.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow are recommended. Nitrates should stay below 10 ppm and phosphates below 0.1 ppm. Minimum calcium 400 ppm and magnesium 1200 ppm are required. It can be fed phytoplankton and zooplankton 1-2 times per week. A minimum tank volume of 100 liters is advised. Avoid overly aggressive fish or invertebrates that may damage the polyps.

##### [Acute-neck Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-acuticollis)
**Favites acuticollis** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites acuticollis is distinguished by its sharp-walled corallites and bright coloration. It is a hardy LPS coral for experienced aquarists.
Colonies are massive, often encrusting, with polygonal corallites 6–12 mm. Walls are particularly sharp and septa are well developed. Color ranges from emerald green to orange-brown, sometimes with contrasting centers. Polyps are small and retractile. This species grows slowly and forms dense mounds. It is sensitive to sudden parameter changes. In aquaria, it can reach 20 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to medium lighting (PAR 100-150) and moderate flow. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium >400 ppm, magnesium >1200 ppm. Feed zooplankton and phytoplankton twice a week. Minimum tank volume 120 liters. Avoid polyp-eating fish. Good flow around the colony is important. Fragmentation possible but delicate.

##### [Best's Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-bestae)
**Favites bestae** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites bestae is a massive LPS coral with bright colors, often yellow or green. It is sought after for its regular growth and ease of care.
Colonies are cerioid, forming rounded domes. Corallites are 4–8 mm, with thick walls and well-spaced septa. Dominant color is bright yellow, sometimes shaded with green or brown. Polyps are large and extend generously at night. This species tolerates moderate to high light well. Growth is moderate and regular. It can form colonies of 25 cm in aquaria.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high lighting (PAR 150-250) and moderate flow. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1350 ppm. Feed phytoplankton and small zooplankton 1-2 times per week. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Compatible with most reef fish. Avoid aggressive invertebrates. Easy to frag.

##### [Chinese Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-chinensis)
**Favites chinensis** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites chinensis is a common LPS coral with massive colonies and brown to green coloration. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners.
Colonies are cerioid, often encrusting or dome-shaped. Corallites are polygonal, 5–10 mm, with thick walls and irregular septa. Color is generally brown, sometimes green or gray, with lighter centers. Polyps are small and retractile. This species grows slowly but steadily. It tolerates a wide range of conditions. In aquaria, it can reach 30 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Standard parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow. Nitrates <15 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400 ppm, magnesium 1200 ppm. Feed phytoplankton once a week. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Very tolerant, but avoid nutrient excess. Compatible with most fish. Easy to frag.

##### [Flattened Favites Coral](/encyclopedia/favites-complanata)
**Favites complanata** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites complanata forms flattened plate-like colonies, hence its name. It is a hardy LPS coral easy to maintain.
Colonies are massive, often plate-like or flattened dome. Corallites are polygonal, 4–9 mm, with thin walls and regular septa. Color ranges from light brown to olive green, sometimes with pink hues. Polyps are small and extend at night. This species grows slowly but forms spreading structures. It is often used as a base for other corals. In aquaria, it can reach 20 cm across.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate to low flow. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400 ppm, magnesium 1200 ppm. Feed phytoplankton and zooplankton 1-2 times per week. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Avoid strong currents that may damage polyps. Compatible with peaceful fish. Fragmentation possible.

##### [Wavy favites coral](/encyclopedia/favites-flexuosa)
**Favites flexuosa** — Merulinidae · coral
Massive hard coral with meandering polyp walls.
Favites flexuosa forms massive hemispherical colonies. Corallites are polygonal with thick walls. Polyps are small and retractile. Color varies from brown to green, sometimes with lighter centers. It is a robust LPS coral. It feeds on zooplankton at night. Requires moderate lighting and flow. Can reach large size.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Reef aquarium at least 100 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting. Moderate flow. Diet: zooplankton, brine shrimp, mysis, liquid coral food. Compatible with most fish and corals. Avoid aggressive corals. Moderate care. Slow growth.

##### [Favites coral](/encyclopedia/favites-halicora)
**Favites halicora** — Merulinidae · coral
Favites halicora is a massive LPS coral appreciated for its varied colors and ease of care.
This coral forms encrusting or massive colonies with fleshy polyps. Colors range from green to brown, sometimes with purple or red hues. It has well-developed septa and a brain-like surface. Nocturnally active, it extends its tentacles to capture plankton. In aquariums, it tolerates parameter variations well. Its growth is moderate and it can be stressed by overly intense light.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting is sufficient, with low to moderate flow. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) levels must be stable. Nitrates < 10 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. It accepts phytoplankton and zooplankton feeding. A minimum tank volume of 100 liters is recommended. Compatible with most peaceful fish and other LPS corals.

##### [Beaded Anemone](/encyclopedia/heteractis-aurora)
**Heteractis aurora** — Stichodactylidae · coral
Medium-sized anemone with beaded tentacles. Less stinging than other anemones. Hosts certain clownfish species.
Heteractis aurora is distinguished by its short, thick tentacles ending in a small bulb (beaded appearance). Color is usually brown, gray or greenish with lighter tips. It can reach 30 cm in diameter. It is less aggressive than Stichodactyla haddoni. It lives in symbiosis with clownfish such as Amphiprion percula. It attaches to rocks or sand. In aquaria, it is considered easier than other carpet anemones.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 150-250). Low to moderate flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Carnivorous diet: small fish, shrimp, fish pieces. Can be fed 1-2 times per week. Requires a tank of at least 80 L. Avoid very small fish. Compatible with clownfish. May move, so provide a safe area.

##### [Delicate anemone](/encyclopedia/heteractis-malu)
**Heteractis malu** — Stichodactylidae · coral
Medium-sized anemone with long, thin tentacles, often pale in color. Known to be delicate in aquaria.
Heteractis malu has an oral disc of 20-30 cm, with long, thin, often translucent tentacles in white, pink or beige. It buries its base in the sand, leaving only tentacles exposed. It is solitary and less aggressive than other anemones. It readily hosts clownfish such as Amphiprion ocellaris. Its sting is moderate. It is sensitive to parameter changes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 200 L. Feed 1-2 times per week with small pieces of fish or shrimp. Very sensitive to nitrates (max 10 ppm) and phosphates. Perfectly stable water is essential. Avoid strong currents. Compatible with clownfish and peaceful fish. Do not move once settled.

##### [Corymbose brain coral](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-corymbosa)
**Lobophyllia corymbosa** — Lobophylliidae · coral
LPS coral forming massive dome-shaped colonies, with deep valleys and bright colors.
Lobophyllia corymbosa is characterized by hemispherical or encrusting colonies, with sinuous valleys and thick septa. Its polyps are fleshy and can be various colors: green, red, brown, purple. It is moderately aggressive and extends tentacles at night. Requires moderate lighting and medium flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Leave space between colonies to avoid conflicts. Feed with meaty foods or plankton. Maintain water rich in calcium and alkalinity. Good water movement is important.

##### [Ribbed Lobophyllia](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-costata)
**Lobophyllia costata** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Massive LPS coral with distinctive ribbed lobes, less common than Lobophyllia robusta.
Lobophyllia costata forms massive colonies with lobes marked by longitudinal ribs. Polyps are fleshy and often brown, green or red. It is aggressive and can extend filaments. Growth is moderate. It feeds through photosynthesis and prey capture. It is valued for its unique ribbed texture and hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to L. robusta: 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank 200 liters. Feed meaty foods 2-3 times per week. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450, magnesium 1200-1350. Leave space to avoid conflicts. Tolerates stable conditions well.

##### [Hata's Lobed Coral](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-hataii)
**Lobophyllia hataii** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Massive LPS coral with rounded lobes, often brightly colored. A robust species suitable for reef aquariums.
Lobophyllia hataii forms massive, hemispherical colonies. Its lobes are thick and rounded, with fleshy polyps that extend at night. Coloration ranges from green to brown, sometimes with red or purple hues. It is a slow-growing but hardy coral. It can reach 30 cm in diameter in an aquarium. It prefers moderate lighting and moderate flow. It is generally peaceful but may extend its polyps to shade neighbors.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium maintained at 400 ppm, magnesium at 1300 ppm. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic but appreciates zooplankton (Artemia, rotifers) 1-2 times per week. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Compatible with most reef fish, avoid coral-eating fish. Fragmentation possible but delicate. Beware of sudden parameter swings.

##### [Lobed brain coral](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-hemprichii)
**Lobophyllia hemprichii** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Lobophyllia hemprichii is a massive LPS coral, recognizable by its large fleshy polyps and varied colors. It is popular in reef aquariums.
Colonies of Lobophyllia hemprichii are massive, hemispherical or encrusting, reaching up to 30 cm in diameter. Polyps are large, fleshy, with short, swollen tentacles, often brightly colored (green, brown, red, purple). The corallite surface has well-visible septa. At night, sweeper tentacles may extend to capture prey. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Lighting should be moderate to intense, with moderate water flow to prevent debris accumulation on polyps. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 mg/L, magnesium >1250 mg/L, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. It tolerates nitrates up to 10 mg/L and phosphates up to 0.1 mg/L. It is semi-aggressive: its sweeper tentacles can damage neighboring corals, so spacing of at least 15 cm is advised. It feeds on zooplankton and small particles but derives most energy from its zooxanthellae.

##### [Robust Lobophyllia](/encyclopedia/lobophyllia-robusta)
**Lobophyllia robusta** — Lobophylliidae · coral
Large massive LPS coral forming rounded lobes, very hardy and easy to keep.
Lobophyllia robusta forms massive dome-shaped colonies with thick fleshy lobes. Polyps are large and can be brown, green, red or purple. It is an aggressive coral that can extend mesenterial filaments. It feeds through photosynthesis and prey capture. Growth is moderate to fast. It is very popular for its hardiness and imposing appearance.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high lighting (PAR 150-250), moderate to strong flow. Minimum tank 200 liters due to adult size. Feed meaty foods 2-3 times per week. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450, magnesium 1200-1350. Leave space around as it can damage neighboring corals. Tolerates stable conditions well.

##### [Long-tentacle anemone](/encyclopedia/macrodactyla-doreensis)
**Macrodactyla doreensis** — Actiniidae · coral
Large anemone with long, slender tentacles, often hosting clownfish. Requires a mature and stable aquarium.
Macrodactyla doreensis has an oral disc up to 30 cm in diameter, with long, tapering tentacles often brown, green or purple. It buries its base in the sand, leaving only tentacles exposed. It is a solitary species that can be aggressive toward other anemones. It readily hosts clownfish of the genus Amphiprion. Its sting is moderately irritating to humans. In aquaria, it requires very clean water and moderate to high lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Maintain temperature between 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high lighting (LED or T5) is required. Water flow should be moderate. A minimum tank volume of 200 L is recommended. Feed 1-2 times per week with pieces of fish, shrimp or mysis. Avoid large parameter swings. It is sensitive to high nitrates (max 10 ppm). Once settled, do not move it. Compatible with clownfish and peaceful fish.

##### [Slender carnation coral](/encyclopedia/scleronephthya-gracillima)
**Scleronephthya gracillima** — Nephtheidae · coral
The slender carnation coral is a tree-like soft coral with white or pink polyps. It is delicate and requires very clean water.
Scleronephthya gracillima forms fine, branched tree-like colonies. Its polyps are non-retractile and form a dense fuzz. It lacks zooxanthellae and relies entirely on plankton capture. Its color ranges from white to pale pink. It is very sensitive to parameter fluctuations and high nitrates. Its growth is slow. It is often confused with Nephthea but is distinguished by its finer structure.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
This coral is for experienced aquarists only. It requires a mature aquarium with very stable, oligotrophic water. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.03 ppm. Moderate to strong flow is needed to bring food. It must be fed daily with phytoplankton and small zooplankton. Low lighting is sufficient as it is non-photosynthetic. Avoid competition with aggressive corals. Propagation by cuttings is possible but delicate.

##### [Red carnation coral](/encyclopedia/scleronephthya-sp)
**Scleronephthya sp.** — Nephtheidae · coral
The red carnation coral is a tree-like soft coral with bright red coloration. It is highly sought after but difficult to keep.
Scleronephthya sp. is characterized by its intense red color, due to carotenoid pigments. Its polyps are non-retractile and form a velvety texture. Like S. gracillima, it is azooxanthellate and must be fed. It prefers low light and moderate flow. Its growth is slow and it is sensitive to bacterial infections. It can reach 30 cm in height. It is often confused with Dendronephthya but is distinguished by its firmer consistency.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 250L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Expert maintenance only. Mature aquarium, very clean water (nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.02 ppm). Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Low lighting, moderate to strong flow. Feed several times a day with phytoplankton, rotifers, nauplii. Direct flow onto the polyps is beneficial. Avoid corals that release toxins. Propagation is difficult; try careful cuttings. Monitor for signs of necrosis. A good skimmer and control of organic matter are essential.

##### [Haddon's Carpet Anemone](/encyclopedia/stichodactyla-haddoni)
**Stichodactyla haddoni** — Stichodactylidae · coral
Large carpet anemone with a wide disc and short tentacles. Hosts clownfish. Requires a stable, well-lit aquarium.
Stichodactyla haddoni has a large oral disc (up to 50 cm) covered with short, sticky tentacles. Color ranges from green to brown, sometimes blue or purple. It is highly stinging and can sting fish or humans. It lives in symbiosis with clownfish (Amphiprioninae). It attaches to hard substrate or sand. It can move slowly. In aquaria, it requires intense lighting and good water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (PAR 200-300). Low to moderate flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Carnivorous diet: small fish, shrimp, meaty pieces. Avoid very small fish that could be eaten. Requires a tank of at least 100 L. Beware of pump intakes. Can be challenging for beginners.

##### [Mertens' carpet anemone](/encyclopedia/stichodactyla-mertensii)
**Stichodactyla mertensii** — Stichodactylidae · coral
Very large carpet anemone, up to 50 cm, with a disc covered in short tentacles. Highly sought after for large aquariums.
Stichodactyla mertensii has a large, flat oral disc densely covered with short, rounded tentacles, giving it a carpet-like appearance. Color ranges from brown to green, sometimes with purple hues. It lives on reef flats, often exposed to strong currents. It is highly aggressive toward other cnidarians. It hosts many clownfish species, including Amphiprion ocellaris and A. percula. Its sting is powerful.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 300L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. High lighting (powerful LED or metal halide) and moderate to strong flow. Minimum tank volume 300 L, ideally 500 L. Feed twice a week with pieces of fish, shrimp or squid. Requires very stable water and strong filtration. Nitrates should stay below 10 ppm. Avoid placing near other corals. Compatible with clownfish and robust fish.

##### [Meat coral](/encyclopedia/symphyllia-radians)
**Symphyllia radians** — Mussidae · coral
A massive LPS coral forming large undulating colonies with vivid colors. It is popular in the aquarium trade for its hardiness and fast growth.
Symphyllia radians forms massive, dome-shaped or meandering colonies with fleshy polyps and prominent septa. Colors range from green, brown, red to purple, often with contrasting mouths. Polyps are retractable and can extend long sweeper tentacles at night. Colonies can exceed 1 meter in the wild but remain smaller in aquaria. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100 L tank is recommended. Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting, moderate water flow. Omnivorous, feeds on zooplankton and microorganisms but relies mainly on zooxanthellae. Compatible with most fish and invertebrates, but watch for sweeper tentacles that can damage neighboring corals. Avoid placing too close to other corals.

##### [Straight Brain Coral](/encyclopedia/symphyllia-recta)
**Symphyllia recta** — Lobophylliidae · coral
LPS coral forming characteristic straight valleys. Bright coloration, easy to maintain.
Symphyllia recta is distinguished by its elongated, straight valleys, unlike the meanders of other brain corals. Polyps are fleshy and retractile, often green, brown or bluish. Colonies are massive and can reach 40 cm. It is a moderate-growing coral. It prefers low to moderate light and moderate flow. It is peaceful but can sting neighboring corals with its nematocysts. It reproduces by natural fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400 ppm, magnesium 1300 ppm. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150), moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, will accept fine zooplankton. Minimum tank volume 100 liters. Compatible with reef fish, avoid butterflyfish. Easy fragmentation. Monitor nitrogen parameters (NO3 < 10 ppm, PO4 < 0.1 ppm).

##### [Wilson's Brain Coral](/encyclopedia/symphyllia-wilsoni)
**Symphyllia wilsoni** — Lobophylliidae · coral
LPS coral with sinuous meanders, often colored green or purple. Hardy species for experienced aquarists.
Symphyllia wilsoni forms massive colonies with sinuous, deep valleys. Polyps are large and fleshy, color variable: green, purple, brown or blue. It can reach 50 cm in diameter. Growth is slow. It requires moderate light and moderate to low flow. It is peaceful but can extend stinging polyps at night. It is sensitive to salinity and temperature fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Calcium 420 ppm, magnesium 1350 ppm. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-150), low to moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, supplement with zooplankton once a week. Minimum tank volume 150 liters. Compatible with calm reef fish. Fragmentation delicate. Avoid strong direct light. Keep NO3 < 5 ppm, PO4 < 0.05 ppm.

##### [Open brain coral](/encyclopedia/trachyphyllia-geoffroyi)
**Trachyphyllia geoffroyi** — Trachyphylliidae · coral
The open brain coral is an LPS coral with large fleshy polyps, recognizable by its undulating shape and vivid colors. It is popular in reef aquariums for its relative hardiness.
Trachyphyllia geoffroyi forms massive, rounded or elongated colonies up to 30 cm in diameter. The polyps are large and fleshy, with short tentacles and visible mouths. Coloration ranges from green, brown, red, orange to purple, often with contrasting patterns. It is generally solitary but can coexist with other corals at a distance. No obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended, with moderate to intense lighting and low to moderate flow. Stable parameters are essential: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 ppm, magnesium >1200 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH. It tolerates nitrates up to 20 ppm and phosphates up to 0.1 ppm. It feeds on zooplankton and can be target-fed meaty foods. Beware of stinging tentacles at night; space it at least 15 cm from other corals.

##### [Radiated brain coral](/encyclopedia/trachyphyllia-radiata)
**Trachyphyllia radiata** — Trachyphylliidae · coral
Solitary LPS coral with a brain-like shape, sinuous valleys and bright colors, often kept on the substrate.
Trachyphyllia radiata is a solitary LPS coral, free-living or attached, with a wrinkled surface resembling a brain. Its polyps are retractile, revealing radial lines. It is photosynthetic but can also capture prey. Prefers moderate lighting and low flow. Growth is slow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Place on a sand bed or flat rock. Avoid moving it often. Feed with plankton or micro-particles. Maintain stable calcium and alkalinity levels.

##### [Green star polyp](/encyclopedia/briareum-sp)
**Briareum sp.** — Briareidae · coral
The green star polyp is a bright green encrusting coral, often used as a mat in aquariums. It is very hardy and easy to maintain.
Briareum sp. is an encrusting soft coral forming a continuous mat on rocks. Its polyps are green, very numerous, and open during the day. It grows quickly under good conditions. It is photosynthetic but appreciates phytoplankton feeding. It can become invasive if not controlled. Its green color is due to specific pigments and zooxanthellae. It is often confused with other Briareum but is distinguished by its bright hue.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
This coral is very tolerant and suitable for beginners. Moderate to intense lighting is sufficient, with moderate flow. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It tolerates slightly elevated nutrient levels but prefers nitrates <20 ppm. Calcium and magnesium should be kept within marine norms. It can be fed liquid phytoplankton. Beware of its rapid growth: it can overgrow other corals. Trim regularly to contain it. It propagates by fragmentation or by detaching fragments.

##### [Imbricate Capnella](/encyclopedia/capnella-imbricata)
**Capnella imbricata** — Nephtheidae · coral
Capnella imbricata is a tree-like soft coral with overlapping branches. It is often called 'Kenya tree coral' and is very popular in aquariums.
This coral forms a tree-like structure with overlapping branches, giving a bushy appearance. The polyps are small and retractable. Its color is usually brown or beige. It can reach 30 cm in height. Its growth is moderate to fast. It is very hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. It can be easily propagated by cuttings. It is ideal for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate. Flow moderate. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 60 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, can be kept with other soft corals. Difficulty: easy (2/5). Adult size: 30 cm. Lifespan: 5-10 years. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Brown Capnella](/encyclopedia/capnella-sp)
**Capnella sp.** — Nephtheidae · coral
The Brown Capnella is a tree-like soft coral with brown coloration. It is very hardy and easy to keep, ideal for beginners.
This coral forms fleshy tree-like branches in brown to beige color. The polyps are retractable. Its growth is moderate to fast. It can reach 25 cm in height. It tolerates a wide range of parameters. It is peaceful and can be kept with other soft corals. It propagates easily by cuttings. It is very popular in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate. Flow moderate. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 60 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Difficulty: easy (2/5). Adult size: 25 cm. Lifespan: 5-8 years. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Thick finger leather](/encyclopedia/cladiella-pachyclados)
**Cladiella pachyclados** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A fast-growing soft coral with thick finger-like lobes.
Cladiella pachyclados is a soft coral of the family Alcyoniidae. It forms colonies of thick finger-like lobes, beige to brown. It is very hardy and spreads quickly, covering rocks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate lighting, low to moderate flow. Tolerates higher nutrient levels. Beware of its fast growth that can overgrow the tank.

##### [Finger leather coral](/encyclopedia/cladiella-sp)
**Cladiella sp.** — Alcyoniidae · coral
Finger-shaped soft coral, easy to keep in a reef aquarium.
Cladiella sp. forms finger-like colonies up to 20 cm in height. The polyps are retractile and appear as small bumps on the branches. Coloration ranges from light brown to beige, sometimes with greenish hues. Growth occurs in dense clumps. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Tank size at least 100 L with moderate lighting and moderate water flow. Parameters should be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It feeds mainly on zooxanthellae but appreciates supplemental phytoplankton. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid aggressive corals. Special care is needed as it may release toxins when stressed.

##### [Blue clove polyp](/encyclopedia/clavularia-sp)
**Clavularia sp.** — Clavulariidae · coral
Soft coral forming mats of blue or purple polyps.
Blue clove polyp is a colonial soft coral. Polyps are small, bell-shaped, with eight feathery tentacles. They are connected by a creeping stolon. Color ranges from blue to purple. It grows quickly and can cover rocks. It is photosynthetic (zooxanthellae). Can be invasive in the aquarium. Reproduces by fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Reef aquarium at least 50 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting. Moderate flow. Diet: dissolved nutrients, phytoplankton, but mainly photosynthetic. Compatible with most fish and corals. Beware of rapid growth that can smother other corals. Easy maintenance.

##### [Green Clove Polyp](/encyclopedia/clavularia-viridis)
**Clavularia viridis** — Clavulariidae · coral
The Green Clove Polyp is a soft encrusting coral that forms mats of green polyps. It is very popular in reef aquariums for its fast growth and ease of care.
Clavularia viridis has bright green polyps with eight feathery tentacles, typical of octocorals. The polyps emerge from an encrusting stolon that spreads over the substrate. Each polyp is about 1–2 cm in diameter. The green color comes from symbiotic zooxanthellae. In aquariums, it can form large dense colonies. It is often confused with other Clavulariidae like Pachyclavularia. Its growth is rapid under good conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Maintain temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting is sufficient, but it tolerates stronger light. Moderate water flow is recommended to prevent detritus buildup. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1200-1350 ppm) levels should be stable. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but appreciates supplemental phytoplankton. A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is advised. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and invertebrates.

##### [Aurora anemone](/encyclopedia/entacmaea-aurora)
**Entacmaea aurora** — Actiniidae · invertebrate
The aurora anemone is a medium-sized anemone with bright colors ranging from green to purple. It is appreciated for its beauty and ease of care.
Entacmaea aurora is a solitary anemone of the family Actiniidae. Its diameter can reach 15 cm. It has short, thick tentacles, often with colored tips. It lives attached to rocks or in sand. It can move slowly. It sometimes hosts clownfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires a stable reef aquarium with moderate to intense lighting. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: small pieces of fish, shrimp, brine shrimp. Avoid strong currents. Beware of other anemones as it can be aggressive.

##### [Bubble-tip anemone](/encyclopedia/entacmaea-quadricolor)
**Entacmaea quadricolor** — Actiniidae · invertebrate
The bubble-tip anemone is a popular sea anemone for its symbiosis with clownfish and its bubble-shaped tentacles.
Entacmaea quadricolor, the bubble-tip anemone, is a sea anemone species of the family Actiniidae. Its tentacles have bubble-like tips, hence its name. It can reach 30 cm in diameter. It often hosts clownfish (Amphiprion) and requires intense lighting and good water quality. It can divide in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Intense lighting (LED or T5), salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C, nitrates <10 ppm. Feeding: small pieces of fish, shrimp, or specific anemone food. Avoid strong currents. May move, so secure rocks.

##### [Crispa anemone](/encyclopedia/heteractis-crispa)
**Heteractis crispa** — Stichodactylidae · invertebrate
The crispa anemone is a medium-sized anemone with long, wavy tentacles. It is popular for reef aquariums and can host clownfish.
Heteractis crispa is an anemone of the family Stichodactylidae. Its diameter can reach 30 cm. Its tentacles are long, thin and often curled, giving a frizzy appearance. Its color varies from brown to green, sometimes with purple tips. It lives attached to rocks. It is less stinging than other anemones.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires a reef aquarium of at least 150 liters with moderate to intense lighting and moderate flow. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: small fish, shrimp, brine shrimp. Beware of other anemones as it can move.

##### [Magnificent anemone](/encyclopedia/heteractis-magnifica)
**Heteractis magnifica** — Stichodactylidae · invertebrate
Large symbiotic anemone with colorful tentacles, host to clownfish.
The magnificent anemone is one of the largest sea anemones. Its tentacles can reach 15 cm. It often hosts clownfish and shrimps. It requires intense lighting and high water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Mature aquarium with strong lighting (LED or metal halide). Moderate flow. Diet: small fish, shrimp, plankton. Avoid sudden changes.

##### [Green Klyxum](/encyclopedia/klyxum-sp)
**Klyxum sp.** — Alcyoniidae · coral
Green encrusting soft coral, forming mats on rocks. Easy to keep in reef aquariums.
Klyxum sp. is an encrusting soft coral that forms dense, fleshy colonies. Its characteristic green color comes from symbiotic zooxanthellae. It can reach 20 cm in an aquarium. It is very hardy and tolerates variable water conditions. It reproduces easily by fragmentation. It can be aggressive towards neighboring corals by releasing toxins.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Feeding: phytoplankton, zooplankton, organic particles. Compatible with most reef fish. Avoid sensitive hard corals due to toxins. Easy propagation by fragmentation.

##### [Arborescent Nephthea](/encyclopedia/nephthea-capnelliformis)
**Nephthea capnelliformis** — Nephtheidae · coral
Nephthea capnelliformis is a tree-like soft coral with thick branches. It is appreciated for its elegant shape and ease of maintenance.
This coral forms a tree-like structure with thick, fleshy branches. The polyps are retractable and appear as small flowers. Its color ranges from beige to light brown. It can reach 30 cm in height. It is moderately fast growing. It is sensitive to sudden parameter changes. It lacks a calcareous skeleton. It can be kept in a reef aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate. Flow moderate to strong. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 100 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Difficulty: moderate (3/5). Adult size: 30 cm. Lifespan: 5-8 years. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Yellow Nephthea](/encyclopedia/nephthea-sp)
**Nephthea sp.** — Nephtheidae · coral
The Yellow Nephthea is a tree-like soft coral with bright yellow coloration. It adds a splash of color to the reef aquarium.
This coral forms fleshy tree-like branches in yellow to orange color. The polyps are small and retractable. Its growth is moderate. It can reach 25 cm in height. It is sensitive to high nitrates. It prefers moderate lighting. It is generally peaceful. It can be easily propagated by cuttings.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate. Flow moderate. Feeding: photosynthetic, may accept phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 80 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, avoid aggressive corals. Difficulty: moderate (3/5). Adult size: 25 cm. Lifespan: 5-8 years. Propagation by cuttings.

##### [Green Star Polyp](/encyclopedia/pachyclavularia-sp)
**Pachyclavularia sp.** — Clavulariidae · coral
Pachyclavularia is an encrusting soft coral forming a bright green mat of polyps. Easy to keep, it is ideal for marine aquarium beginners.
This coral forms a basal encrustation from which numerous green polyps emerge. The polyps are retractable and open in light. It can quickly cover rocks and decorations. Its growth is moderate to fast depending on conditions. It is very hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. In aquariums, it can become invasive if not controlled. It lacks a calcareous skeleton.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L. Lighting moderate to high. Flow moderate. Feeding: primarily photosynthetic, but can benefit from direct feeding with phytoplankton or zooplankton. Minimum tank volume: 40 liters. Compatibility: peaceful, can be kept with other soft corals and reef fish. Difficulty: easy (2/5). Adult size: encrusting up to 30 cm diameter. Lifespan: 5-10 years. Propagation by fragmentation.

##### [Purple Star Polyp](/encyclopedia/pachyclavularia-violacea)
**Pachyclavularia violacea** — Clavulariidae · coral
The Purple Star Polyp is a soft encrusting coral with star-shaped purple polyps. It quickly forms large mats on rocks.
Pachyclavularia violacea produces purple polyps with eight feathery tentacles arranged in a star shape. The encrusting stolon is thick and dark purple. Polyps are about 1 cm in diameter. They retract quickly when stressed. The purple color is intense under blue light. It can cover large areas. It is often used as a background coral in reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to high light, moderate to high flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1200-1350 ppm. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but appreciates phytoplankton. A minimum tank volume of 40 liters is recommended. It can become invasive and overgrow other corals. Trim regularly to control growth. Compatible with peaceful fish.

##### [Blue palythoa](/encyclopedia/palythoa-caesia)
**Palythoa caesia** — Sphenopidae · coral
Soft coral forming mats of blue or purple polyps. Contains a potent toxin.
Palythoa caesia is an encrusting soft coral. Its polyps are often blue or purple. It produces palytoxin, a dangerous toxin for humans. Handle with care. It is very hardy and can overgrow the tank.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Moderate lighting, low to moderate flow. Avoid touching with bare hands. Beware of palytoxin.

##### [Yuma ricordea](/encyclopedia/ricordea-yuma)
**Ricordea yuma** — Ricordeidae · coral
Ricordea yuma is a solitary or colonial soft coral, popular in reef aquariums for its bright colors and ease of care.
Ricordea yuma appears as fleshy polyps, typically 5 to 15 cm in diameter. Its surface is covered with short, bulbous tentacles often arranged in concentric patterns. Coloration is extremely variable: green, blue, orange, red, purple, often with contrasting patterns. It has a central mouth surrounded by longer tentacles. It is photosynthetic thanks to its zooxanthellae, but can also capture small prey. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by budding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 80 liters is recommended for one specimen, with low to moderate lighting and low to moderate flow. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, dKH 8-12. It tolerates nitrates up to 10 ppm and phosphates up to 0.1 ppm. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but appreciates fine meaty foods like zooplankton or mysis. Beware of stinging tentacles: leave at least 10 cm of space from other corals. Avoid fish or invertebrates that might jostle it.

##### [Ehrenberg's leather coral](/encyclopedia/sarcophyton-ehrenbergi)
**Sarcophyton ehrenbergi** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A mushroom-shaped leather coral, hardy and easy to maintain.
Sarcophyton ehrenbergi is a soft coral of the family Alcyoniidae. It forms a mushroom-shaped colony with a thick stalk and a folded cap. It is very hardy and can grow large. It produces toxins that may inhibit the growth of other corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires moderate to intense lighting and moderate flow. Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Beware of allelopathic toxins, place away from other corals.

##### [Elegant leather coral](/encyclopedia/sarcophyton-elegans)
**Sarcophyton elegans** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A soft coral with fine, slender lobes, more delicate than S. trocheliophorum. Valued for its graceful shape.
Sarcophyton elegans is distinguished by its elongated, finger-like lobes, often light beige to pink. The stalk is short and broad. Polyps are small and retractable. It grows slower than other Sarcophyton and can reach 30 cm. It also produces allelopathic toxins. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate lighting and low flow. Asexual reproduction by fragmentation is possible.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters similar to S. trocheliophorum: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 50-80), low to moderate flow. Beware of toxins: space it from other corals. Feed with phytoplankton or liquid foods once a week. A minimum of 80 liters is recommended. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp. Avoid coral-eating fish.

##### [Toadstool leather coral](/encyclopedia/sarcophyton-glaucum)
**Sarcophyton glaucum** — Alcyoniidae · coral
The toadstool leather coral (Sarcophyton glaucum) is a common soft coral of Indo-Pacific reefs, recognizable by its large fleshy stalk and retractable polyps forming a mushroom-like cap.
Sarcophyton glaucum forms a mushroom-shaped colony with a thick, fleshy stalk and a broad, folded cap. The polyps are retractile and appear as small bumps when the colony is disturbed. Coloration ranges from beige to brown, sometimes with greenish or purplish hues. Colonies can reach 30 cm in diameter and 20 cm in height. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Maintain temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <10 ppm, and phosphates <0.1 ppm. Moderate lighting and low to moderate flow are suitable. It is photosynthetic but benefits from occasional planktonic feedings. Caution: it can release toxins (sarcophytoxin) that affect neighboring corals; space it at least 20 cm from other corals.

##### [Leather coral](/encyclopedia/sarcophyton-trocheliophorum)
**Sarcophyton trocheliophorum** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A fleshy lobed soft coral, very common in reef aquariums. It forms large mushroom-shaped colonies.
Sarcophyton trocheliophorum has a thick stalk and a lobed capitulum that can reach 50 cm. Its surface is wrinkled and may show beige, brown or green hues. It retracts its polyps at night and extends them during the day for photosynthesis. It produces toxins (sarcophytines) that inhibit the growth of nearby corals. This is a robust and tolerant species, ideal for beginners. It can reproduce by natural fragmentation or budding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4 and salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 50-100) is sufficient, but it tolerates stronger light. Water flow should be low to moderate to avoid tearing tissues. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts liquid coral foods. A minimum tank volume of 100 liters is recommended. Avoid placing it too close to other corals due to its toxins. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and invertebrates.

##### [Hard sinularia](/encyclopedia/sinularia-dura)
**Sinularia dura** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A soft coral with firm texture and short lobes, forming dome-shaped colonies. Very hardy in aquariums.
Sinularia dura has a thick stalk and short, rounded lobes, giving a compact appearance. Its color ranges from beige to dark brown. Polyps are small and numerous. It is less toxic than Sarcophyton but can still inhibit the growth of neighboring corals. It grows moderately fast and can reach 25 cm. In the aquarium, it adapts to a wide range of lighting and flow. It reproduces by fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 80-150), moderate flow. Tolerates parameter fluctuations. Feed with liquid foods or phytoplankton once or twice a week. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Compatible with most fish and invertebrates. Avoid angelfish and butterflyfish that may nip at it.

##### [Hard leather coral](/encyclopedia/sinularia-duriuscula)
**Sinularia duriuscula** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A leather coral with a hard texture, forming thick branches.
Sinularia duriuscula is a soft coral of the family Alcyoniidae. It is characterized by thick, rigid branches, beige to brown in color. It is less common than other Sinularia but equally hardy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to intense lighting, moderate flow. Tolerates variable conditions. Can be fed plankton.

##### [Flexible leather coral](/encyclopedia/sinularia-flexibilis)
**Sinularia flexibilis** — Alcyoniidae · coral
The flexible leather coral is a common soft coral of Indo-Pacific reefs, recognized by its soft, undulating lobes. It is highly valued in reef aquariums for its hardiness and graceful movement.
Sinularia flexibilis forms lobed, fleshy colonies up to 30 cm in diameter. The lobes are soft, flexible, often branched, with a wrinkled surface. Coloration ranges from light beige to brown, sometimes with greenish or purplish hues. Polyps are retractile and appear as small bumps when the colony is disturbed. In moderate flow, the lobes sway gently, resembling anemones. There is no visible sexual dimorphism; reproduction is both sexual (broadcast spawning) and asexual (fragmentation).
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for Sinularia flexibilis. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate water flow are ideal. Although primarily photosynthetic, occasional feeding with phytoplankton or micro-organisms can boost growth. Beware of allelopathy: this species releases terpenoids that can inhibit the growth of other soft or hard corals nearby. Activated carbon filtration is advised.

##### [Remarkable sinularia](/encyclopedia/sinularia-notanda)
**Sinularia notanda** — Alcyoniidae · coral
A soft coral with digitate lobes and a rough surface, often brightly colored. Less common but very decorative.
Sinularia notanda is characterized by elongated, branched lobes resembling fingers. Its texture is firm and the surface is covered with small warts. Colors range from olive green to purple. Polyps are large and conspicuous. It produces moderate allelopathic compounds. Growth is slow to moderate, reaching 20 cm. It prefers moderate lighting and low to moderate flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 60-100), low to moderate flow. Sensitive to high nitrates (>10 ppm). Feed with phytoplankton or liquid foods twice a week. Minimum tank volume 60 liters. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive corals nearby. Fragmentation possible but delicate.

##### [Giant carpet anemone](/encyclopedia/stichodactyla-gigantea)
**Stichodactyla gigantea** — Stichodactylidae · invertebrate
The giant carpet anemone is a large anemone that can reach 1 meter in diameter. It is highly sought after for reef aquariums but requires a large volume.
Stichodactyla gigantea is an anemone of the family Stichodactylidae. It has a large, flat oral disc covered with many short, sticky tentacles. Its color varies from brown to green. It lives in sandy areas and can host clownfish. It is very stinging.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 300L, Size 100cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NT
Requires a very large aquarium (minimum 300 liters) with intense lighting and moderate flow. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: large pieces of fish, shrimp, squid. Very demanding on parameter stability. Avoid contact with other corals.

##### [Carpet anemone](/encyclopedia/stichodactyla-tapetum)
**Stichodactyla tapetum** — Stichodactylidae · invertebrate
Large anemone with a wide, flat oral disc forming a carpet. Symbiotic with clownfish.
Stichodactyla tapetum is a sea anemone of the family Stichodactylidae. Its oral disc can reach 30 cm in diameter, covered with short, thick tentacles. It lives in symbiosis with several clownfish species. Requires a mature aquarium with intense lighting and moderate flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
Delicate species for experienced aquarists. Requires very stable water, strong lighting (LED or metal halide), and regular feeding with pieces of fish, shrimp, or specific anemone food. Avoid parameter fluctuations.

##### [Pulsing xenia](/encyclopedia/xenia-elongata)
**Xenia elongata** — Xeniidae · coral
Xenia elongata is a popular pulsing soft coral in reef aquaria, known for its rhythmic polyp movement. It is easy to keep and propagates quickly.
Xenia elongata forms upright colonies with elongated polyps reaching 2–3 cm in height. Each polyp has eight feathery tentacles (pinnules) arranged in a crown, colored from white to light brown, often with violet or pink hues. The characteristic pulsing motion results from rhythmic contraction and expansion of the polyps, likely aiding gas exchange and nutrient uptake. Colonies can spread rapidly across surrounding rockwork. No obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction by budding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80-liter tank is recommended for Xenia elongata. Stable water parameters are essential: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting and low to moderate flow are required. It relies primarily on photosynthesis via its zooxanthellae but benefits from supplemental phytoplankton or liquid coral food. Caution: this species can become invasive and overgrow other corals if not controlled.

##### [Umbrella xenia](/encyclopedia/xenia-umbellata)
**Xenia umbellata** — Xeniidae · coral
A soft coral with pulsing polyps, forming umbrella-shaped colonies. Very popular for its rhythmic movement.
Xenia umbellata has a thin stalk and an umbrella-shaped capitulum with long feathery polyps. The polyps pulse characteristically, opening and closing their tentacles. This pulsing is linked to photosynthesis and nutrient uptake. Colonies can reach 15 cm in diameter. They are beige, brown or sometimes green. The species is sensitive to parameter changes and can decline quickly. It reproduces by budding and fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Moderate lighting (PAR 50-100), moderate flow (essential for pulsing). Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Feed with phytoplankton or fine liquid foods. Minimum tank volume 50 liters. Avoid fish that nip at polyps. Compatible with shrimp and peaceful fish. Fragile, requires stable water. Can become invasive under good conditions.

##### [Giant zoanthid](/encyclopedia/zoanthus-gigantus)
**Zoanthus gigantus** — Zoanthidae · coral
Soft coral forming large colonies of colorful polyps. Easy to maintain.
Giant zoanthid is a very popular soft coral in reef keeping. Its polyps can reach several centimeters in diameter and come in many colors. It reproduces quickly and tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 10cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to high lighting, moderate flow. Feeding not necessary (photosynthetic). Beware of toxic palythoa.

##### [Zanzibar zoanthid](/encyclopedia/zoanthus-sansibaricus)
**Zoanthus sansibaricus** — Zoanthidae · coral
The Zanzibar zoanthid is a soft coral forming colonies of colorful polyps. It is popular in reef aquariums for its ease of care.
The polyps of Zoanthus sansibaricus are small, with a crown of tentacles around a central mouth. Color varies from green to brown, sometimes with orange or pink hues. They form dense mats on rocks. They contain symbiotic zooxanthellae. They can retract quickly when threatened. They reproduce by budding. They are hardy but can be sensitive to parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to strong lighting. Moderate flow is beneficial. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. They tolerate a wide range of conditions but stable water is preferred. Feed with phytoplankton or liquid coral foods. Watch for filamentous algae that can smother them.

##### [Digitate coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-digitifera)
**Acropora digitifera** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora digitifera is a fast-growing branching coral recognizable by its digitate branches.
Its colonies form dense clumps of thin, digitate branches, often brown, green or bluish. Branch tips are rounded. It grows quickly and can dominate shallow reefs. Its polyps are small and retracted during the day. It reproduces by natural fragmentation. In aquariums, it requires strong light and moderate to strong flow. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Strong lighting, moderate to strong flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm. Nitrates < 5 ppm, phosphates < 0.05 ppm. Feeds by photosynthesis, possible plankton supplement. Minimum tank volume 200 liters. Compatible with other Acropora if enough space. Avoid polyp-grazing fish.

##### [Elegant acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-formosa)
**Acropora formosa** — Acroporidae · coral
Elegant acropora is a fast-growing SPS coral with thin, slender branches.
Acropora formosa is distinguished by its long, thin branches, often blue or purple. It is highly prized in aquariums for its beauty and fast growth. Requires high water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: NT
Provide strong lighting and moderate to strong flow. Maintain stable parameters.

##### [Hyacinth coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-hyacinthus)
**Acropora hyacinthus** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora hyacinthus forms table-like or corymbose colonies, highly prized in aquaristics.
This coral develops horizontal table-like branches with fine, pointed tips. Color ranges from blue to purple, sometimes green or brown. It grows moderately and can reach large sizes. Its polyps are small and retracted during the day. It is sensitive to bleaching. In aquariums, it requires intense light and strong flow. It is often used as a water quality indicator.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 250L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Very high lighting, strong flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm. Nitrates < 5 ppm, phosphates < 0.05 ppm. Feeds by photosynthesis, may accept plankton. Minimum tank volume 250 liters. Avoid fish that nip polyps. Fragile, requires very stable water. Propagation by fragmentation.

##### [Millepora coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-millepora)
**Acropora millepora** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora millepora is a highly sought-after SPS coral in reef aquaria for its vibrant colors and fast growth. It requires intense lighting and high water quality.
Acropora millepora forms arborescent or bushy colonies with thin, pointed branches. The polyps are small and retractable, giving a velvety appearance to the surface. Its coloration ranges from green to brown, with tips often blue, purple, or pink. It is a fast-growing coral that can reach 30 cm in diameter in aquaria. It exhibits limited sexual dimorphism, with colonies generally being gonochoric. In aquaria, it can develop intense colors under appropriate lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for a small frag, but a 200+ liter tank is better for a mature colony. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026, dKH 8-12, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Intense lighting (LED or metal halide) is essential, along with strong flow to bring nutrients and remove waste. It is sensitive to parameter swings and high nitrates/phosphates. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid coral-eating fish. Propagation is done by fragging branches.

##### [Nasuta coral](/encyclopedia/acropora-nasuta)
**Acropora nasuta** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora nasuta is a common branching coral, recognizable by its thin branches and prominent corallites.
Its colonies form dense bushes of thin, irregular branches, often brown, green or pink. Corallites are tubular and protruding. It grows quickly and easily colonizes substrates. Its polyps are small and retracted during the day. It is hardy and tolerates variable conditions. In aquariums, it requires strong light and moderate to strong flow. It is less demanding than other Acropora.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 25-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. Strong lighting, moderate to strong flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm. Nitrates < 10 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. Feeds by photosynthesis, may accept plankton. Minimum tank volume 200 liters. Compatible with most fish. Easy propagation by fragmentation. Good choice for SPS beginners.

##### [Robust Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-robusta)
**Acropora robusta** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora robusta is a massive coral with thick, sturdy branches, often cream or brown. It is very hardy and suitable for beginner SPS aquarists.
Colonies of Acropora robusta are massive or dome-shaped, with short, thick branches. Corallites are large and spaced, giving a rough texture. Color ranges from beige to dark brown, sometimes with bluish tips. This species tolerates less stable conditions than other Acropora. Growth is slow to moderate. Behavior is semi-aggressive, but less than other species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to other Acropora: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting, moderate to strong flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, alkalinity 7-12 dKH. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Minimum tank volume 80 L. Compatible with most hard corals. Feed plankton 1-2 times per week.

##### [Rye Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-secale)
**Acropora secale** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora secale is a branching coral with fine, dense branches, often brown or green. It is valued for its fast growth and ability to quickly colonize the aquarium.
Colonies of Acropora secale are arborescent, with fine, highly branched branches. Corallites are small and arranged in a spiral. Dominant color is light brown to olive green, sometimes with blue tips. This species is very hardy and adapts to various conditions. It grows fast and can become invasive. Behavior is semi-aggressive, requiring adequate spacing.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 35cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Standard Acropora parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting, strong flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, alkalinity 7-12 dKH. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Beware of fast growth that may shade neighboring corals. Feed phytoplankton and fine particles.

##### [Spatulate Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-spathulata)
**Acropora spathulata** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora spathulata is distinguished by its spatula-shaped branches, widened at the tips. It is a delicate but highly aesthetic SPS coral, sought after for its unique shape.
Colonies of Acropora spathulata are tabular or plate-like, with upright branches whose tips are flattened into spatulas. Corallites are small and aligned. Color is usually brown, gray or pale blue. This species requires very clean water and moderate flow. Growth is slow. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Behavior is peaceful, but can be aggressive if space is limited.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.2-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.024-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.2-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting, moderate flow. Calcium 420-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1350 ppm, alkalinity 8-10 dKH. Nitrates <2 ppm, phosphates <0.03 ppm. Minimum tank volume 150 L. Avoid sudden changes. Compatible with other non-aggressive SPS corals. Feed fine zooplankton twice a week.

##### [Subglabrous Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-subglabra)
**Acropora subglabra** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora subglabra is a coral with smooth, fine branches, often cream or pale pink. It is valued for its delicate appearance and moderate growth.
Colonies of Acropora subglabra are arborescent, with fine, smooth branches, almost without prominent corallites. Tips are rounded. Color ranges from cream white to pale pink, sometimes with purple hues. This species is sensitive to water quality. Growth is moderate. It is less aggressive than other Acropora. It can be kept in groups if space is sufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting, moderate to strong flow. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, alkalinity 7-12 dKH. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Avoid high nutrient levels. Compatible with other peaceful SPS corals. Feed fine plankton 1-2 times per week.

##### [Tenuis acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-tenuis)
**Acropora tenuis** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora tenuis is a branching SPS coral, prized in reef aquariums for its vibrant colors and fast growth.
Acropora tenuis forms arborescent colonies with thin, slender branches, often colored blue, purple, green, or brown. The polyps are small and retractable, with short tentacles. Branches can reach 30 cm in length in aquariums. Growth is rapid under good conditions. There is no visible sexual dimorphism, but colonies can be male or female.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 200 liters is recommended, with intense lighting (LED or metal halide) and strong flow. Parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. It is photosynthetic but appreciates zooplankton feeding. Compatible with other SPS corals, but avoid soft corals that release toxins. Beware of polychaete worms and grazing fish.

##### [Cylindrical Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-teres)
**Acropora teres** — Acroporidae · coral
The Cylindrical Acropora is a stony coral with thick, rounded branches forming dense colonies. It is prized in aquaria for its fast growth and vibrant coloration.
This coral has robust cylindrical branches, often brown, green or bluish. The polyps are small and retractile, giving a smooth surface. It colonizes well-lit reef areas. Growth is rapid under optimal conditions. It can reach over 50 cm in diameter. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Good water flow is essential to prevent sedimentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium should be 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting (LED or T5) is required. Strong to moderate flow is recommended. Feed with zooplankton and phytoplankton. A minimum tank volume of 100 L is advised. Keep nitrates below 5 ppm and phosphates below 0.05 ppm. Compatible with other SPS corals.

##### [Twisted Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-tortuosa)
**Acropora tortuosa** — Acroporidae · coral
The Twisted Acropora is distinguished by its spiral or twisted branches, forming dense colonies. It is less common in the hobby but highly sought after for its unique shape.
The branches of this coral are irregularly twisted, often brown, green or pink. Polyps are small and spaced. It grows on reef slopes with moderate flow. Growth is moderate. It can form colonies of 30-40 cm. It is sensitive to diseases and pests. Very clean water is essential. Careful acclimation is required.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 100L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: VU
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting (LED, T5). Moderate to strong flow. Feed with zooplankton. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Avoid sudden fluctuations. Compatible with other Acropora and Montipora.

##### [Valida Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-valida)
**Acropora valida** — Acroporidae · coral
Acropora valida is a robust and common SPS coral, forming branching colonies with rounded tips. It is valued in aquaria for its fast growth and bright coloration.
Acropora valida has thick, conical branches, often brown, green or bluish with retracted polyps. Corallites are arranged in rows, giving a rough appearance. This species forms massive or corymbose colonies. It is very tolerant to parameter fluctuations. Its behavior is semi-aggressive, using sweeper tentacles to defend space. It reproduces easily by fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-8, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (LED or T5) and strong flow are required. Calcium (400-450 ppm), magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) and alkalinity (7-12 dKH) must be stable. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. A minimum tank volume of 100 L is recommended. Compatible with other SPS if enough space. Feed plankton and phytoplankton 2-3 times per week.

##### [Yong's Acropora](/encyclopedia/acropora-yongei)
**Acropora yongei** — Acroporidae · coral
Yong's Acropora is a fast-growing branching coral, often brightly colored. It is popular in the hobby for its relative hardiness.
This coral forms fine, regular branches, yellow, green or blue. Polyps are small and numerous. It colonizes well-lit reef areas. Growth is fast, up to 10 cm per year. It can reach 40 cm in diameter. It is less demanding than other Acropora. Good water flow is needed. It tolerates slightly variable parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting. Moderate to strong flow. Feed with zooplankton and phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Compatible with most SPS corals. Easy to frag.

##### [Tuberculate montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-aequituberculata)
**Montipora aequituberculata** — Acroporidae · coral
Tuberculate montipora is an encrusting or plating SPS coral with distinctive tubercles.
Montipora aequituberculata forms encrusting or plating colonies with rounded tubercles. Often brown, green, or pink. Easier to maintain for an SPS.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong lighting, moderate flow. Tolerates slightly less stable parameters than Acropora.

##### [Capricorn montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-capricornis)
**Montipora capricornis** — Acroporidae · coral
The Capricorn montipora is an SPS coral recognizable by its twisted horn-shaped or plate-like colonies. It is highly prized in reef aquariums for its fast growth and vibrant colors.
Montipora capricornis forms massive or encrusting colonies, often as horizontal plates or upright twisted horns. The polyps are very small (less than 1 mm) and retractile, giving a velvety texture. Coloration ranges from green, brown, pink to purple, often with lighter edges. Corallites are immersed in the coenosteum with indistinct walls. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but reproduction is both sexual and asexual via fragmentation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended, with intense lighting (LED or metal halide) and moderate to strong flow. Parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 mg/L, magnesium >1300 mg/L, KH 8-12 dKH. Nitrates should stay below 5 mg/L and phosphates below 0.03 mg/L. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis, but supplementation with phytoplankton or liquid coral food is beneficial. Beware of polyp stings when handling, and avoid placing it too close to aggressive corals.

##### [Dana's Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-danae)
**Montipora danae** — Acroporidae · coral
An encrusting Montipora with bright colors, often green or pink. Easy to maintain for intermediate aquarists.
Montipora danae forms encrusting or foliaceous colonies with small, tightly packed corallites. Its color is usually green, pink, or orange, sometimes with contrasting edges. The polyps are very small and extend only at night. It is a hardy coral that tolerates moderate to high light. It grows quickly and can cover rocks. It is peaceful and can be placed near other corals without conflict.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting. Moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, but may benefit from phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume: 60 liters for a frag, 150 liters for a colony. Compatible with most reef fish. Avoid coral-eating fish. Easy propagation by fragmentation.

##### [Digitata montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-digitata)
**Montipora digitata** — Acroporidae · coral
Montipora digitata is a branching SPS coral popular in reef aquaria for its fast growth and bright coloration. It requires intense lighting and moderate to strong water flow.
Montipora digitata forms branching colonies with digitate branches 1–2 cm in diameter, reaching up to 30 cm in height. The polyps are small and retractile, revealing a porous coenosteum. Coloration ranges from brown to green, pink, or orange, often with lighter tips. It is a fast-growing species, especially under optimal conditions. There is no pronounced sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction via fragmentation is common. In aquaria, it may develop sweeper tentacles at night but is generally peaceful.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for a small fragment, but 200 liters or more is preferable for a mature colony. Parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1500 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH. Intense lighting (LED or T5) and moderate to strong flow are essential. Nutrition is primarily photosynthetic, but feeding with phytoplankton or fine particulate matter can be beneficial. Beware of allelopathy with other corals; provide adequate spacing.

##### [Foliose Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-foliosa)
**Montipora foliosa** — Acroporidae · coral
Foliose Montipora forms wavy, overlapping plates resembling leaves. It is a hardy coral easy to maintain.
This coral develops foliaceous structures, often brown, green or pink. Polyps are very small, giving a velvety appearance. It grows on hard substrates on reefs. Growth is moderate to fast. It can cover large areas. It is tolerant of variable conditions. Often used as a starter coral in the hobby.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting. Moderate flow. Feed with phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Nitrates <20 ppm, phosphates <0.1 ppm. Compatible with most corals. Easy to frag.

##### [Hairy Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-hirsuta)
**Montipora hirsuta** — Acroporidae · coral
A branching Montipora with elongated corallites giving a hairy appearance. Valued for its unique texture.
Montipora hirsuta is distinguished by its thin branches and prominent tubular corallites that give it a hairy look. Its color is usually brown, green, or cream. The polyps are small and extend at night. It grows moderately fast and forms dense colonies. It prefers strong flow to prevent sediment accumulation. It is a hardy coral but requires clean, stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting. Strong flow recommended. Feeding: photosynthetic, but may accept zooplankton. Minimum tank volume: 100 liters. Compatible with peaceful reef fish. Avoid fish that nip at polyps. Propagation by branch fragmentation.

##### [Irregular Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-informis)
**Montipora informis** — Acroporidae · coral
An encrusting Montipora with irregular shapes, often brown or green. Easy to maintain and ideal for SPS beginners.
Montipora informis forms encrusting colonies with irregular outlines, sometimes with small protrusions. Its color is usually brown, beige, or dull green. The corallites are small and not very prominent. It grows slowly to moderately. It tolerates moderate light and low to moderate flow. It is a very hardy coral, suitable for less stable aquariums. It can cover rocks and walls.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Moderate to intense lighting. Low to moderate flow. Feeding: photosynthetic, no supplemental feeding required. Minimum tank volume: 40 liters for a frag. Compatible with most fish and invertebrates. Easy propagation by base fragmentation.

##### [Spongy Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-spongodes)
**Montipora spongodes** — Acroporidae · coral
Spongy Montipora forms thick, porous encrustations resembling a sponge. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners.
This encrusting coral has a spongy texture, often brown, green or purple. Polyps are tiny and scattered. It colonizes shaded reef areas. Growth is slow but steady. It can cover large rock surfaces. It is very tolerant of fluctuating parameters. Ideal for beginner reef tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Low to moderate lighting. Low to moderate flow. Feed with phytoplankton. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Nitrates <30 ppm, phosphates <0.2 ppm. Compatible with all corals. Fragmentation by cutting.

##### [Bumpy Montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-tuberculosa)
**Montipora tuberculosa** — Acroporidae · coral
A robust SPS coral with distinctive tubular corallites. Popular in reef aquaria for its fast growth and varied colors.
Montipora tuberculosa forms encrusting or branching colonies with prominent tubercle-like corallites. Its color ranges from brown to green, sometimes pink or purple. The polyps are small and retractile, visible mainly at night. It is a hardy coral that tolerates slightly less stable conditions than other SPS. It grows quickly in calcium-rich and alkaline water. Its behavior is peaceful, but it can be sensitive to sudden parameter swings.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stable parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm. Intense lighting (LED or metal halide) required for growth and coloration. Moderate to strong flow recommended. Feeding: photosynthetic, but appreciates phytoplankton and zooplankton supplements 1-2 times per week. Minimum tank volume: 80 liters for a small frag, 200 liters for a colony. Compatible with most reef fish and peaceful invertebrates. Avoid coral-eating fish. Easy to propagate by fragmentation.

##### [Wart-like montipora](/encyclopedia/montipora-verrucosa)
**Montipora verrucosa** — Acroporidae · coral
Wart-like montipora is an encrusting SPS coral with warts or nodules.
Montipora verrucosa forms encrusting colonies with warty protrusions. Various colors: brown, green, purple. It is a robust coral for SPS beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Moderate lighting, moderate flow. Tolerant to slight variations.

##### [Cauliflower coral](/encyclopedia/pocillopora-damicornis)
**Pocillopora damicornis** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Cauliflower coral is a common SPS branching coral in reef aquariums, recognizable by its thick branches and prominent polyps. It is photosynthetic and requires intense lighting and moderate to strong flow.
Pocillopora damicornis forms massive or branching colonies with thick, rounded branches resembling cauliflower. The polyps are large and often visible, with short tentacles. Coloration ranges from light brown to pink, green, or purple, often with lighter tips. It has sweeper tentacles that can damage neighboring corals. Sexual dimorphism is not apparent, but asexual reproduction by fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter tank is recommended, with intense lighting (LED or metal halide) and moderate to strong flow. Stable parameters are essential: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Nitrates should remain below 5 ppm and phosphates below 0.05 ppm. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts microplankton. Beware of sweeper tentacles: space it at least 10 cm from other corals. Avoid sudden parameter swings.

##### [Eydoux's Pocillopora](/encyclopedia/pocillopora-eydouxi)
**Pocillopora eydouxi** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching coral with thin, highly branched stems forming dense bushes. Valued in aquaria for its fast growth.
Pocillopora eydouxi is distinguished by its thin, highly divided branches, often broom-shaped. Polyps are small and numerous, giving a velvety appearance. Color is usually brown, green or pale pink. It colonizes high-current areas forming large colonies. Its symbiosis with zooxanthelles provides most of its energy. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations. In aquaria, it requires intense lighting and strong water movement.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (PAR >250) essential. Strong to very strong flow recommended. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Beware of sudden parameter changes. Compatible with other hard corals if enough space. Easy fragmentation. Adult size up to 40 cm.

##### [Meandering Pocillopora](/encyclopedia/pocillopora-meandrina)
**Pocillopora meandrina** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching coral forming massive colonies with thick, rounded branches. Very common in Indo-Pacific reefs.
Pocillopora meandrina is a colonial scleractinian coral with robust, often meandering branches. The polyps are small and retractile, giving a rough texture to the surface. Color ranges from light brown to pink, often with lighter tips. It can withstand moderate to strong currents. This species hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae. Its growth is relatively fast in aquariums. It can reach 50 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (LED or T5) is required. Strong water flow is recommended to mimic its natural habitat. Nitrate levels should stay below 10 ppm, phosphates below 0.1 ppm. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1300-1400 ppm) are essential. It is moderately aggressive towards other corals, so provide spacing. Propagation by fragmentation is easy.

##### [Wart coral](/encyclopedia/pocillopora-verrucosa)
**Pocillopora verrucosa** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching SPS coral with distinctive wart-like bumps, very popular in reef aquariums.
Pocillopora verrucosa is a common SPS coral in Indo-Pacific reefs. Its branches are covered with small wart-like bumps. Colors include pink, purple, green, and brown. Moderately difficult to keep, requiring intense lighting and strong flow. Can be sensitive to parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 150L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-26°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12. Lighting PAR 300-400. Strong flow. Feed with zooplankton 2-3 times per week. Avoid high nitrates.

##### [Birdsnest Coral](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-aculeata)
**Seriatopora aculeata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Very fine branching coral forming dense bushes resembling a bird's nest. Very popular in aquaria.
Seriatopora aculeata has extremely thin and pointed branches, densely branched, giving a bird's nest appearance. Polyps are tiny and retractile. Color ranges from brown to green, sometimes pink or purple. It grows quickly under good conditions. It is more robust than other Seriatopora. It tolerates moderate to strong flow. Its symbiosis with zooxanthellae is very efficient.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 200-300). Moderate to strong flow. Nitrates <10 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. More tolerant than other Seriatopora. Beware of fragile tips during cleaning. Compatible with most reef fish. Easy fragmentation.

##### [Caliendrum bird's nest](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-caliendrum)
**Seriatopora caliendrum** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Delicate SPS coral with a bird's nest shape, fine pointed branches.
Seriatopora caliendrum is a fine-branching SPS coral forming dense colonies resembling a bird's nest. Branches are thin and taper to points. Colors range from pale pink to purple, sometimes green. It is more sensitive than other Pocilloporidae and requires very stable water, moderate to high lighting, and moderate flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 120L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-26°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12. Lighting PAR 250-350. Moderate flow. Feed with phytoplankton. Avoid sudden parameter changes.

##### [Dendritic Seriatopora](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-dendritica)
**Seriatopora dendritica** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching coral with irregular ramifications resembling miniature trees. Valued for its elegant shape.
Seriatopora dendritica is characterized by thin, highly branched stems forming a dendritic (tree-like) structure. Polyps are aligned along the branches, giving a ribbed appearance. Color is often brown, beige or green. It grows in spreading colonies. It is more tolerant of moderate flow than S. stellata. Growth is slow to moderate. It requires oligotrophic water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 150-200). Moderate flow, avoid dead spots. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.03 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Sensitive to nutrient excess. Compatible with peaceful reef fish. Fragmentation possible but delicate. Adult size 20-30 cm.

##### [Birdsnest Coral](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-guttata)
**Seriatopora guttata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Delicate SPS coral forming fine branching colonies. Requires very stable water parameters and intense lighting.
Seriatopora guttata is an SPS coral with thin, pointed branches, often pink, purple or green. The polyps are small and retractile, giving a fuzzy appearance. It grows quickly under optimal conditions. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations and diseases. In aquaria, it is prized for its elegant structure. It can form dense bush-like colonies.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8-8.4, GH 7-9, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Intense lighting (PAR 250-350) is required. Strong turbulent flow is recommended. Calcium (400-450 ppm) and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) levels must be stable. Alkalinity should be kept between 8-12 dKH. Keep nitrates <5 ppm and phosphates <0.03 ppm. Targeted feeding with zooplankton can be beneficial. This coral is sensitive to stress and requires slow acclimation.

##### [Bird's nest coral](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-hystrix)
**Seriatopora hystrix** — Pocilloporidae · coral
The Bird's nest coral is a highly sought-after SPS coral in reef aquariums for its fast growth and vibrant color. It forms dense, bird's nest-like colonies.
Seriatopora hystrix forms bushy, branching colonies with thin, pointed branches. The polyps are small and retractile, often visible during the day. Coloration ranges from pink to purple, sometimes green or cream. It exhibits strong sexual dimorphism in reproductive polyps. Branches can reach 30 cm in length in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This coral requires a mature reef tank with intense lighting (Metal Halide or powerful LEDs) and strong turbulent flow. Parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 mg/L, magnesium >1300 mg/L, KH 8-12 dKH. It is sensitive to nitrate and phosphate fluctuations (NO3 <10 ppm, PO4 <0.05 ppm). Beware of stinging tentacles at night: space it from other corals. Propagation by fragging is easy.

##### [Stellate Seriatopora](/encyclopedia/seriatopora-stellata)
**Seriatopora stellata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
Branching coral with thin, pointed branches forming star-like structures. Popular in aquaria for its delicate shape.
Seriatopora stellata has very thin branches, often arranged in a star shape, with sharp tips. Polyps are small and retractile, revealing aligned corallites. Color ranges from light brown to green, sometimes with purple tips. It grows in dense, compact colonies. It is less tolerant of strong currents than Pocillopora. Growth is moderate. It requires very stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate to intense lighting (PAR 150-250). Moderate flow, avoid direct jets. Nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Sensitive to temperature and salinity fluctuations. Fragile, handle with care. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by fragmentation is delicate.

##### [Pistillata stylophora](/encyclopedia/stylophora-pistillata)
**Stylophora pistillata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
The Stylophora is a branching SPS coral highly valued in reef aquariums for its fast growth and vibrant colors. It requires intense lighting and stable water conditions.
Stylophora pistillata forms bushy colonies with thick, rounded branches reaching 30–40 cm in diameter. The polyps are small, retractable, and coloration ranges from pink to purple, sometimes green or brown. Branch tips are often lighter. This species has stinging sweeper tentacles that extend at night to defend its space. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but asexual reproduction via fragmentation is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 35cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 100 liters, with intense lighting (LED or metal halide) and moderate to strong flow. Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, KH 8-12 dKH, nitrates <5 ppm, phosphates <0.05 ppm. Feeding: photosynthetic, but may benefit from phytoplankton or fine zooplankton. Beware of stinging tentacles: space at least 10 cm from other corals. Sensitive to parameter fluctuations.

##### [Subseriata stylophora](/encyclopedia/stylophora-subseriata)
**Stylophora subseriata** — Pocilloporidae · coral
A hardy SPS coral with thick, rounded branches, suitable for intermediate reef keepers.
Stylophora subseriata is an SPS coral from the Pocilloporidae family. It forms massive or branching colonies with inconspicuous corallites. Coloration ranges from brown to green, sometimes with pink or purple tips. It is relatively tolerant of parameter fluctuations, making it a good choice for SPS beginners. Requires moderate to high lighting and moderate water flow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-26°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12. Lighting PAR 200-300. Moderate flow. Feed with phytoplankton or liquid coral foods 1-2 times per week.

##### [Achilles tang](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-achilles)
**Acanthurus achilles** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Achilles tang is a surgeonfish with a black body, a bright orange patch at the base of the caudal fin, and a highly developed caudal spine.
This fish reaches 25 cm in length. Its body is oval and compressed, velvety black. A bright orange teardrop-shaped patch adorns the base of the caudal fin, and an orange band edged in white appears on the dorsal fin. The caudal spine is particularly long and sharp. It is a herbivore that feeds on algae. It is very active and requires strong water flow. It is territorial and aggressive towards other surgeonfish. In an aquarium, it requires a large volume and highly oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 25cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 500 liters is essential. Temperature 24-28 °C, pH 8.1-8.4. The diet must be rich in algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetables. Strong water flow is necessary to mimic its natural habitat. It is sensitive to ich and stress. Avoid keeping it with other surgeonfish. It can coexist with robust, active fish. Captive breeding is unknown.

##### [Japanese Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-japonicus)
**Acanthurus japonicus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Japanese Surgeonfish is a colorful reef fish with a blue and yellow pattern. It is popular in marine aquariums for its beauty and active behavior.
This fish has an oval, laterally compressed body, dark blue to violet with a broad yellow stripe on the back and a bright yellow caudal fin. A sharp white spine is present on the caudal peduncle, typical of surgeonfish. Juveniles are duller. It grows up to 21 cm. It is diurnal and grazes on algae on rocks. It can become territorial towards conspecifics. In an aquarium, it requires good water flow and high water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 21cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 300 liters is recommended for one specimen. It is herbivorous: feed with dried algae (nori), spirulina-based flakes, and blanched vegetables. Avoid excess animal protein. It can coexist with other peaceful fish but may be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. Provide hiding places and open swimming space. A protein skimmer is essential. Keep parameters stable with nitrates <20 mg/L and phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate lighting and moderate to strong water flow are appreciated.

##### [Lined Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-lineatus)
**Acanthurus lineatus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Lined Surgeonfish has a distinctive pattern of blue and yellow lines. It is active and requires a large aquarium.
This surgeonfish has an elongated body with alternating horizontal blue and yellow lines, a yellow crescent-shaped caudal fin. It can reach 38 cm. The caudal spine is very sharp. It lives in groups in the wild but becomes aggressive in captivity. It grazes on filamentous algae. Its coloration intensifies with age. It is a hardy fish but prone to skin diseases if water quality is poor.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 38cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 500-liter tank is required for an adult. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Herbivorous diet: algae, vegetables, spirulina. Avoid excess protein. It is aggressive towards other surgeonfish and similarly shaped fish. Introduce it last into the aquarium. A powerful skimmer and efficient filtration are essential. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate to strong current. It needs hiding places but also swimming space.

##### [Whitecheek surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-nigricans)
**Acanthurus nigricans** — Acanthuridae · fish
Black surgeonfish with a distinctive white cheek patch. Active and requires a large aquarium.
Acanthurus nigricans is a surgeonfish with an oval, laterally compressed body, dark brown to black, with a large white patch on the cheek and a white band at the base of the tail. It has a sharp caudal spine on each side of the caudal peduncle. In the aquarium, it is active and needs plenty of swimming space. It is a herbivore that grazes on algae on rocks and decor. It can become territorial with other surgeonfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 25cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 500 liters with good filtration and strong water movement. Live rock for grazing. Diet rich in algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetable supplements. Caution with caudal spines during handling.

##### [Orange-shoulder Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-olivaceus)
**Acanthurus olivaceus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Orange-shoulder Surgeonfish is distinguished by a bright orange patch behind the eye. It is a peaceful fish for large aquariums.
This fish has an oval body, gray-blue with a large orange crescent-shaped patch on the upper flank just behind the gill cover. The caudal fin is bluish. It grows up to 35 cm. Juveniles are yellow with blue spots. It is less aggressive than other surgeonfish. It feeds on benthic algae. In the aquarium, it is active and requires good water flow. It can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 400L, Size 35cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 400-liter tank. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, vegetables. Supplement with vitamin-enriched foods. It is compatible with most reef fish, but avoid other surgeonfish if space is limited. A protein skimmer is recommended. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate current. It appreciates live rock for grazing. Be careful of jumping: cover the tank.

##### [Chocolate Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-pyroferus)
**Acanthurus pyroferus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Chocolate Surgeonfish is named for its dark brown color. It is less common in aquariums but highly valued for its unique hue.
This fish has an oval body, chocolate brown to blackish, with a white-edged caudal fin. It can reach 25 cm. Juveniles mimic dwarf angelfish (Centropyge) for protection. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial. It grazes on algae on hard substrates. In the aquarium, it is active and requires good water flow. Its color may fade if water quality is poor.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 300-liter tank. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina. It may occasionally accept meaty foods but prefer vegetables. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid conspecifics. A protein skimmer is necessary. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate to strong current. It needs live rock for grazing. Be aware of skin diseases under stress.

##### [Convict Surgeonfish](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-triostegus)
**Acanthurus triostegus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Convict Surgeonfish is easily recognized by its six vertical black bars. It is a hardy and active fish.
This fish has an oval silvery-white body with six vertical black bars, hence the name convict. The caudal fin is slightly forked. It grows up to 27 cm. It lives in large schools in the wild. In the aquarium, it is gregarious and less aggressive than other surgeonfish. It grazes on algae on rocks. Its coloration can vary with mood. It is an excellent fish for marine beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 300L, Size 27cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 300-liter tank, but a group needs 600 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, vegetables. It can be fed several times a day. Compatible with most fish, but avoid predators. It is less territorial, but may show aggression towards conspecifics if space is insufficient. A protein skimmer is recommended. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Moderate current. It enjoys live rock for grazing.

##### [Clown Triggerfish](/encyclopedia/balistoides-conspicillum)
**Balistoides conspicillum** — Balistidae · fish
Striking black and white triggerfish with yellow spots, very popular but aggressive.
The clown triggerfish has a robust body, black with large white spots on the belly and a yellow saddle on the back. Its mouth is powerful with strong teeth. It is known for its territorial and aggressive behavior, especially towards other triggerfish. It can move rocks and decorations. In aquariums, it requires a large volume and strong filtration. It can reach 50 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 600L, Size 50cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 600 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: carnivorous, feed shrimp, fish, mussels, and frozen foods. Very aggressive, should not be kept with shy or small fish. May bite cables and pipes. Not recommended for reef tanks as it eats invertebrates. Needs hiding places and ample swimming space.

##### [Bicolor angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-bicolor)
**Centropyge bicolor** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The bicolor angelfish is a small dwarf angelfish very colorful, with a yellow front half and a dark blue rear half. It is popular in reef aquariums but can be territorial.
This dwarf angelfish reaches about 15 cm in adulthood. Its distinctive coloration makes it easily recognizable: the head and anterior part of the body are bright yellow, while the posterior part and caudal fin are dark blue. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in blue. It has a laterally compressed body and a small mouth. It is an active fish that constantly explores rocks in search of food. It can be aggressive towards other angelfish and similarly shaped fish. In the aquarium, it adapts well but requires a varied diet.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is recommended. The aquarium should have plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding places. It is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency: offer algae (nori, spirulina), mysis, brine shrimp, and angelfish pellets. It can be kept alone or as a pair in a large tank. Avoid housing it with other Centropyge or overly passive fish. It may nip at soft corals and polyps, so monitoring is needed. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. It is sensitive to water quality, especially nitrates.

##### [Coral beauty angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-bispinosa)
**Centropyge bispinosa** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Small orange and blue dwarf angelfish with vertical stripes. Very colorful and popular.
The coral beauty angelfish grows up to 10 cm. Its body is bright orange with vertical blue stripes. The dorsal fin is edged in blue. It is an active and curious fish, but can be territorial towards other dwarf angelfish. It is generally compatible with soft corals but may nip at some hard corals. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 200 liters. Omnivorous: algae, brine shrimp, mysis, spirulina. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid other dwarf angelfish in a small tank. Can be kept alone or in pairs. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Lemonpeel angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-flavissima)
**Centropyge flavissima** — Pomacanthidae · fish
A beautiful dwarf angelfish entirely yellow with a blue ring around the eye. Highly prized in reef aquariums.
Centropyge flavissima is a dwarf angelfish with a bright yellow body, blue margins on the dorsal and anal fins, and a characteristic blue ring around the eye. It reaches about 14 cm. It is found on Indo-Pacific reefs, often in small groups. In aquariums, it is active and requires a well-established tank with live rock for grazing. It can be sensitive to water quality changes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 14cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 150 L with live rock and hiding spots. Very stable water, nitrates <10 ppm. Varied diet: algae, spirulina, mysis, brine shrimp. Avoid soft corals as it may nip.

##### [Flame angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-loricula)
**Centropyge loricula** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The flame angelfish is a small dwarf angelfish with a bright orange-red body and vertical black bars. It is one of the most popular angelfish in marine aquariums.
This fish reaches about 12 cm in adulthood. Its base color is a brilliant orange-red, crossed by four to five vertical black bars. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in electric blue. The caudal fin is translucent yellow. It has a laterally compressed body and a small mouth. It is an active and curious fish, spending its time grazing algae on rocks. It can be territorial towards other angelfish. In the aquarium, it is generally hardy but requires careful acclimation. It is considered relatively reef-safe, but may nip at some soft corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 150 liters is recommended. The aquarium should be well decorated with live rock for grazing and hiding places. It is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency: algae (nori, spirulina), mysis, brine shrimp, and angelfish-specific foods. It can be kept alone or as a pair. Avoid cohabitation with other Centropyge or similarly shaped fish. It is generally compatible with peaceful fish. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. It is sensitive to high nitrates and phosphates. Slow acclimation is recommended to reduce stress.

##### [Multicolor angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-multicolor)
**Centropyge multicolor** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The multicolor angelfish is a small dwarf angelfish with bright and varied colors, mixing blue, yellow, orange and purple. It is less common in the hobby but highly sought after.
This fish reaches about 9 cm in adulthood. Its coloration is a complex mix: the head and back are bright yellow, the belly is blue-violet, and the flanks show orange and blue hues. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in electric blue. The caudal fin is translucent yellow. It has a laterally compressed body and a small mouth. It is an active and curious fish, grazing algae on rocks. It is territorial but can coexist with other peaceful fish. In the aquarium, it is hardy but requires a varied diet. It is considered reef-safe with caution.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 9cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 150 liters is recommended. The aquarium should have plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding places. It is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency: algae (nori, spirulina), mysis, brine shrimp, and specific foods. It can be kept alone or as a pair. Avoid cohabitation with other Centropyge. It is compatible with peaceful fish. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. It is sensitive to water quality, especially nitrates. Slow acclimation is recommended.

##### [Midnight angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-nox)
**Centropyge nox** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The midnight angelfish is a small angelfish with a uniformly black body, highly prized in marine aquariums for its sober color and active behavior.
Centropyge nox has an entirely black body without distinctive markings, with slightly darker fins. Juveniles are identical to adults. It reaches a maximum size of about 10 cm. It is a shy but curious fish, spending its time exploring crevices in the decor. It can become territorial towards other small angelfish. In the aquarium, it is generally peaceful with unrelated species. Its diet is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency, grazing algae on rocks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-10, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is recommended for one specimen. The aquarium should have plenty of hiding places and live rock for grazing. It is sensitive to sudden parameter changes. Feed with spirulina-based foods, enriched brine shrimp, and mysis. Avoid keeping it with aggressive other Centropyge. It can be kept in a reef tank with caution as it may nip at some soft corals. Efficient filtration and moderate lighting are suitable.

##### [Keyhole angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-tibicen)
**Centropyge tibicen** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The keyhole angelfish is recognized by its characteristic white spot on the back, resembling a keyhole.
Centropyge tibicen has a blue-black body with a large oval white spot on the mid-back, surrounded by blue. The fins are edged with electric blue. It grows up to 12 cm. It is an active and curious fish, often seen swimming among corals. It can be territorial towards conspecifics but tolerates other species. In the aquarium, it needs plenty of hiding places. Its diet is omnivorous, with a preference for algae. It is considered relatively hardy once acclimated.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-10, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 250 liters is recommended. Provide a rocky decor with crevices. It can be kept in a reef tank but may nip at some soft corals and polyps. Feed with dried algae, brine shrimp, mysis, and spirulina-based preparations. Avoid cohabitation with overly aggressive other Centropyge. Good filtration and moderate water flow are necessary. It is sensitive to water quality, especially nitrates.

##### [Pearlscale angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-vrolikii)
**Centropyge vrolikii** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The pearlscale angelfish is named for its pearly scales that give it a pearl-like appearance, with a blue-gray coloration and silvery reflections.
Centropyge vrolikii has a blue-gray body with white-edged scales, creating a reticulated pattern. The head is darker, the fins are blue with light edges. It reaches 12 cm. It is an active and relatively peaceful fish, but may defend its territory. It spends a lot of time grazing algae on rocks. In the aquarium, it adapts well and can be kept in a group if space is sufficient. It is sensitive to skin diseases if water quality is poor.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 6-10, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Minimum tank volume 250 liters. A decor with live rock and hiding places is essential. It can coexist with other similarly sized angelfish if introduced together. Feed with algae, brine shrimp, mysis, and herbivore pellets. It is generally safe for hard corals but may nibble soft corals. Powerful filtration and moderate flow are recommended. Perform regular water changes.

##### [Threadfin Butterflyfish](/encyclopedia/chaetodon-auriga)
**Chaetodon auriga** — Chaetodontidae · fish
The Threadfin Butterflyfish is an elegant fish with a long filamentous dorsal fin. It is popular in marine aquariums but requires a spacious tank.
Chaetodon auriga has a laterally compressed body and white coloration with oblique black bands. A long filamentous extension of the dorsal fin is characteristic. It has a black spot on the caudal peduncle. It is active and swims throughout the water column. In an aquarium, it may be shy at first but acclimates. It feeds on coral polyps, anemones, and small invertebrates. It is generally peaceful but may become territorial towards other butterflyfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is recommended for this butterflyfish. It prefers good water quality with stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is omnivorous and accepts a variety of frozen and dry foods, but may be difficult to feed initially. It is best kept alone or as a pair in a species-specific tank. Avoid aggressive fish. It may nip at soft corals and anemones, so not recommended for reefs. Vitamin-enriched food is beneficial. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Raccoon Butterflyfish](/encyclopedia/chaetodon-lunula)
**Chaetodon lunula** — Chaetodontidae · fish
The Raccoon Butterflyfish is recognizable by its black and white facial mask. It is a robust and popular aquarium fish.
Chaetodon lunula has a yellow-orange body with vertical black bands. A broad black band crosses the eye, resembling a raccoon mask. The dorsal fin is edged in black. It is active and curious, often swimming in groups in the wild. In an aquarium, it adapts well and accepts a wide variety of foods. It can be kept with other peaceful fish. It tends to nip at corals and invertebrates, so not recommended for reefs. Its lifespan can reach 10 years in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is necessary. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is omnivorous and accepts frozen, dry, and live foods. Variety in diet is important. It can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough. Avoid aggressive fish. It is sensitive to water quality; efficient filtration is required. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Deepwater fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-bathyphilus)
**Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus** — Labridae · fish
The deepwater fairy wrasse is a rare and poorly known species living in mesophotic zones.
This fish has an elongated body with bright colors, often vivid red and orange, with translucent fins. It is adapted to deep life, with relatively large eyes. It feeds on zooplankton and small invertebrates. Its behavior is similar to other Cirrhilabrus, but it is more sensitive to parameter changes. In an aquarium, it requires careful acclimation and stable conditions. It is rarely available in the trade.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: DD
Temperature 24-26°C (cooler than surface species), pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026. A minimum 300-liter tank is recommended due to its sensitivity. Varied diet: mysis, enriched brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Compatible with calm fish, avoid aggressive species. A lid is necessary. Parameters must be very stable: nitrates < 10 mg/L, phosphates < 0.03 mg/L. Low to moderate lighting is preferred. Powerful filtration and a protein skimmer are essential.

##### [Purple fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-blatteus)
**Cirrhilabrus blatteus** — Labridae · fish
The purple fairy wrasse is a wrasse with purple and blue hues, very decorative.
This fish has an elongated body with a dominant purplish-violet color, blue reflections, and fins often edged in yellow. Adult males have highly developed dorsal and anal fins. It is active and swims in open water, feeding on zooplankton. It is a diurnal species that hides in crevices at night. It is generally peaceful, but males can be territorial. In an aquarium, it adapts well and is compatible with most reef fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended. Varied diet: mysis, brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid aggressive wrasses. A lid is necessary. Parameters must be stable: nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.05 mg/L. Moderate lighting and good filtration are suitable. It may jump, so a lid is essential.

##### [Blue-sided fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-cyanopleura)
**Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura** — Labridae · fish
The blue-sided fairy wrasse is a brightly colored wrasse appreciated for its active behavior.
This fish has an elongated body with bright blue sides contrasting with an orange-red back. The fins are often edged in yellow. Dominant males develop longer dorsal and anal fins. It is very active and swims in open water, feeding on zooplankton. It is a gregarious species that can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough. It is generally peaceful, but males can be aggressive toward each other.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended. Varied diet: mysis, brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid aggressive wrasses. A lid is necessary. Parameters must be stable: nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.05 mg/L. Moderate lighting and good filtration are recommended. It may jump, so a lid is essential.

##### [Exquisite fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-exquisitus)
**Cirrhilabrus exquisitus** — Labridae · fish
The exquisite fairy wrasse is a small wrasse with shimmering colors, very popular in aquariums.
This fish has an elongated body with iridescent reflections ranging from green to blue and red. Males have highly developed dorsal and anal fins, often edged in yellow or white. It is active and swims in open water, feeding on zooplankton. It is a diurnal species that hides in rocks at night. It is generally peaceful, but males can be territorial. In an aquarium, it adapts well and can be kept in groups if space allows.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended. Varied diet: mysis, brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid aggressive wrasses. A lid is necessary. Parameters must be stable: nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.05 mg/L. Moderate lighting and good filtration are sufficient. It may jump, so a lid is essential.

##### [Lubbock's fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-lubbocki)
**Cirrhilabrus lubbocki** — Labridae · fish
Lubbock's fairy wrasse is a small, highly colorful reef fish prized by aquarists. It is peaceful and ideal for community reef tanks.
This Cirrhilabrus reaches up to 8 cm. Males display a brilliant coloration with red, orange, blue and purple hues, while females are duller. The dorsal fin is tall and pointed in males. It is a diurnal fish that swims in open water and takes refuge in crevices at night. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It feeds on zooplankton and small crustaceans. In aquariums, it is prized for its beauty and peaceful behavior. It may jump, so a lid is important.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume 200 liters. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, mysis, copepods, enriched flake food. It is very peaceful and compatible with most reef fish. Avoid aggressive tankmates. A lid is mandatory. It needs hiding places (live rock). It can be kept in pairs or harems if the tank is large enough. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.05 mg/L. Stable, high-quality water is crucial.

##### [Scott's fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-scottorum)
**Cirrhilabrus scottorum** — Labridae · fish
Scott's fairy wrasse is a spectacular reef fish with vivid colors, endemic to the South Pacific. It is peaceful and suitable for reef aquariums.
This Cirrhilabrus reaches 10 cm. Males have a red-orange body with blue highlights and a highly developed dorsal fin. Females are more discreet, often pale pink. It lives in small groups in current-prone areas. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It feeds on zooplankton. In aquariums, it is active and requires ample swimming space. It is sensitive to water quality. It may jump, so a lid is essential. Its coloration intensifies with a good diet.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume 250 liters. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, mysis, copepods, quality flake food. It is peaceful and compatible with most reef fish. Avoid aggressive species. A lid is mandatory. It needs live rock for hiding and open space for swimming. It can be kept in a harem. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.05 mg/L. Stable, well-oxygenated water is crucial.

##### [Temminck's fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-temminckii)
**Cirrhilabrus temminckii** — Labridae · fish
Temminck's fairy wrasse is a small, colorful wrasse highly sought after in reef aquariums.
This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body with bright colors ranging from orange-red to electric blue. Adult males display highly developed dorsal and anal fins. It is active and swims mainly in the water column, occasionally hiding in crevices. It is a diurnal species that feeds on zooplankton. Males can be territorial with each other. In an aquarium, it is generally peaceful with other species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is recommended. Feed a varied diet: mysis, brine shrimp, small crustaceans, and marine fish preparations. It is compatible with most reef fish, but avoid keeping it with aggressive wrasses. A lid is necessary as it may jump. Water parameters must be stable, with nitrates below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.05 mg/L. Efficient filtration and moderate lighting are suitable.

##### [Chevron Tang](/encyclopedia/ctenochaetus-hawaiiensis)
**Ctenochaetus hawaiiensis** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Chevron Tang is a semi-aggressive herbivorous fish, recognizable by its chevron patterns on the body. It requires a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space.
The body is oval, dark brown to black with light chevron-shaped lines. The fins are edged in blue. Juveniles are more colorful with more contrasted patterns. It has a sharp caudal spine. It is an active swimmer that constantly explores the decor. In the aquarium, it can become territorial towards other surgeonfish. It feeds mainly on benthic algae.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 400-liter aquarium is advised. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina, vegetable supplements. Be careful with compatibility: avoid multiple males or similar species in a small volume. Provide hiding places and live rock. Strong filtration and moderate to strong flow are recommended. Nitrates should remain <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L.

##### [Kole Tang](/encyclopedia/ctenochaetus-strigosus)
**Ctenochaetus strigosus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Kole Tang is a peaceful herbivorous fish, ideal for reef aquariums. It is distinguished by its fine horizontal lines on the body and yellow eyes.
The body is oval and laterally compressed, brown-green with light horizontal lines. The eyes are surrounded by a bright yellow ring. The caudal fin is crescent-shaped. It has a sharp caudal spine on each side of the tail. Juveniles have brighter coloration. In the aquarium, it is active and constantly swims in search of food. It is a gregarious fish that can live in groups in a large volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 300-liter aquarium is recommended for one specimen. It is herbivorous and should be fed algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetable-based preparations. Avoid aggressive tankmates; it gets along with peaceful fish. A setup with live rock and hiding places is appreciated. Water quality must be excellent with nitrates <20 mg/L and phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Good oxygenation and moderate flow are necessary.

##### [Tomini Tang](/encyclopedia/ctenochaetus-tominiensis)
**Ctenochaetus tominiensis** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Tomini Tang is a peaceful herbivorous fish, appreciated for its bright coloration and active behavior. It is suitable for community reef aquariums.
The body is oval, brown-yellow with blue spots on the head and back. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in blue. The tail is lyre-shaped. It has a yellow caudal spine. Juveniles have a black spot on the dorsal fin. It is a curious and sociable fish, often seen grazing on algae. It can coexist with other peaceful species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 300-liter aquarium is recommended. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina, blanched vegetables. It is generally peaceful but may show slight territoriality towards conspecifics. A setup with live rock and open swimming areas is ideal. Good filtration and moderate flow are necessary. Keep nitrates <20 mg/L and phosphates <0.1 mg/L.

##### [Fingered Dragonet](/encyclopedia/dactylopus-dactylopus)
**Dactylopus dactylopus** — Callionymidae · fish
The Fingered Dragonet is a small bottom-dwelling fish with an elongated body and finger-like pectoral fins. It is valued for its ability to feed on small invertebrates in the sand.
Dactylopus dactylopus has an elongated body and a broad head with prominent eyes. Its pectoral fins are modified into finger-like structures that allow it to move along the substrate. Coloration is variable, often brown or gray with patterns of spots and lines. It is a peaceful bottom-dweller that spends most of its time foraging for food in the sand. It can be kept in a reef aquarium but requires abundant live food. Its behavior is generally non-aggressive towards other fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
This dragonet requires an aquarium of at least 200 liters with a fine sandy substrate to allow foraging. It is essential to maintain a population of copepods and other microfauna in the tank, as it feeds exclusively on live prey. Supplemental feeding with brine shrimp or mysis may be attempted, but it is difficult to wean. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and reef invertebrates. Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish. Captive breeding is rare but possible under optimal conditions.

##### [Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish](/encyclopedia/forcipiger-flavissimus)
**Forcipiger flavissimus** — Chaetodontidae · fish
Bright yellow longnose butterflyfish, popular in marine aquariums.
This fish has a laterally compressed body, bright yellow with a black vertical band through the eye and a black spot on the dorsal fin. Its snout is elongated into a forceps-like shape, allowing it to feed on small invertebrates in crevices. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial with conspecifics. In aquariums, it requires a varied diet and excellent water quality. It can reach 22 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 22cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 300 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: omnivorous, will accept frozen foods, brine shrimp, mysis, and spirulina-based preparations. Sensitive to water quality and diseases. Compatible with other peaceful fish but not with other butterflyfish. Avoid shrimp and tubeworms as they may be eaten. Can be kept in reef tanks with caution.

##### [Lamarck's Angelfish](/encyclopedia/genicanthus-lamarck)
**Genicanthus lamarck** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Lamarck's Angelfish is a slender and peaceful angelfish, ideal for community reef aquariums. It is distinguished by its long lyre-shaped caudal fins.
Genicanthus lamarck has an elongated, compressed body, with a forked caudal fin bearing filamentous extensions. Males have a white body with vertical black bars and a yellow spot on the back; females are darker with white spots. This species reaches 20 cm. It is gregarious and can be kept in groups. Its diet is planktivorous, feeding on zooplankton and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it is very active and swims in open water. It is one of the easiest angelfish to keep.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 250 liters is recommended. Prefer an elongated tank with good flow. Diet should be rich in plankton, brine shrimp, and mysis. It can coexist with other peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive angelfish. Water parameters must be stable, nitrates <20 mg/L. Moderate lighting is suitable. Captive breeding is possible but rare.

##### [Blackspot Angelfish](/encyclopedia/genicanthus-melanospilos)
**Genicanthus melanospilos** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The Blackspot Angelfish is an elegant and peaceful angelfish, recognizable by the black spot on its flank. It is suitable for community reef aquariums.
Genicanthus melanospilos has an elongated, compressed body with a lyre-shaped caudal fin. Males are white with black bars and a large oval black spot on the mid-body; females are grayish with black spots. This species reaches 20 cm. It is gregarious and can be kept in small groups. Its diet is planktivorous, feeding on zooplankton. In aquariums, it is active and swims in open water. It is a hardy and easy-to-acclimate species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 20cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 250 liters is recommended. Provide good flow and open swimming areas. Diet should be planktivorous, with brine shrimp, mysis, and plankton-based preparations. It is compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid territorial angelfish. Nitrates should remain <20 mg/L. Moderate lighting is sufficient. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Two-spot wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-biocellatus)
**Halichoeres biocellatus** — Labridae · fish
The Two-spot wrasse is named after the two black ocelli on its dorsal fin. It is a lively and colorful fish, suitable for community marine aquariums.
This small wrasse has an elongated body and an olive-green to brownish base color. It is distinguished by two black spots ringed with blue on the posterior part of the dorsal fin. Males display brighter colors with blue lines on the head. The caudal fin is rounded. It feeds on small benthic invertebrates that it dislodges from sand and rocks. It is an active fish that constantly swims in search of food. It buries itself in the sand for protection and sleep. Its behavior is generally peaceful, but it can be territorial towards other wrasses.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 150 liters with a sandy substrate is necessary. Ideal temperature is 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. This wrasse is carnivorous and enjoys frozen foods such as mysis, brine shrimp and small crustaceans. It can be kept alone or as a pair if the tank is spacious. It cohabits well with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid dwarf shrimp and small crabs. Moderate lighting and moderate to strong flow are recommended. Weekly water changes of 10% are sufficient.

##### [Yellow Wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-chrysus)
**Halichoeres chrysus** — Labridae · fish
The Yellow Wrasse is a small, active, and colorful wrasse, ideal for reef aquariums. It is known for its burrowing behavior and appetite for parasites.
Halichoeres chrysus has an elongated, fusiform body, with a bright yellow coloration over the entire body, sometimes with blue lines on the head. Adult males develop more orange hues. This species reaches 12 cm. It is diurnal and spends the night buried in the sand. It feeds on small crustaceans, worms, and parasites. In aquariums, it is very active and constantly swims in search of food. It is an excellent fish for pest control such as flatworms. It may jump, so a lid is necessary.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is sufficient, with a sandy substrate at least 5 cm deep to allow burrowing. Diet should be carnivorous, with brine shrimp, mysis, and small crustaceans. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish. Water parameters must be stable, nitrates <20 mg/L. Moderate lighting and flow are suitable. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Iridescent wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-iridis)
**Halichoeres iridis** — Labridae · fish
The Iridescent wrasse gets its name from its shimmering reflections that change with lighting. It is an active and hardy fish, ideal for reef aquariums.
This wrasse has an elongated body and highly variable coloration, ranging from olive green to bright blue with horizontal bands. Dominant males display iridescent shades of pink, purple and gold. The head is marked with fine lines and colored dots. It has a spiny dorsal fin and a rounded caudal fin. It is an active hunter that sifts through sand and crevices for small crustaceans and worms. It is known for its fast swimming and leaps out of the water to catch prey. Like many wrasses, it buries itself in the sand to sleep.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 200 liters with a sandy substrate is essential for this wrasse. Ideal temperature is 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Good oxygenation and moderate flow are beneficial. It feeds mainly on frozen or live meaty foods such as mysis, brine shrimp and small fish pieces. It can coexist with peaceful fish but is territorial towards other wrasses. Do not keep with dwarf shrimp or crabs that it might eat. Standard reef lighting is suitable. Weekly water changes of 10% are recommended.

##### [Yellow-head wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-leucoxanthus)
**Halichoeres leucoxanthus** — Labridae · fish
The Yellow-head wrasse is distinguished by its bright yellow head contrasting with a blue-green body. It is a peaceful and colorful fish for reef aquariums.
This modest-sized wrasse has an elongated body and a bright yellow head extending to the pectoral fin. The rest of the body is blue-green with silvery reflections. Adult males develop blue stripes on the head and a black spot on the dorsal fin. The caudal fin is slightly forked. It feeds by sifting through sand and debris, capturing small invertebrates. It is a diurnal fish that sleeps buried in the substrate. It is generally peaceful but may defend its territory against conspecifics.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 150 liters with a fine sandy substrate is recommended. Temperature should be 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. This wrasse is carnivorous and accepts frozen foods such as mysis, brine shrimp and small worms. It can be kept in a group if the tank is large enough, but only one male is advised. It cohabits well with other peaceful reef fish. Avoid very small invertebrates. Moderate lighting and moderate flow are suitable. Regular water changes (10% weekly) are necessary.

##### [Marginated wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-marginatus)
**Halichoeres marginatus** — Labridae · fish
The Marginated wrasse is a large wrasse with bright colors and a distinctive border on its fins. It is hardy and suitable for large marine aquariums.
This wrasse can reach 15 cm and has an elongated, robust body. Its coloration is variable: adult males are bright green with horizontal blue bands and a red or orange border on the dorsal and anal fins. Females are duller, often brown or greenish. The head is marked with pink or blue lines. It has a protractile mouth and powerful pharyngeal teeth to crush shells. It is an active hunter that feeds on mollusks, crustaceans and sea urchins. It is known to turn over stones in search of prey. It buries itself in the sand to sleep and hide.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is recommended due to its adult size and activity. The substrate should be sandy and deep to allow burrowing. Temperature: 24-28°C, pH: 8.1-8.4. It is carnivorous and requires a varied diet: mussels, shrimp, fish pieces, and frozen foods. It can be kept with other robust fish, but it is territorial and may attack small fish or invertebrates. Avoid decorative shellfish that it might break. Moderate to strong flow and standard lighting are suitable. Regular water changes (15% weekly) are important.

##### [Tail-spot wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-melanurus)
**Halichoeres melanurus** — Labridae · fish
The Tail-spot wrasse is a colorful reef fish easily recognized by the black spot on its tail. It is active and popular in marine aquariums.
This wrasse has an elongated, laterally compressed body with variable coloration depending on sex and age. Adult males display bright shades of green, blue and orange, while females and juveniles are more subdued. The most striking feature is the large black spot on the caudal peduncle, surrounded by blue dots. It has a continuous dorsal fin and a protractile mouth adapted for catching small invertebrates. It is a diurnal fish that spends its time foraging for food in sand and rocks. It is known for its ability to burrow into the substrate to hide or sleep.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
This wrasse requires an aquarium of at least 200 liters with a fine sandy substrate to allow burrowing. Temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Efficient filtration and good water flow are recommended. It is carnivorous and accepts frozen foods such as mysis, brine shrimp and small crustaceans. It can be kept with other peaceful fish but may be territorial towards conspecifics. Avoid housing with very small invertebrates that it might eat. Moderate lighting is suitable, but it appreciates shaded areas. Regular water changes (10% weekly) are necessary to maintain good water quality.

##### [Three-spot wrasse](/encyclopedia/halichoeres-trimaculatus)
**Halichoeres trimaculatus** — Labridae · fish
The three-spot wrasse is a robust and active fish, recognizable by its three dark spots on the back. It is valued for its cleaning role and ability to remove parasites.
This wrasse reaches up to 12 cm and has an elongated body of variable color (green, brown, reddish) with three distinctive black spots on the upper side. Males are more colorful than females. It is diurnal and constantly sifts through sand in search of prey. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics. It is known to 'clean' other fish by removing parasites. In aquariums, it needs a sandy substrate to bury itself at night.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume 300 liters. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, mysis, small crustaceans, worms. It is semi-aggressive: may harass smaller fish or other wrasses. A lid is necessary. A fine sand substrate is essential for its well-being. It cohabits best with medium to large fish. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L, phosphates 0.05 mg/L. Strong filtration is recommended.

##### [Pennant Coralfish](/encyclopedia/heniochus-acuminatus)
**Heniochus acuminatus** — Chaetodontidae · fish
The Pennant Coralfish is an elegant fish with a long pennant-like dorsal fin. It is popular in reef aquariums as it does not eat corals.
Heniochus acuminatus has a laterally compressed body, white with two broad vertical black bands. The dorsal fin is very elongated, forming a long filament. The caudal fin is yellow. It swims in groups in the wild and is very active. In an aquarium, it is peaceful and can be kept with other fish. It feeds mainly on plankton and small invertebrates. It is considered reef-safe as it does not attack corals. Its lifespan can reach 10 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is recommended, with open swimming space. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is omnivorous with a planktivorous tendency, accepting frozen and dry foods. It is important to provide a varied diet including mysis and brine shrimp. It can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough. It is compatible with corals and invertebrates. Avoid aggressive fish. Good filtration and moderate water flow are appreciated. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Common seahorse](/encyclopedia/hippocampus-kuda)
**Hippocampus kuda** — Syngnathidae · fish
The common seahorse is an iconic marine fish, recognizable by its horse-like shape and vertical swimming. It is popular in aquariums but requires specific care.
This fish has an elongated body, a horse-like head, a tubular snout, and a prehensile tail. It reaches up to 17 cm. It swims vertically using its dorsal fin. It is monogamous and forms faithful pairs. The male incubates eggs in a ventral pouch. It feeds on small planktonic crustaceans. In the aquarium, it is sensitive to stress and strong currents. It can change color for camouflage. Its behavior is calm and graceful.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 17cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
Temperature 22–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum 100-liter tank is recommended, preferably tall (60 cm) for vertical swimming. Water flow should be low to moderate. Diet should consist of enriched mysis and brine shrimp, fed several times a day. Avoid fast or aggressive fish. Seahorses are sensitive to diseases and water quality. A protein skimmer is useful. Keep nitrates below 10 mg/L and phosphates below 0.05 mg/L. Decor with gorgonians or algae allows for anchoring.

##### [King Angelfish](/encyclopedia/holacanthus-passer)
**Holacanthus passer** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The King Angelfish is a large marine angelfish with vibrant colors, highly prized in reef aquariums. It requires a large water volume and a varied diet.
Holacanthus passer has an oval, laterally compressed body, with a bright blue coloration marked by vertical yellow bars and a dark spot on the gill cover. The dorsal and anal fins are elongated, the caudal fin is truncate. Juveniles are very different, with blue and yellow patterns. It is a territorial species that can become aggressive towards conspecifics. It feeds mainly on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it can reach 30 cm and live over 10 years. Its coloration intensifies with age.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 400 liters is recommended for an adult specimen. Provide plenty of hiding places and moderate lighting. The diet should be omnivorous, including sponge-based foods, algae, and meaty preparations. Avoid cohabitation with other large angelfish. Water quality must be excellent, with nitrates <20 mg/L and phosphates <0.05 mg/L. An efficient protein skimmer is essential. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Cleaner wrasse](/encyclopedia/labroides-dimidiatus)
**Labroides dimidiatus** — Labridae · fish
The cleaner wrasse is a small marine reef fish famous for its cleaning behavior, removing parasites and dead tissue from other fish.
Labroides dimidiatus reaches a maximum size of about 12 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a characteristic coloration: a horizontal black stripe on a light blue to white background, and a bright yellow tail. The fins are translucent with bluish reflections. It is a very active diurnal fish, known for its mutualistic cleaning behavior. Sexual dimorphism is slight: males are slightly larger and more colorful than females, and individuals can change sex (protogyny).
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 200 liters is recommended, with stable water parameters (temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025). A rocky setup with hiding places is essential. This fish is a strict carnivore: it must be fed several times a day with small meaty foods (brine shrimp, mysis, chopped krill). It is compatible with most reef fish, but can be aggressive towards other cleaner wrasses. Caution: it may starve if the aquarium does not have enough client fish or if the diet is inadequate. It is sensitive to water quality fluctuations.

##### [Hawaiian cleaner wrasse](/encyclopedia/labroides-phthirophagus)
**Labroides phthirophagus** — Labridae · fish
Cleaner fish endemic to Hawaii, essential for fish health.
Labroides phthirophagus is a cleaner fish from the Labridae family, endemic to Hawaii. It reaches up to 10 cm. It has an elongated body with a black longitudinal stripe on a light blue background. It feeds on parasites and dead tissue from other fish. In aquariums, it can be difficult to keep as it requires specific feeding. It is peaceful and can be kept in groups.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Marine tank of at least 200 liters, with plenty of live rock and a population of client fish. Specialized diet: enriched brine shrimp, mysis, and parasite supplements. Salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Requires gradual acclimation. May starve if not enough natural food.

##### [Orange-spine Unicornfish](/encyclopedia/naso-lituratus)
**Naso lituratus** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Orange-spine Unicornfish is a large semi-aggressive herbivorous fish, recognizable by its frontal horn and orange caudal spines. It requires a very large aquarium.
The body is elongated and compressed, gray-blue with yellow highlights. A frontal horn is present in adults. The caudal spines are bright orange. The caudal fin is crescent-shaped. Juveniles lack the horn. It is a powerful and active swimmer. In the aquarium, it can become territorial and requires a lot of space. It feeds on algae and plankton.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 600L, Size 45cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 600-liter aquarium is essential. Herbivorous diet with algae, nori, spirulina, and plankton supplements. Be careful with other surgeonfish: it can be aggressive. Provide a large swimming area and rocks for hiding. Strong filtration and high flow are necessary. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L.

##### [Orangespine unicornfish](/encyclopedia/naso-liturgatus)
**Naso liturgatus** — Acanthuridae · fish
Surgeonfish with a frontal horn and bright orange spines. Requires a very large aquarium.
Naso liturgatus is a large surgeonfish recognizable by its frontal protuberance (horn) and two bright orange spines on the caudal peduncle. Juveniles are duller in color. It is a herbivore feeding mainly on algae. In the aquarium, it is active and needs ample swimming space. It can be kept with other robust fish but may become aggressive towards conspecifics.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 800L, Size 45cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 800 liters, with strong current and powerful filtration. Diet based on algae (nori, spirulina) and fresh vegetables. Provide hiding spots and large swimming space. Handle with care due to spines.

##### [Bluespine Unicornfish](/encyclopedia/naso-unicornis)
**Naso unicornis** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Bluespine Unicornfish is a large semi-aggressive herbivorous fish, easily recognized by its long frontal horn and blue caudal spines. It requires a very spacious aquarium.
The body is elongated, gray-blue to olive, with a long frontal horn in adults. The caudal spines are bright blue. The caudal fin is truncated. Juveniles have a short horn. It is an active fish that swims in open water. It can be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. It feeds mainly on algae but also on plankton. In the aquarium, it needs large open spaces.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 800L, Size 50cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum 800-liter aquarium is recommended. Herbivorous diet: algae, nori, spirulina, vegetable and plankton supplements. Avoid keeping it with other Naso or aggressive surgeonfish. A large volume with strong flow and efficient filtration is essential. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Good oxygenation is crucial.

##### [Vlaming's Tang](/encyclopedia/naso-vlamingii)
**Naso vlamingii** — Acanthuridae · fish
The Vlaming's Tang is a large reef surgeonfish, recognizable by its bluish coloration and lyre-shaped tail. It is popular in marine aquariums for its beauty but requires a large tank.
Naso vlamingii has an oval laterally compressed body, with a gray-blue to blue-violet coloration. Its caudal fin is deeply forked, forming a lyre. It has a sharp spine on each side of the caudal peduncle. It is an active fish constantly swimming in search of algae. In aquariums, it can become territorial towards other surgeonfish. It is sensitive to skin diseases like ich. It can reach 50 cm in the wild, but rarely over 30 cm in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 800L, Size 50cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 800 liters. Diet herbivorous: algae, nori, spirulina, vegetable supplements. Compatibility: avoid other surgeonfish, can coexist with peaceful fish. Needs large swimming space and hiding spots. Sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Good filtration and protein skimmer essential. Can be kept in reef but may nip at soft corals.

##### [Redtooth Triggerfish](/encyclopedia/odonus-niger)
**Odonus niger** — Balistidae · fish
Dark-bodied triggerfish with distinctive red teeth, relatively peaceful for a triggerfish.
The redtooth triggerfish has an elongated body dark blue to black, with purple highlights. Its teeth are red, visible when it opens its mouth. It is less aggressive than other triggerfish, but can become territorial. It swims actively and needs space. It feeds on plankton and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it accepts a variety of foods. It can reach 50 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 50cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 500 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: omnivorous with planktivorous tendency, frozen food, brine shrimp, mysis, and small pieces. Generally compatible with other fish of similar size. Avoid very small fish. Can be kept in reef tanks with caution as it may eat shrimp. Needs hiding places and moderate current.

##### [Longnose filefish](/encyclopedia/oxymonacanthus-longirostris)
**Oxymonacanthus longirostris** — Monacanthidae · fish
The longnose filefish is a specialized marine fish, dependent on Acropora polyps for food. Its maintenance in aquariums is very demanding.
This fish is distinguished by its elongated snout and yellow-and-blue spotted pattern. It reaches up to 12 cm. It lives in pairs or small groups in Acropora areas. Its behavior is shy and discreet. It feeds exclusively on the polyps of hard corals of the genus Acropora, making it very difficult to feed in captivity. It is sensitive to water quality and stress. In an aquarium, it requires a mature tank with live Acropora corals. It can be kept with peaceful fish but not with soft corals or other hard corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum 200-liter tank is required, with intense lighting to maintain Acropora. Diet must consist of fresh or frozen Acropora polyps, or specialized foods. It is not recommended for beginners. Cohabitation must be carefully chosen: only peaceful fish. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are imperative. Nitrates should be below 10 mg/L, phosphates below 0.05 mg/L. Calcium and magnesium supplementation is necessary for the corals.

##### [Blue tang](/encyclopedia/paracanthurus-hepatus)
**Paracanthurus hepatus** — Acanthuridae · fish
A surgeonfish with a royal blue body and yellow tail, made famous by the film Finding Nemo. Popular but requires a large aquarium.
The blue tang has a compressed oval body, bright blue with a black band from the eye extending along the back. Its caudal fin is bright yellow. It reaches up to 30 cm. It is active and swims in schools in the wild. In the aquarium, it is generally peaceful but can become territorial. It is sensitive to ich and skin diseases. Its caudal spine is sharp. It needs a large volume to swim.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 300 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Quarantine is recommended. Regular water changes and a protein skimmer are important. Keep nitrates below 5 mg/L.

##### [Orange filefish](/encyclopedia/pervagor-melanocephalus)
**Pervagor melanocephalus** — Monacanthidae · fish
The orange filefish is a small, colorful marine fish, highly prized for its bright hue and active behavior. It helps control algae in the aquarium.
This fish has an oval, compressed body, with a bright orange background color and a darker head, hence its name. The first dorsal fin is an erectile spine. It reaches up to 12 cm. It is generally peaceful but can be territorial towards other filefish. It often swims in pairs or small groups. Its diet is mainly herbivorous, grazing on filamentous algae. It may also accept meaty foods. In the aquarium, it is active and curious, constantly exploring its surroundings.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum 100-liter tank is sufficient for one specimen. Provide live rock with algae for grazing. Diet should be rich in vegetable matter (nori, spirulina) supplemented with small prey. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid aggressive or overly active fish. Moderate lighting and good water flow are recommended. Keep nitrates below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.1 mg/L.

##### [Blue-ring angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-annularis)
**Pomacanthus annularis** — Pomacanthidae · fish
A large reef angelfish with characteristic blue rings on a brown-green body. Requires a very large aquarium.
Pomacanthus annularis is an impressive angelfish reaching 30 cm. Adults have a brown-green body with curved blue lines forming rings, and a yellow caudal fin. Juveniles are dark blue with white lines. It inhabits Indo-Pacific reefs, often in pairs. In aquariums, it needs a large volume and varied diet. It can be aggressive towards other angelfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 500 L with large rocks and hiding spots. Strong filtration, high water quality. Diet: algae, spirulina, mysis, brine shrimp, and sponge-based foods. Caution with soft corals.

##### [Emperor angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-imperator)
**Pomacanthus imperator** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Large royal angelfish with bright colors: blue and yellow with stripes. Highly prized but requires a large aquarium.
The emperor angelfish grows up to 40 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white and blue stripes. Adults have a bright blue body with yellow stripes and a blue head. The dorsal fin is yellow. It is a territorial and aggressive fish towards other angelfish. It is sensitive to diseases. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 600L, Size 40cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 600 liters. Omnivorous: sponges, algae, mysis, brine shrimp. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid other angelfish and shy fish. Requires a varied diet. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Yellowbar angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-maculosus)
**Pomacanthus maculosus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
A large reef angelfish with a distinctive yellow bar on a blue-purple body. Very decorative but demanding.
Pomacanthus maculosus is a spectacular angelfish reaching 50 cm. Adults have a blue-purple body with a broad vertical yellow bar in the middle, and yellow fins. Juveniles are dark blue with white lines. It lives in reefs of the Indian Ocean and Red Sea. In aquariums, it requires a very large tank and a diet rich in algae and sponges. It can be aggressive towards conspecifics.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 600L, Size 50cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 600 L with large rocks and strong filtration. Very stable water, low nitrates. Diet: algae, spirulina, mysis, brine shrimp, and sponge-based foods. Avoid small fish and invertebrates.

##### [Blue-girdled angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-navarchus)
**Pomacanthus navarchus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The blue-girdled angelfish is distinguished by a broad vertical blue band on its yellow body. It is found on reefs of the Indo-Pacific.
This angelfish has a bright yellow body with a broad vertical blue band across the mid-body and blue markings on the head. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in blue. It reaches 30 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white bands. It is territorial and can become aggressive towards other angelfish. It feeds on sponges, algae, and tunicates. In an aquarium, it needs space and live rock.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 0-0, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, dKH 8-12. A minimum 500-liter tank is required. Provide live rock for grazing and hiding. Diet should be varied: sponges, algae, shrimp, mussels. Avoid cohabitation with other large angelfish. It can be kept in a reef tank with caution. Moderate water flow and efficient filtration are needed. Weekly 20% water changes.

##### [Semicircle angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-semicirculatus)
**Pomacanthus semicirculatus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Large angelfish with blue and yellow colors and a semicircular pattern. Less known than the emperor but equally beautiful.
The semicircle angelfish grows up to 35 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white and blue stripes. Adults have a bright blue body with yellow stripes and a characteristic semicircular spot on the flank. The dorsal fin is yellow. It is a territorial and aggressive fish towards other angelfish. It is sensitive to diseases. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 35cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 500 liters. Omnivorous: sponges, algae, mysis, brine shrimp. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid other angelfish and shy fish. Requires a varied diet. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Six-banded angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-sexstriatus)
**Pomacanthus sexstriatus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The six-banded angelfish is a large angelfish with a yellow body and six vertical blue bands. It lives on Indo-Pacific reefs.
This angelfish has a bright yellow body crossed by six dark blue vertical bands. The head is blue with yellow markings. The dorsal and anal fins are yellow with blue edges. It can reach 45 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white bands. It is territorial and semi-aggressive. It feeds on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In an aquarium, it requires a very large volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 0-0, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 700L, Size 45cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, dKH 8-12. A minimum 700-liter tank is essential. Provide plenty of live rock and hiding places. Diet should be rich in sponges and algae, supplemented with meaty foods. Avoid cohabitation with other large angelfish. It can be kept in a reef tank but may attack soft corals. Moderate water flow and efficient filtration are needed. Weekly 20% water changes.

##### [Picasso Triggerfish](/encyclopedia/rhinecanthus-aculeatus)
**Rhinecanthus aculeatus** — Balistidae · fish
Colorful and intricately patterned triggerfish, very active and intelligent.
The Picasso triggerfish has an oval laterally compressed body, with patterns of blue, yellow, and black lines. It has an erectile dorsal spine. It is known for its curious and sometimes aggressive behavior. It can recognize its owner and beg for food. In aquariums, it needs plenty of space and rocks to hide. It can reach 30 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 400 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: omnivorous, will accept frozen foods, shrimp, fish pieces, and algae. Moderately aggressive, can coexist with other robust fish. Avoid invertebrates. Needs hiding places and sandy substrate. May jump, so a lid is necessary.

##### [Halfmoon Triggerfish](/encyclopedia/sufflamen-chrysopterum)
**Sufflamen chrysopterum** — Balistidae · fish
Brown triggerfish with a white crescent-shaped mark on the flank.
The halfmoon triggerfish has an oval body, dark brown to black, with a curved white band on the flank. It has a dorsal spine. It is moderately aggressive, often territorial. It feeds on invertebrates and algae. In aquariums, it is hardy but requires a large volume. It can reach 30 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank volume 400 liters. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Diet: omnivorous, will accept frozen foods, shrimp, fish pieces, and algae. Less aggressive than some triggerfish but can be territorial. Compatible with other robust fish. Avoid invertebrates. Needs rocks to hide. A lid is recommended.

##### [Ocellated dragonet](/encyclopedia/synchiropus-ocellatus)
**Synchiropus ocellatus** — Callionymidae · fish
Small, brightly colored dragonet with orange body and blue spots. Ideal for reef tanks.
The ocellated dragonet is a peaceful bottom-dwelling fish. It feeds on small crustaceans and copepods. Requires a mature tank with a stable microfauna population. Its vibrant coloration makes it a favorite among experienced aquarists.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a tank of at least 100L with plenty of live rock. Live food (brine shrimp, copepods). Avoid aggressive tankmates.

##### [Mandarinfish](/encyclopedia/synchiropus-splendidus)
**Synchiropus splendidus** — Callionymidae · fish
The mandarinfish is a small, brightly colored reef fish highly prized in aquariums but difficult to keep.
The mandarinfish grows up to 6 cm. Its body is elongated and covered with wavy blue, orange, and green patterns. Males have a greatly elongated first dorsal fin. It moves by crawling on the substrate in search of small crustaceans. It is shy and spends most of its time hidden. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced: males have a longer dorsal spine and brighter colors.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is required, with mature water and an abundant copepod population. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. The decor should include plenty of live rock and hiding places. Diet consists exclusively of live prey such as copepods and amphipods. It is compatible with peaceful fish but may be aggressive towards conspecifics. Warning: do not introduce into a new tank or with fish that compete for food.

##### [Starry dragonet](/encyclopedia/synchiropus-stellatus)
**Synchiropus stellatus** — Callionymidae · fish
Small bottom-dwelling fish with star-like patterns on the body.
The starry dragonet has an elongated body and broad pectoral fins. Its coloration is variable, often with white or blue spots. Males have a tall dorsal fin. It moves by hopping on the sand. It feeds on small invertebrates. Peaceful and discreet species. Can be kept in groups if space is sufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium at least 60 liters, reef with fine sand. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Diet: small live or frozen crustaceans. Needs varied diet. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate care. Good water quality required.

##### [Goldbar wrasse](/encyclopedia/thalassoma-hebraicum)
**Thalassoma hebraicum** — Labridae · fish
Active and colorful fish, recognizable by its gold bar.
The goldbar wrasse is a lively fish requiring a large tank with plenty of swimming space. It can be aggressive towards smaller fish. Its green color and gold bar are very attractive.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 300L. Provide a lid as it jumps. Varied diet (brine shrimp, mysis, small fish).

##### [Moon wrasse](/encyclopedia/thalassoma-lunare)
**Thalassoma lunare** — Labridae · fish
The moon wrasse is a colorful reef fish from the Indo-Pacific, recognizable by its crescent-shaped tail. It is active and popular in marine aquariums.
The moon wrasse reaches a maximum size of about 25 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed. Adult males display a bright blue-green coloration with a yellow tail marked by a black crescent-shaped spot. Females and juveniles are duller, often olive green or brownish. It is a very active diurnal fish that swims constantly in search of food. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced: males are larger and more colorful than females.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 300 liters is recommended for an adult specimen, with plenty of open swimming space and live rock for hiding. Temperature should be maintained between 24 and 28 °C, pH between 8.1 and 8.4, and salinity between 1.020 and 1.025. This fish is carnivorous and accepts a variety of meaty foods (shrimp, mussels, fish). It can be aggressive towards small fish and invertebrates, so it is not suitable for reef tanks. Strong filtration and regular water changes are necessary.

##### [Desjardin's sailfin tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-desjardinii)
**Zebrasoma desjardinii** — Acanthuridae · fish
Desjardin's sailfin tang is a marine reef fish with a tall, laterally compressed body, recognizable by its yellow and black stripes and large sail-like dorsal fin.
This surgeonfish reaches up to 40 cm in length. Its body is oval and highly compressed, with an extremely developed dorsal fin that unfurls like a sail. Juvenile coloration is bright yellow with vertical black bands, while adults become darker with complex patterns. It has a sharp caudal spine used for defense. It is a herbivorous grazer feeding mainly on filamentous algae. It is active during the day and can be territorial towards other surgeonfish. In an aquarium, it requires a large water volume and a diet rich in vegetables.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 40cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, and salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum tank size of 500 liters is recommended for an adult. The diet should consist of algae (nori, spirulina) and fresh vegetables, supplemented with vitamin-enriched foods. Avoid keeping it with other surgeonfish in insufficient volume, as it can become aggressive. It is sensitive to skin diseases like ich and requires good filtration. Abundant live rock promotes natural grazing. Cohabitation with peaceful fish is possible if space is adequate.

##### [Yellow tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-flavescens)
**Zebrasoma flavescens** — Acanthuridae · fish
An iconic reef fish with a bright yellow body and high dorsal fin. Very popular in reef aquariums.
The yellow tang has a laterally compressed oval body, entirely bright yellow. Its dorsal fin is tall and continuous, and its tail is white. It has a sharp spine on each side of the caudal peduncle, used for defense. Juveniles are often solitary, while adults form groups. It is an essential algae grazer for reef balance. In the aquarium, it swims actively and needs plenty of space. It can become territorial towards other surgeonfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 300 L with stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Moderate lighting and good water flow are necessary. It is herbivorous: feed with dried algae (nori), blanched vegetables, and spirulina-enriched foods. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes and a protein skimmer are recommended. Keep nitrates below 5 mg/L and phosphates below 0.05 mg/L.

##### [Brown tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-scopas)
**Zebrasoma scopas** — Acanthuridae · fish
The brown tang is a modest-sized surgeonfish with an olive-brown body, lighter horizontal lines, and a yellow caudal fin.
This fish reaches about 20 cm in length. Its body is oval and compressed, with a tall dorsal fin but less spectacular than that of Z. desjardinii. Coloration is olive-brown with light horizontal lines on the flanks. The caudal fin is bright yellow. Juveniles are more yellow with dark spots. It has a caudal spine. It is a herbivorous algae grazer. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial towards conspecifics. It is one of the easiest surgeonfish to keep.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 300 liters is sufficient. Temperature 24-28 °C, pH 8.1-8.4. Diet based on algae (nori, spirulina) and vegetables. It readily accepts prepared foods. It is hardy and less prone to diseases than other surgeonfish. Good filtration and moderate lighting are recommended. It can coexist with other peaceful fish, but avoid multiple males in a small volume. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Sailfin tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-veliferum)
**Zebrasoma veliferum** — Acanthuridae · fish
Majestic surgeonfish with a large sail-like dorsal fin, highly prized in marine aquariums.
The sailfin tang is a large marine fish (up to 40 cm) recognizable by its very tall dorsal fin that spreads like a sail. Its coloration is brown-yellow with dark vertical bands. It is herbivorous and grazes on algae on rocks. It is an active fish that requires a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 40cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 300 liters with rockwork and algae to graze. Stable water with salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Can be territorial towards other surgeonfish. Feed with dried algae (nori), spirulina-based pellets, and fresh vegetables.

##### [Barrier reef clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-akindynos)
**Amphiprion akindynos** — Pomacentridae · fish
The barrier reef clownfish is an endemic species of the Great Barrier Reef region, with an orange-brown body and two white bars. It is moderately territorial and associates with Heteractis anemones.
This clownfish has an orange-brown body with two vertical white bars: one behind the eye and one on the caudal peduncle. The fins are light orange. It reaches up to 13 cm. It is a semi-aggressive species that defends its anemone but tolerates other fish if space is sufficient. It lives in pairs or small groups. In an aquarium, it requires an appropriate volume to avoid conflicts. Its coloration resembles that of Amphiprion chrysopterus but lighter. It is appreciated for its hardiness and ease of adaptation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 13cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, GH 8–12 dGH, KH 8–12 dKH, nitrates < 20 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. A minimum 120-liter tank is recommended for a pair. Omnivorous diet includes brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and pellets. This species is compatible with similarly sized reef fish, but avoid very shy fish. It accepts anemones but can do without. Moderate lighting and efficient filtration are required. Weekly 10% water changes are important. Monitor parameters to avoid nitrate spikes.

##### [Orange-fin clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-chrysopterus)
**Amphiprion chrysopterus** — Pomacentridae · fish
The orange-fin clownfish is a robust and territorial species, recognizable by its bright orange fins and dark brown body. It lives in symbiosis with sea anemones of the genus Heteractis.
This clownfish has a dark brown to blackish body with two vertical white bars, one behind the eye and one on the caudal peduncle. The dorsal, anal and caudal fins are bright orange. Adults reach up to 15 cm. It is an aggressive species that fiercely defends its anemone and territory. It forms monogamous pairs and can live in a hierarchical group. In an aquarium, it requires enough space to avoid conflicts.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, general hardness (GH) 8–12 dGH and carbonate hardness (KH) 8–12 dKH. Nitrates should not exceed 20 ppm and phosphates 0.1 ppm. A minimum tank size of 150 liters is recommended for a pair. Feed a varied diet: brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and pellets for marine fish. This species is aggressive towards other clownfish and shy fish; choose robust tankmates. It readily accepts anemones but can do without. Efficient filtration and moderate lighting are required. Regular water changes (10% weekly) are essential.

##### [Clark's anemonefish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-clarkii)
**Amphiprion clarkii** — Pomacentridae · fish
Robust and adaptable clownfish, recognizable by its white bands and yellow tail. Can live without an anemone.
Amphiprion clarkii is one of the most widespread clownfish. It has a dark brown to black body with two vertical white bands (one behind the eye, one mid-body) and a bright yellow tail. It is very hardy and adapts to different environments. In the aquarium, it readily accepts prepared foods. It can be kept as a pair or in a group in a sufficiently large tank. It is territorial but generally peaceful with other species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 100 liters. Accepts a wide variety of foods (flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis). Can be kept without an anemone. Provide hiding places (rocks, corals). Stable water with good filtration.

##### [Tomato clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-frenatus)
**Amphiprion frenatus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Bright red clownfish with a single white vertical band behind the eye. Popular in marine aquariums.
The tomato clownfish reaches 14 cm. Its body is bright orange-red, with a single white vertical band just behind the eye. The fins are orange. The female is larger than the male. It is territorial but less aggressive than other clownfish. It can be kept in pairs or groups with a hierarchy. It is hardy and adapts well to captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 120 liters. Omnivorous: brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid very aggressive fish. An anemone is not essential but appreciated. Captive breeding possible.

##### [White-headed clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-leucokranos)
**Amphiprion leucokranos** — Pomacentridae · fish
The white-headed clownfish is distinguished by its white head contrasting with an orange-brown body. It is a relatively peaceful species that lives in association with Stichodactyla and Heteractis anemones.
This clownfish has a characteristic white head, an orange-brown body and a single vertical white bar on the flank. The fins are light orange. It reaches about 12 cm. It is less aggressive than other clownfish, but will defend its anemone. It lives in pairs or small hierarchical groups. In an aquarium, it adapts well and can coexist with other peaceful fish. Its unique coloration makes it a favorite among aquarists.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, GH 8–12 dGH, KH 8–12 dKH, nitrates < 20 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. A minimum 100-liter tank is suitable for a pair. Diet is omnivorous: brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and pellets. This species is compatible with most peaceful reef fish. It readily accepts anemones but can live without. Moderate lighting and efficient filtration are recommended. Weekly 10% water changes maintain quality. Avoid overly aggressive tankmates.

##### [McCulloch's clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-mccullochi)
**Amphiprion mccullochi** — Pomacentridae · fish
McCulloch's clownfish is a rare endemic species with a dark brown body and a broad vertical white bar. It is classified as vulnerable due to its very restricted range.
This clownfish has a dark brown to blackish body with a single broad vertical white bar in the middle of the body. The fins are dark, sometimes with a slight orange tint. It reaches up to 12 cm. It is a semi-aggressive species that defends its territory. It lives in symbiosis with Heteractis crispa and Stichodactyla haddoni anemones. In an aquarium, it is rare and sought after. Its care is similar to other clownfish, but requires special attention to water quality. Captive breeding is possible but uncommon.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Stable parameters: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, GH 8–12 dGH, KH 8–12 dKH, nitrates < 20 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. A minimum 120-liter tank is recommended for a pair. Omnivorous diet should be varied: brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and quality pellets. This species is moderately aggressive; choose robust tankmates. It accepts anemones but can live without. Moderate lighting and strong filtration are recommended. Regular water changes (10% weekly) are crucial. Due to its vulnerable status, prefer captive-bred specimens.

##### [Blackfoot clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-melanopus)
**Amphiprion melanopus** — Pomacentridae · fish
The blackfoot clownfish is distinguished by its bright orange coloration with a black belly and a white band behind the eye. It is a hardy and territorial fish, ideal for reef aquariums.
Amphiprion melanopus has a bright orange body, with a large black area on the belly and lower part. A vertical white band crosses the eye. Fins are orange. It can reach 12 cm. It is a very territorial fish, especially towards other clownfish. It lives in symbiosis with anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor). It is omnivorous and readily accepts prepared foods. Captive breeding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 100 liters. Diet omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis. Compatibility: avoid multiple clownfish, ideal in pair. Territorial, may attack other fish. Needs hiding spots. Can be kept in reef. Good filtration required. Susceptible to diseases if stressed.

##### [Ocellaris clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-ocellaris)
**Amphiprion ocellaris** — Pomacentridae · fish
A small orange and white marine fish, famous for its association with anemones. Very popular and easy to keep.
The ocellaris clownfish has a bright orange body with three vertical white bands edged in black. The dorsal fin is tall and rounded. It reaches up to 8 cm. It is a protandrous hermaphrodite: all juveniles are male, the dominant one becomes female. It lives in a hierarchical group with a dominant female. In the aquarium, it often accepts artificial anemones. It is very hardy and adapts well to captivity. It can be aggressive towards intruders in its territory.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 80 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Omnivorous, feed with pellets, brine shrimp, and algae. It is recommended to keep it as a pair or in a small group. An anemone is not mandatory but appreciated. Avoid aggressive fish. Regular water changes are important. It is sensitive to high nitrate levels.

##### [Percula clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-percula)
**Amphiprion percula** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small bright orange fish with white bands, famous for its association with sea anemones. Very popular in marine aquariums.
The percula clownfish grows up to 11 cm. Its body is bright orange with three white bands edged in black. The caudal fin is rounded. It exhibits sexual dimorphism: the female is larger than the male. It is a territorial fish that defends its anemone. It communicates through clicking sounds and postures. In aquariums, it can live without an anemone but adapts to other substitutes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 11cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 100 liters. Omnivorous: feed with brine shrimp, mysis, and flake food. Compatible with other peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive fish. Introducing an anemone is recommended but not mandatory. Captive breeding is possible with a formed pair.

##### [Pink clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-perideraion)
**Amphiprion perideraion** — Pomacentridae · fish
The pink clownfish is an elegant species with a pinkish-orange body and a single vertical white bar. It is one of the most peaceful clownfish, ideal for community reef aquariums.
This clownfish has a uniform pinkish-orange body, a vertical white bar just behind the eye and another at the base of the caudal fin. The fins are translucent with a pink tint. It reaches up to 10 cm. It is a very peaceful species, even towards other clownfish, which is rare. It lives in symbiosis with Heteractis magnifica and Stichodactyla gigantea anemones. In an aquarium, it adapts easily and can be kept in groups. Its small size and calm temperament make it an excellent choice for reef beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Recommended parameters: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, GH 8–12 dGH, KH 8–12 dKH, nitrates < 20 ppm, phosphates < 0.1 ppm. A minimum 80-liter tank is sufficient for a pair. Omnivorous diet includes brine shrimp, mysis, flakes and pellets. This species is highly compatible with peaceful reef fish and invertebrates. It accepts anemones but can live without. Moderate lighting and gentle filtration are adequate. Regular 10% weekly water changes are important. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish.

##### [Saddleback clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-polymnus)
**Amphiprion polymnus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Clownfish characterized by a broad white saddle-shaped band on the back. Less common than other species.
Amphiprion polymnus has a dark brown to black body with a broad white band on the back resembling a saddle, and a white band behind the eye. The tail is white or pale yellow. It is usually associated with sea anemones (Heteractis magnifica, Stichodactyla haddoni). In the aquarium, it is less hardy than Clark's anemonefish but still easy to keep. It is territorial but peaceful with other fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 150 liters. Provide a host anemone if possible (Heteractis magnifica). Varied diet (flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis). Stable, well-filtered water. Avoid aggressive tankmates.

##### [Black-axil chromis](/encyclopedia/chromis-atripectoralis)
**Chromis atripectoralis** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small schooling fish with blue-green body and a black spot at the axil of pectoral fins. Ideal for reef aquarium.
Chromis atripectoralis is a small fish of the Pomacentridae family. It has an elongated body of iridescent blue-green color, with a characteristic black spot at the axil of each pectoral fin. The fins are translucent. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups in the wild. In the aquarium, it is peaceful and active, swimming in open water. It feeds on zooplankton and accepts fine foods. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 200 liters for a school of 6 or more. Very stable water, efficient filtration. Fine food (zooplankton, brine shrimp, crushed flakes). Provide open swimming space. Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Green chromis](/encyclopedia/chromis-viridis)
**Chromis viridis** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small bright green fish forming large schools. Ideal for community reef aquariums.
The green chromis grows up to 10 cm. Its body is bright green with bluish reflections. The fins are translucent. It is a peaceful fish that lives in schools. In aquariums, it is active and swims in open water. It is sensitive to stress if kept alone. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate prepared by the male.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 200 liters for a school of 6. Omnivorous: plankton, brine shrimp, mysis, flakes. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive fish. Keep in groups of at least 5-6 to reduce stress. Captive breeding possible.

##### [Blue damselfish](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-cyanea)
**Chrysiptera cyanea** — Pomacentridae · fish
The blue damselfish is a small, lively marine fish with electric blue coloration. It is very hardy and ideal for beginners.
The body is elongated and entirely bright blue, sometimes with a yellow tint on the tail. The fins are translucent. It is an active fish that swims throughout the water column. It is territorial but can live in groups in a large tank. It reproduces by laying eggs on a flat surface. Males become more aggressive during breeding. It is a very common species in the aquarium trade.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is sufficient. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Salinity 1.020-1.025. It is a hardy fish that tolerates variations. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. It can be kept in groups of 3-5 in a large tank. Beware of intraspecific aggression. It is compatible with most reef fish. Stable parameters are needed to avoid stress.

##### [Azure damselfish](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-hemicyanea)
**Chrysiptera hemicyanea** — Pomacentridae · fish
The azure damselfish is a bright blue marine fish with a yellow belly. It is popular for its contrasting coloration.
The body is electric blue on top and bright yellow on the belly and tail. The fins are blue with iridescence. It is an active and territorial fish. It can be kept in groups in a large tank. It reproduces by laying eggs on rocks. Males guard the eggs. It is a hardy and easy-to-keep species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Salinity 1.020-1.025. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Can be kept in groups of 3-5. Beware of aggression between males. Compatible with most reef fish. Efficient filtration is required. Parameters must be stable.

##### [Yellowtail damselfish](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-parasema)
**Chrysiptera parasema** — Pomacentridae · fish
The yellowtail damselfish is a blue marine fish with a bright yellow tail. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners.
The body is dark to light blue, with a fully yellow tail. The dorsal and anal fins are blue. It is an active fish that swims in open water. It is territorial but can coexist with other fish. It reproduces by laying eggs on hard substrates. Males become more colorful during breeding. It is a very common species in the hobby.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is sufficient. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Salinity 1.020-1.025. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Can be kept in groups of 3-5. Beware of intraspecific aggression. Compatible with most reef fish. Good filtration is recommended. Parameters must be stable.

##### [King damselfish](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-rex)
**Chrysiptera rex** — Pomacentridae · fish
The king damselfish is a bright blue marine fish with a yellow stripe on the back. It is appreciated for its beauty and hardiness.
The body is bright blue with a broad yellow longitudinal stripe on the back. The tail is yellow. The fins are blue. It is an active and territorial fish. It can be kept in groups in a large tank. It reproduces by laying eggs on flat surfaces. Males guard the eggs. It is a hardy and easy-to-keep species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Salinity 1.020-1.025. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Can be kept in groups of 3-5. Beware of aggression between males. Compatible with most reef fish. Efficient filtration is required. Parameters must be stable.

##### [Rolland's Demoiselle](/encyclopedia/chrysiptera-rollandi)
**Chrysiptera rollandi** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small bright yellow damselfish with a black-marked dorsal fin. Peaceful species suitable for reef aquariums.
Chrysiptera rollandi grows up to 6 cm. Its body is bright yellow with a black spot on the anterior part of the dorsal fin. The pelvic and anal fins are also yellow. It is a diurnal species that lives in small groups in the wild. It feeds on zooplankton and algae. In aquariums, it is generally peaceful but can become territorial if space is limited. Its vivid coloration makes it a highly appreciated fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12 and KH 8-12. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L and phosphates 0.1 mg/L. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Diet should be varied: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp and algae. This species is compatible with other peaceful fish and reef invertebrates. Avoid keeping it with overly aggressive fish. A setup with live rock and hiding places is ideal.

##### [Three-stripe damselfish](/encyclopedia/dascyllus-aruanus)
**Dascyllus aruanus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small white fish with three vertical black bands. Very active and territorial despite its size.
The three-stripe damselfish grows up to 10 cm. Its body is white with three vertical black bands. The fins are white. It is a very active and territorial fish, especially towards other damselfish. It can be aggressive in a small tank. It lives in small groups in the wild. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 150 liters. Omnivorous: brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid shy fish. Can be kept in groups if tank is large. Territorial, introduce last. Breeding possible.

##### [Black-tailed dascyllus](/encyclopedia/dascyllus-melanurus)
**Dascyllus melanurus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Black and white damselfish, active and hardy.
Dascyllus melanurus is a marine fish from the Pomacentridae family. It reaches up to 8 cm. Its body is white with vertical black bands and a black tail. It is territorial but relatively peaceful in a community tank. In the wild, it lives in groups. It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Marine tank of at least 100 liters, with live rock for hiding. Salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Omnivore: feed flakes, brine shrimp, mysis. Beware of intraspecific aggression if kept in small group. Introduce several juveniles together.

##### [Aron's blenny](/encyclopedia/ecsenius-aroni)
**Ecsenius aroni** — Blenniidae · fish
Small colorful blenny, very active and curious. Ideal for peaceful reef aquariums.
Ecsenius aroni grows up to 6 cm. Its elongated body is brown-red with light spots and a continuous dorsal fin. It has small tentacles above the eyes. It is a territorial but non-aggressive fish towards other species. It spends its time perching on rocks and grazing algae. It can slightly change color depending on its mood. Its active behavior and facial expressions make it very popular.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank size of 80 liters is recommended. Provide plenty of rockwork hiding places. It feeds on algae, spirulina, and small crustaceans. It is compatible with most peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish. Good filtration and moderate lighting are sufficient. It may jump, so a lid is advised.

##### [Bicolor blenny](/encyclopedia/ecsenius-bicolor)
**Ecsenius bicolor** — Blenniidae · fish
The bicolor blenny is a small, colorful marine fish, very popular in reef aquariums for its active behavior and ease of care.
Ecsenius bicolor reaches up to 11 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a rounded head and large eyes. The coloration is distinctive: the anterior half of the body is dark brown to black, while the posterior half is bright yellow to orange. The fins are small, with a continuous dorsal fin. It has small comb-like teeth for grazing algae. Sexual dimorphism is subtle; males are slightly larger and more colorful during breeding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 75L, Size 11cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 75 liters is recommended for one specimen, larger for multiple fish. Water parameters should be 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. The aquascape should include plenty of live rock with crevices for hiding. It is omnivorous, accepting algae-based foods (nori, spirulina) and small meaty prey (brine shrimp, mysis). Caution: it may jump, so a lid is necessary. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial towards other blennies. It is compatible with most reef fish and invertebrates.

##### [Midas blenny](/encyclopedia/ecsenius-midas)
**Ecsenius midas** — Blenniidae · fish
Colorful blenny with bright yellow body and bluish head. Very active and popular in aquariums.
Ecsenius midas grows up to 8 cm. Its body is elongated, bright yellow to orange, with a blue-violet head. It has small comb-like teeth and tentacles above the eyes. It is an active fish that spends time perching on rocks and swimming among corals. It feeds mainly on algae and small invertebrates. It is territorial but can coexist with other blennies if space is sufficient. Known for its curiosity and amusing behavior.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
This blenny requires an aquarium of at least 80 liters with plenty of hiding places and rocks. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is herbivorous and should be fed algae-rich foods (nori, spirulina) supplemented with mysis. A volume of 100 liters is preferable for one specimen. It may jump, so a lid is recommended. Compatible with most peaceful reef fish. Avoid very aggressive fish. Good filtration and moderate lighting are sufficient.

##### [Spotted cleaner goby](/encyclopedia/elacatinus-puncticulatus)
**Elacatinus puncticulatus** — Gobiidae · fish
Cleaner goby that removes parasites from larger fish.
This small goby is an active cleaner. It establishes cleaning stations on rocks. Very useful in reef aquariums to reduce parasites. Its blue and yellow coloration is characteristic.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 80L with live rock. Varied diet (brine shrimp, mysis, herbivore food).

##### [Citron goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-citrinus)
**Gobiodon citrinus** — Gobiidae · fish
A small bright yellow goby, symbiotic with Acropora corals, highly valued in reef aquariums for its color and peaceful behavior.
Gobiodon citrinus reaches up to 6 cm. Its body is elongated, laterally compressed, with a uniform bright yellow coloration sometimes marked by fine blue lines on the head. It has large pectoral fins and a rounded caudal fin. It secretes a toxic mucus that protects it from predators. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with males slightly larger during breeding season.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 40-liter tank is recommended, with moderate lighting and good water flow. Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.020-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. It is essential to provide Acropora corals or branch-like structures for resting and security. Diet: small frozen crustaceans (brine shrimp, mysis) and enriched flake food. Compatible with most peaceful fish and reef invertebrates. Caution: do not keep with aggressive fish or predatory crabs.

##### [Clown goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-histrio)
**Gobiodon histrio** — Gobiidae · fish
Small colorful goby living in symbiosis with Acropora corals.
The clown goby is a small peaceful fish that hides among coral branches. Ideal for nano-reefs. Its bright yellow or orange color makes it very visible.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 50L with Acropora corals. Fine food (brine shrimp, rotifers). Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Blue-spotted goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-micropus)
**Gobiodon micropus** — Gobiidae · fish
Small reef goby with characteristic blue spots. It lives in symbiosis with certain Acropora corals.
Gobiodon micropus is a small fish of the Gobiidae family, reaching up to 4 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, brown-yellow with bright blue spots on the head and body. It has a continuous dorsal fin and fused pelvic fins forming a sucker. This goby is often associated with branching corals of the genus Acropora, in which it takes refuge. It is territorial but peaceful towards other species. Its coloration allows it to camouflage among coral branches.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
This goby requires a mature reef aquarium with Acropora corals to feel secure. Temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. A minimum volume of 50 liters is recommended for a pair. It feeds on small planktonic crustaceans, mysis, and artemia. It is sensitive to water quality; nitrates should stay below 20 ppm and phosphates below 0.1 ppm. Good water flow is appreciated but not strong currents. It can be kept in pairs or small groups if the tank is large enough. Avoid aggressive fish that may stress it.

##### [Yellow clown goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-okinawae)
**Gobiodon okinawae** — Gobiidae · fish
Small bright yellow fish, symbiotic with Acropora corals, very popular in reef aquariums.
The yellow clown goby reaches up to 3.5 cm. Its body is entirely bright yellow, without distinctive markings. It has broad pectoral fins and a continuous dorsal fin. It is a peaceful fish that lives in close association with Acropora corals. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with males being slightly larger during breeding season.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 30 liters is sufficient, but a larger volume is recommended for stability. Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.020-1.025. Decorate with live Acropora corals or structures mimicking their branches. This goby is carnivorous: accepts small frozen crustaceans (brine shrimp, mysis) and fine pellets. It is peaceful with most fish but may become territorial towards other yellow gobies. Beware of jumping: cover the aquarium.

##### [Unicolor goby](/encyclopedia/gobiodon-unicolor)
**Gobiodon unicolor** — Gobiidae · fish
Medium-sized goby with uniform brown-red coloration, often associated with Acropora corals.
Gobiodon unicolor grows up to 5 cm. Its body is stocky, brown-red to brown-green, without distinct patterns. It has a small mouth and prominent eyes. Like other Gobiodon, it lives in symbiosis with branching corals, hiding among branches. It is territorial towards conspecifics but tolerates other fish. Its dorsal fin is single and continuous. It can slightly change color to adapt to its environment.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
This goby requires a reef aquarium with Acropora corals. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. Minimum volume 60 liters for a pair. Diet: small crustaceans, mysis, artemia. Sensitive to nitrates and phosphates. Efficient filtration is needed. Can be kept alone or in pairs. Avoid large or aggressive fish. Good oxygenation is important.

##### [Forktail blenny](/encyclopedia/meiacanthus-atrodorsalis)
**Meiacanthus atrodorsalis** — Blenniidae · fish
Slender forktail blenny, very active and colorful. Known for its mild venom harmless to humans.
Meiacanthus atrodorsalis reaches 10 cm. Its body is elongated, bright yellow with a black stripe on the dorsal fin. The tail is deeply forked. It has venom glands in the jaws, but the sting is harmless to the aquarist. It is a pelagic fish that often swims in open water. It is curious and can recognize its owner. It feeds on zooplankton and small invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank of 120 liters is recommended. It needs open swimming space and some rockwork. It accepts frozen foods and flakes. Compatible with peaceful fish, avoid predators. It can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough. Efficient filtration is necessary. It is sensitive to water quality.

##### [Striped blenny](/encyclopedia/meiacanthus-grammistes)
**Meiacanthus grammistes** — Blenniidae · fish
Striped blenny with interesting behavior, venomous but harmless to humans.
Meiacanthus grammistes is a fish from the Blenniidae family. It reaches up to 10 cm. It has an elongated body with horizontal black and white stripes. It has venom glands at the base of its teeth, but its venom is mild and harmless to humans. It is an active and curious fish, often seen perching on rocks. It is omnivorous and accepts a variety of foods. It can be territorial towards conspecifics.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Marine tank of at least 100 liters, with rocks and hiding places. Salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Omnivore: flakes, brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Caution: may nip other fish, but rarely dangerous. Avoid keeping with very small fish.

##### [Kamohara's blenny](/encyclopedia/meiacanthus-kamoharai)
**Meiacanthus kamoharai** — Blenniidae · fish
Small striped blenny, ideal for nano-reefs. Peaceful and easy to keep.
Meiacanthus kamoharai grows up to 5 cm. Its body is elongated with horizontal brown and white stripes. The dorsal fin is low and continuous. It has a small downward-facing mouth. It is a bottom-dwelling fish that often hides in crevices. It is very shy but becomes more visible once acclimated. It feeds on algae and microorganisms. It can be kept in pairs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank of 60 liters is sufficient. Provide plenty of rockwork hiding places. It accepts frozen foods and algae-based flakes. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp. Avoid aggressive territorial fish. Stable water and gentle filtration are recommended. It may jump, so a lid is necessary.

##### [Yellow blenny](/encyclopedia/meiacanthus-luteus)
**Meiacanthus luteus** — Blenniidae · fish
Completely yellow blenny, very lively and easy to observe. Perfect for community aquariums.
Meiacanthus luteus grows up to 8 cm. Its body is uniformly bright yellow, sometimes with a slight orange tint. The dorsal fin is long and low. It has large eyes and a protractile mouth. It is an active fish that often swims in open water. It is curious and may approach the glass. It feeds on zooplankton and small crustaceans. It is known for its hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank of 100 liters is recommended. It needs swimming space and some rockwork. It accepts frozen foods, flakes, and pellets. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate filtration and standard lighting are suitable. It can be kept in small groups.

##### [Blue Damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-caeruleus)
**Pomacentrus caeruleus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Entirely blue damselfish, very common on reefs. Active and hardy, ideal for beginners in marine aquariums.
Pomacentrus caeruleus reaches 8 cm. Its body is uniformly bright blue, sometimes with silvery reflections. Juveniles may have a paler hue. It is a territorial fish that defends its shelter. It feeds on plankton, algae and small crustaceans. In aquariums, it is active and swims throughout the water column. It can become aggressive towards conspecifics if space is insufficient. Its hardiness makes it an excellent choice for community marine tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. A minimum 100-liter tank is suitable. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid very small fish. Provide live rock for hiding places. Can be kept in groups if the tank is large (over 300 L).

##### [Azure damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-coelestis)
**Pomacentrus coelestis** — Pomacentridae · fish
The azure damselfish is a small bright blue marine fish very popular in reef aquariums. It is active and hardy, ideal for beginners.
This fish has an elongated and laterally compressed body, entirely covered in an electric blue color. The fins are also blue, sometimes with silvery reflections. Juveniles are duller and become more vivid as they grow. It reaches up to 7 cm in adulthood. It is a territorial fish and sometimes aggressive towards conspecifics, especially in a small volume. It swims actively throughout the water column and likes to hide in rocks. In the aquarium, it adapts quickly and accepts a wide variety of foods.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.020-1.025. A minimum tank volume of 100 liters is recommended for a single specimen. The aquarium should have plenty of hiding places (live rock) and open swimming space. It is omnivorous: feed with flakes, pellets, brine shrimp and mysis. It can be kept in a group in a large tank, but cohabitation with other damselfish may be conflictual. Avoid overly timid fish as it may harass them. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. It is sensitive to nitrate and phosphate spikes.

##### [Moluccan Damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-moluccensis)
**Pomacentrus moluccensis** — Pomacentridae · fish
Bright yellow damselfish with a black spot on the caudal peduncle. Peaceful and colorful species, suitable for reefs.
Pomacentrus moluccensis grows up to 7 cm. Its body is bright yellow with a characteristic black spot on the caudal peduncle. The fins are yellow, sometimes edged with blue. It is a gregarious species that lives in small groups in the wild. It feeds on zooplankton and algae. In aquariums, it is generally peaceful and can coexist with other reef fish. It enjoys areas with branching coral for hiding. Its bright coloration illuminates the tank.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, KH 8-12, NO3<20, PO4<0.1. Minimum 100-liter tank. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, algae. Compatible with reef invertebrates. Avoid very aggressive fish. Provide live rock and corals for hiding. Can be kept in groups of 3-4 in a 200 L tank.

##### [Peacock Damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-pavo)
**Pomacentrus pavo** — Pomacentridae · fish
Damselfish with blue-green body and iridescent reflections, with a black spot on the operculum. Hardy and colorful species.
Pomacentrus pavo reaches 8 cm. Its body is metallic blue-green with iridescent reflections. A black spot is present on the operculum. The fins are often edged with blue. It is a territorial fish but less aggressive than other damselfish. It feeds on plankton, algae and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it is active and swims in open water. It can be kept in pairs or small groups. Its color-changing appearance depending on the viewing angle is very attractive.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, KH 8-12, NO3<20, PO4<0.1. Minimum 120-liter tank. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with reefs and peaceful fish. Provide live rock and open swimming areas. Can become territorial towards similarly shaped fish. Good filtration is required.

##### [Ocellated Damselfish](/encyclopedia/pomacentrus-vaiuli)
**Pomacentrus vaiuli** — Pomacentridae · fish
Yellow damselfish with a large black ocellated spot on the back. Peaceful and easy to keep species.
Pomacentrus vaiuli grows up to 7 cm. Its body is bright yellow with a large black spot surrounded by a blue ring on the back, just in front of the dorsal fin. The fins are yellow. It is a diurnal species that lives in small groups. It feeds on zooplankton and algae. In aquariums, it is generally peaceful and adapts well. It enjoys hiding places among rocks and corals. Its ocellated spot is a distinctive feature that makes it easily recognizable.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, KH 8-12, NO3<20, PO4<0.1. Minimum 100-liter tank. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, algae. Compatible with reefs and peaceful fish. Provide live rock and corals for hiding. Can be kept in groups of 3-4 in a 200 L tank. Avoid very aggressive fish.

##### [Lawnmower blenny](/encyclopedia/salarias-fasciatus)
**Salarias fasciatus** — Blenniidae · fish
Small herbivorous blenny highly valued in marine aquariums for its efficiency in controlling filamentous algae. It is hardy and easy to keep.
The lawnmower blenny reaches up to 14 cm. Its elongated, laterally compressed body is brownish-green mottled with light and dark spots, with a continuous dorsal fin. It has small comb-like teeth for grazing algae. Males are slightly larger and have a taller dorsal fin than females. It is a territorial fish but generally peaceful towards other species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 75L, Size 14cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 75 L with moderate lighting and plenty of live rock for grazing. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. It feeds mainly on algae but accepts spirulina-based foods and blanched vegetables. Avoid keeping with other herbivorous blennies as it may become aggressive. It can jump, so a lid is recommended.

##### [Fringed blenny](/encyclopedia/salarias-ramosus)
**Salarias ramosus** — Blenniidae · fish
Herbivorous blenny with fringed tentacles on the head.
The fringed blenny is a peaceful fish that grazes on algae. It has characteristic cirri. Ideal for controlling filamentous algae in the reef aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 100L with rocks and algae. Diet based on algae, supplement with spirulina. Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Tiger pistol shrimp](/encyclopedia/alpheus-bellulus)
**Alpheus bellulus** — Alpheidae · invertebrate
The tiger pistol shrimp is known for its claw capable of producing a powerful snapping sound.
Alpheus bellulus, the tiger pistol shrimp, belongs to the family Alpheidae. It has a large claw that, when closed, creates a cavitation bubble producing a deafening snap, used to stun prey or communicate. Its coloration is brown-red with lighter bands. It often lives in symbiosis with gobies of the genera Amblyeleotris or Cryptocentrus, sharing a burrow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires a sandy substrate at least 5 cm deep for burrowing. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Can be kept with a partner goby. Diet: small pieces of fish, brine shrimp, mysis. Avoid burrowing fish.

##### [Lottin's pistol shrimp](/encyclopedia/alpheus-lottini)
**Alpheus lottini** — Alpheidae · invertebrate
Lottin's pistol shrimp is a small symbiotic shrimp that lives in association with gobies, using its claw to dig and defend.
This shrimp has a large claw capable of producing a powerful snap. Its coloration is generally orange or red with patterns. It lives in pairs or groups with a goby that acts as a lookout. It digs burrows in the sand. It is diurnal and feeds on small invertebrates and detritus. Its claw can stun prey. It reaches about 5 cm. It is a fascinating species for reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank size of 30 liters is sufficient. A deep sandy substrate is needed for burrowing. It feeds on small pieces of fish, shrimp, and frozen foods. Moderate lighting and moderate flow are suitable. It is generally peaceful but can be territorial with other shrimp. Cohabitation with a goby is recommended. Captive breeding is possible but difficult.

##### [Randall's pistol shrimp](/encyclopedia/alpheus-randalli)
**Alpheus randalli** — Alpheidae · invertebrate
Symbiotic pistol shrimp that digs burrows and lives in association with gobies. Its claw snap is characteristic.
Randall's pistol shrimp is a small, stocky shrimp with a bright orange body and white spots. It has a large asymmetrical claw that produces a powerful snap capable of stunning prey. It lives in symbiosis with gobies of the genus Amblyeleotris or Cryptocentrus: the shrimp digs and maintains the burrow, while the goby stands guard. In an aquarium, this duo is highly appreciated for its fascinating behavior.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Deep sandy substrate (10 cm) for digging. Pair with a partner goby. Feed with frozen meaty foods and pellets. Avoid aggressive burrowing fish.

##### [Cleaner shrimp](/encyclopedia/lysmata-amboinensis)
**Lysmata amboinensis** — Hippolytidae · invertebrate
The cleaner shrimp is a popular marine invertebrate that cleans fish of parasites.
The cleaner shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) is a marine shrimp species of the family Hippolytidae. It is recognizable by its bright red coloration with a white longitudinal stripe on the back and white antennae. Highly valued in reef aquariums, it establishes cleaning stations where it removes parasites and dead tissue from fish. Its active behavior and coloration make it an aesthetic and useful addition.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain water quality with salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C, and nitrates below 20 ppm. Provide hiding places and a varied diet (brine shrimp, mysis, invertebrate food). Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Fire shrimp](/encyclopedia/lysmata-debelius)
**Lysmata debelius** — Hippolytidae · invertebrate
The fire shrimp is a bright red shrimp highly prized for its intense color and shy behavior.
Lysmata debelius, commonly known as the fire shrimp or Debelius' shrimp, is a marine shrimp species of the family Hippolytidae. It is distinguished by its uniform bright red color and long white antennae. Unlike the cleaner shrimp, it is shyer and prefers shaded areas of the reef. It is often kept in reef aquariums for its beauty but requires careful acclimation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to L. amboinensis: salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Provide plenty of hiding places (live rock). Diet: small crustaceans, brine shrimp, mysis. Avoid territorial fish.

##### [Banded coral shrimp](/encyclopedia/stenopus-hispidus)
**Stenopus hispidus** — Stenopodidae · invertebrate
The banded coral shrimp is easily recognized by its red and white bands and long claws.
Stenopus hispidus, the banded coral shrimp, is a marine shrimp species of the family Stenopodidae. It displays a characteristic red and white banded pattern and long claws. It is often seen in pairs, cleaning fish. Unlike Lysmata, it is more robust and can be aggressive towards other shrimp. It requires a well-established aquarium with hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Provide caves and overhangs. Diet: brine shrimp, mysis, small pieces of fish. Can be kept in pairs. Avoid other similarly sized shrimp.

##### [Spotted boxer shrimp](/encyclopedia/stenopus-scutellatus)
**Stenopus scutellatus** — Stenopodidae · invertebrate
The spotted boxer shrimp is a small reef shrimp recognizable by its long antennae and white spots. It is popular in marine aquariums for its active behavior.
Stenopus scutellatus, commonly known as the spotted boxer shrimp, is a species of shrimp in the family Stenopodidae. It grows up to 5 cm. Its body is translucent with white spots and red bands. It has long antennae and claws. It lives in pairs in reef crevices. It is territorial and can be aggressive towards other shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a reef aquarium of at least 50 liters with plenty of hiding places. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Varied diet: brine shrimp, mysis, frozen food. Avoid aggressive fish. Can be kept in pairs.

##### [Fine-beaked banded shrimp](/encyclopedia/stenopus-tenuirostris)
**Stenopus tenuirostris** — Stenopodidae · invertebrate
The fine-beaked banded shrimp is a cleaner shrimp with long antennae and characteristic red and white bands.
This shrimp has an elongated body with red and white bands. Its antennae are very long and thin. It is an active cleaner that removes parasites from fish. It often lives in pairs. It is diurnal and moves on rocks. It can reach 8 cm in length. It is a highly appreciated species in reef aquariums. It is generally peaceful but can be territorial with other cleaner shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Moderate lighting and moderate to strong flow are ideal. It feeds on parasites, but also frozen foods and flakes. It needs hiding places and rocks. It can be kept in pairs. Avoid keeping with aggressive fish. Captive breeding is possible but delicate.

##### [Wavy astraea](/encyclopedia/astraea-undosa)
**Astraea undosa** — Turbinidae · invertebrate
Herbivorous marine snail with a wavy shell, excellent algae cleaner.
Astraea undosa is a marine snail from the Turbinidae family. Its thick, conical shell has characteristic wavy ridges. It is highly valued in aquariums for its ability to graze on filamentous algae and diatoms on rocks and glass. Nocturnal, it hides during the day. Hardy and easy to keep.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-26°C, salinity 1.023-1.025. pH 8.1-8.4. Provide live rock with algae. Avoid predators like crabs. May need calcium supplementation for shell growth.

##### [Elegant hermit crab](/encyclopedia/calcinus-elegans)
**Calcinus elegans** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Colorful and active hermit crab, very popular in reef aquariums. It regularly changes shells and helps clean up waste.
Calcinus elegans has bright blue, orange, and white legs and claws, with black eyes on stalks. It reaches up to 4 cm in length (excluding shell). It carries a gastropod shell which it changes as it grows. It is an opportunistic omnivore feeding on algae, detritus, leftover food, and small invertebrates. It is very active and constantly explores the tank. It can be slightly aggressive towards other hermit crabs for shells. It is generally compatible with peaceful fish and corals.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. Diet: dried algae, herbivore pellets, pieces of shrimp, mussels. A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended for one individual. It needs many empty shells of various sizes to change into. Sandy substrate and rocks are necessary. It can be kept in groups if enough shells are available. Avoid aggressive fish or predatory crabs. It is sensitive to high nitrates. Good oxygenation is important.

##### [Ivory cerith](/encyclopedia/cerithium-eburneum)
**Cerithium eburneum** — Cerithiidae · invertebrate
Small marine snail very useful for cleaning sand and algae.
The ivory cerith is a small marine snail (2-3 cm) with an elongated white shell. It lives in sandy areas of coral reefs where it feeds on detritus and algae. It is an excellent cleaner for reef aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain salinity 1.023-1.025 and temperature 22-28°C. Provide a sandy substrate for burrowing. Compatible with peaceful fish and corals.

##### [Spotted hermit crab](/encyclopedia/dardanus-megistos)
**Dardanus megistos** — Diogenidae · invertebrate
Large spotted hermit crab, very decorative but requires a large aquarium. It is active and hardy.
Dardanus megistos has bright red-orange legs and claws with white and black spots. It can reach 10 cm in length (excluding shell). It carries a large gastropod shell, often a conch or strombus. It is an omnivore feeding on algae, detritus, carrion, and small invertebrates. It is very active and can move rocks. It can be aggressive towards other crustaceans and small fish. It needs plenty of space and hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. Diet: algae, meaty pellets, shrimp, mussels, fish pieces. A tank of at least 200 liters is necessary for an adult. It needs large empty shells (10-15 cm) to change into. Sandy substrate and plenty of rocks are essential. It is compatible with medium to large fish, but not with small fish or delicate invertebrates. It may uproot plants. Powerful filtration is required.

##### [Incarnate bumblebee](/encyclopedia/engina-incarnata)
**Engina incarnata** — Buccinidae · invertebrate
Small carnivorous snail with a colorful shell, useful for controlling small prey.
Engina incarnata is a 2-3 cm marine snail with a white shell with brown bands and a pink aperture. It feeds on small invertebrates and can help control small slugs or worms. Caution: it may attack small snails.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 22-28°C. Provide rock hiding places. Do not keep with very small decorative snails.

##### [Bumblebee snail](/encyclopedia/engina-mendicaria)
**Engina mendicaria** — Buccinidae · invertebrate
The bumblebee snail is a small marine gastropod with black and yellow bands, popular in reef aquariums as a scavenger.
Engina mendicaria reaches an adult size of 2 to 3 cm. Its shell is conical, thick, with prominent spiral ridges. The coloration is distinctive: alternating black and yellow bands reminiscent of a bumblebee. The body is cream-white with a long retractable proboscis. It is a nocturnal and secretive snail. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 10 gallons (40 L) is recommended for a small group. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A sandy or rocky substrate with plenty of hiding places is ideal. Omnivorous, it feeds on leftover food, detritus, and small invertebrates; it will also accept frozen meaty foods. Caution: it may prey on small ornamental snails. Generally peaceful but can be competitive for food. Calcium supplementation is beneficial for shell health.

##### [Horse's hoof clam](/encyclopedia/hippopus-hippopus)
**Hippopus hippopus** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
Large thick-shelled clam with a rough, hoof-like shape, often buried in sand. A filter feeder requiring strong lighting.
The horse's hoof clam is a bivalve mollusk of the family Tridacnidae. Its massive shell, reaching up to 30 cm, features radial ribs and variable coloration (brown, green, yellow). It lives buried in sandy substrates of coral reefs, exposing only its mantle. Like other Tridacnidae, it hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae in its tissues, requiring strong lighting. It also feeds by filtering phytoplankton.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: NT
Mature marine aquarium of at least 200 L. Intense lighting (LED or T5) for zooxanthellae. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Maintain high calcium (400-450 ppm) and stable alkalinity (8-12 dKH). Avoid nitrates >10 ppm and phosphates >0.1 ppm. Supplement with phytoplankton if needed. Handle with care as the byssus is fragile.

##### [Porcelain clam](/encyclopedia/hippopus-porcellanus)
**Hippopus porcellanus** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
The porcelain clam is distinguished by its smooth, porcelain-like shell and a mantle often spotted with white and brown.
Hippopus porcellanus is a medium-sized giant clam (up to 30 cm). Its shell is thick, without pronounced ribs, with a smooth and glossy surface. The mantle is usually light brown with white or yellow spots. It lives buried in sand, leaving only its siphon exposed. Like Tridacna, it hosts zooxanthellae but relies more on filtration. It is listed as Near Threatened due to collection for the aquarium trade.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NT
Requires an aquarium with a deep sandy substrate (at least 10 cm) to allow burrowing. Stable water: temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, calcium 400-450 ppm, alkalinity 8-12 dKH. Moderate to intense lighting. It is less demanding in light than Tridacna but needs good water quality with nitrates <10 ppm. Avoid burrowing fish or invertebrates that might disturb it.

##### [Casket nassarius](/encyclopedia/nassarius-arcularia)
**Nassarius arcularia** — Nassariidae · invertebrate
Scavenger snail from Indo-Pacific reefs, very efficient at cleaning waste. It buries in sand and emerges quickly at the smell of food.
The shell of Nassarius arcularia is globular, cream with brown spiral bands and nodules. It reaches up to 2.5 cm. The foot is broad and spotted black. It has a long tubular siphon. It is an active scavenger feeding on decaying organic matter. It is often seen in groups on the sand. It is very responsive to food and can emerge from sand in seconds. It is harmless to corals and fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. Diet: pieces of fish, shrimp, meaty pellets. A tank of at least 30 liters is recommended. It needs a fine sandy substrate for burrowing. Compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid predatory fish. It can be kept in groups. It is sensitive to high nitrates and phosphates. Good water flow is appreciated.

##### [Distorted nassarius](/encyclopedia/nassarius-distortus)
**Nassarius distortus** — Nassariidae · invertebrate
Scavenger snail that cleans up food waste and carcasses.
The distorted nassarius is a 2-3 cm marine snail with a brownish spiral shell. It is an active scavenger that quickly detects food and buries itself in the sand. Ideal for keeping an aquarium clean.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 22-28°C. Sandy substrate required. Can be kept in groups. Avoid predatory fish.

##### [Thick brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophiarachna-incrassata)
**Ophiarachna incrassata** — Ophiodermatidae · invertebrate
The thick brittle star is a large predatory brittle star, recognizable by its thick arms and green or brown coloration.
This brittle star has a large central disc and five thick, spiny arms. Its coloration ranges from olive green to dark brown, sometimes with patterns. It is nocturnal and hides in crevices during the day. It is an opportunistic predator that captures small fish and invertebrates. Its arms are fragile and can regenerate. It can reach 20 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is required. Diet should include pieces of fish, shrimp, or mussels. Avoid keeping with very small fish as it may eat them. Low lighting and moderate flow are suitable. Sandy substrate and rocks for hiding are important. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Spiny brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophiocoma-erinaceus)
**Ophiocoma erinaceus** — Ophiocomidae · invertebrate
The spiny brittle star is a fragile starfish with long spiny arms, highly valued in reef aquariums for its scavenging role.
Ophiocoma erinaceus has a central disc up to 2–3 cm in diameter and very long, slender arms that can extend up to 20 cm. The arms are covered with robust, movable spines, giving it its common name. Coloration ranges from dark brown to gray, often with marbled or spotted patterns. It is a nocturnal species that hides during the day and emerges at night to feed. There is no obvious sexual dimorphism, but sexes are separate. It moves quickly across the substrate using its flexible arms.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 30-gallon (120 L) aquarium is recommended, with a sandy substrate and plenty of live rock hiding spots. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It feeds on detritus, leftover food, and small prey; supplemental meaty foods (mysis, brine shrimp) are beneficial. Compatible with most fish and corals, but may threaten very small shrimp or fish if underfed. Avoid copper-based treatments and sudden salinity changes.

##### [Superb brittle star](/encyclopedia/ophiolepis-superba)
**Ophiolepis superba** — Ophiolepididae · invertebrate
The superb brittle star is a delicate starfish with slender arms, highly valued in reef aquariums for its scavenging role.
Ophiolepis superba has a pentagonal central disc 1–2 cm in diameter, covered with fine imbricate scales. Its five very long, slender arms can reach 15 cm in span, with short, regular lateral spines. Coloration is light brown to beige, with darker transverse bands on the arms. It is a nocturnal and secretive species, hiding during the day. Sexual dimorphism is not apparent.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 80 liters is recommended for this brittle star, with a sandy or rocky substrate and plenty of hiding places. Water parameters should be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. It feeds on detritus, leftover food, and small prey; supplemental feeding with finely chopped meaty foods is beneficial. Compatible with most reef fish and invertebrates, but avoid very small shrimp or fish that might stress it. Be cautious with pumps and filters: arms can get caught.

##### [Crocea clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-crocea)
**Tridacna crocea** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
Small clam with bright colors, often used in nano-reefs.
The crocea clam is the smallest of the common clams, reaching 15 cm. It is very colorful (blue, green, orange). It embeds in rock. It requires intense light and high water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Ideal for small reef aquariums. Strong lighting. Stable water, low nitrates. Diet: phytoplankton. Careful not to move it.

##### [Derasa clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-derasa)
**Tridacna derasa** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
The derasa clam is a large, colorful bivalve highly prized in reef aquariums for its symbiosis with zooxanthellae.
Tridacna derasa is a giant clam species reaching up to 40 cm. Its shell is thick with faint radial ribs. The mantle often displays wavy patterns in shades of green, blue, purple, or brown. Like all Tridacnidae, it hosts symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) that provide most of its nutrition, supplemented by water filtration. It is considered vulnerable due to overexploitation for the aquarium trade and food.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: VU
Maintain very stable water with temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026, calcium 400-450 ppm, alkalinity 8-12 dKH, and nitrates <10 ppm. Intense lighting (LED or T5) is essential for the zooxanthellae. Place on a sandy substrate or flat rock at mid-height in the aquarium. Avoid strong direct currents. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations and predators such as angelfish or crustaceans.

##### [Giant clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-gigas)
**Tridacna gigas** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
The largest bivalve in the world, reaching 1.2 m. Threatened by overfishing.
The giant clam is an iconic bivalve mollusk of coral reefs. It can weigh over 200 kg. It lives in symbiosis with zooxanthellae algae, requiring intense light. Its shell is thick and wavy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 1000L, Size 120cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: VU
Requires a very large aquarium (min 1000 L) with strong lighting. Very clean water, low nitrates. Diet: phytoplankton. Careful with flow.

##### [Maxima clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-maxima)
**Tridacna maxima** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
Medium-sized clam, very colorful, popular in reef aquariums.
The maxima clam is a bivalve with bright colors (blue, green, purple). It grows up to 30 cm. It is often embedded in coral. It requires intense light and stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 30cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: NT
Reef aquarium with strong lighting. Very clean water, nitrates <5 ppm. Diet: phytoplankton. Watch for parasites.

##### [Fluted clam](/encyclopedia/tridacna-squamosa)
**Tridacna squamosa** — Tridacnidae · invertebrate
The fluted clam is a large clam with thick, wavy valves. It is very decorative and contributes to water filtration.
Tridacna squamosa is a clam of the family Tridacnidae. It can reach 40 cm. Its shell is thick with scales and undulations. Its mantle is colorful (blue, green, brown) with patterns. It lives attached to rocks. It feeds on phytoplankton and zooplankton through its gills. It has symbiotic zooxanthellae.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 40cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: NT
Requires a reef aquarium of at least 200 liters with intense lighting (for zooxanthellae) and moderate flow. Salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: liquid phytoplankton, microalgae. Avoid high nitrate and phosphate levels. Handle with care as the byssus is fragile.

##### [Histrio trochus](/encyclopedia/trochus-histrio)
**Trochus histrio** — Trochidae · invertebrate
Modest-sized herbivorous snail, excellent algae cleaner. Its conical shell with flame-like patterns is highly sought after.
Trochus histrio has a slender conical shell, often adorned with brown or red flames on a light background. It reaches 3-4 cm in diameter. It grazes algae on rocks and glass with a powerful radula. Mostly active at night, it can also be seen during the day in calm aquariums. It moves with measured slowness but covers large distances. It is very tolerant of parameter fluctuations. It poses no danger to hard or soft corals. Reproduction in captivity is rare but possible under optimal conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum volume of 40 liters is sufficient for one individual. It feeds on natural algae, but can be supplemented with dried algae. Nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm, phosphates below 0.1 ppm. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid predators such as angelfish or crabs. Slow acclimation is recommended. It can be kept in groups, but sufficient space is needed to avoid food competition.

##### [Spotted trochus](/encyclopedia/trochus-maculatus)
**Trochus maculatus** — Trochidae · invertebrate
Highly effective herbivorous snail for cleaning algae from glass and rocks. Its spotted conical shell is very decorative.
Trochus maculatus has a solid conical shell, cream to brown with irregular dark spots. It typically measures 3-5 cm in diameter. It moves actively over all surfaces, grazing on green algae, brown algae, and diatoms. It is both diurnal and nocturnal, often visible during the day. Its horny operculum allows it to close tightly. It is very hardy and adapts well to established aquariums. It never attacks corals or sessile invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Ideal temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a small group. It feeds mainly on existing algae, but may accept algae tablets or blanched vegetables. Nitrates should stay below 20 ppm and phosphates below 0.1 ppm. It is fully compatible with peaceful fish and corals. Avoid predatory fish such as triggerfish or wrasses. Drip acclimation is advised. It can be kept in groups without aggression.

##### [Trochus snail](/encyclopedia/trochus-niloticus)
**Trochus niloticus** — Trochidae · invertebrate
The Trochus snail is a popular marine herbivore in reef aquariums, valued for its algae-cleaning efficiency. Its robust conical shell with spiral patterns makes it both aesthetic and functional.
Trochus niloticus has a thick conical shell, cream to grayish in color with brown or red spiral bands. Adults reach about 5 cm in diameter. Its operculum is dark brown and horny. It is a slow, peaceful grazer, mostly active at night. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, though females tend to be larger.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum tank size of 40 L is sufficient for one specimen, but larger (100 L+) provides better stability. Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A rocky setup with grazing surfaces is ideal. Diet: natural microalgae, supplement with dried seaweed if needed. Compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Beware of predators like crabs or angelfish. Avoid copper-based treatments.

##### [Pyramid trochus](/encyclopedia/trochus-pyramis)
**Trochus pyramis** — Trochidae · invertebrate
Large herbivorous snail with a pyramidal shell, very effective for algae control. It is robust and easy to maintain.
Trochus pyramis has a very high conical shell, pyramid-shaped, cream to gray with brown spiral bands. It can reach 8 cm in diameter. It moves slowly but grazes large areas of algae. Active day and night, it is often seen on rocks and substrate. Its operculum is thick and horny. It is very hardy and can survive in less stable conditions. It never attacks corals. Its large size requires a spacious aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 7-9
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended due to its adult size. It feeds on algae, but may accept dried algae or vegetables. Nitrates should be below 20 ppm, phosphates below 0.1 ppm. It is compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Avoid predators that can flip it over. Slow acclimation is necessary. It can be kept alone or in small groups, but space must be sufficient.

##### [Hawaiian trochus](/encyclopedia/trochus-sandwichensis)
**Trochus sandwichensis** — Trochidae · invertebrate
Herbivorous snail with a conical shell, very effective at cleaning algae from glass and rocks.
Trochus sandwichensis is a marine snail from the Trochidae family, native to Hawaii. Its conical, spiraled shell is often patterned. It is diurnal and active, constantly grazing on algae. Very popular in reef aquariums for its efficiency and compatibility with corals. Occasionally reproduces in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.024-1.026. pH 8.1-8.4. Ensure plenty of algae. Avoid fish that may flip them. May need calcium supplementation.

##### [Killer algae](/encyclopedia/caulerpa-taxifolia)
**Caulerpa taxifolia** — Caulerpaceae · plant
Fast-growing green macroalgae, decorative but invasive.
Green alga with yew-like fronds, can form vast mats. Very fast growth, needs regular trimming.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Medium to strong light, stable water. Keep in a dedicated tank or refugium as it is very invasive.

##### [Spaghetti algae](/encyclopedia/chaetomorpha-linum)
**Chaetomorpha linum** — Cladophoraceae · plant
Filamentous alga ideal for refugiums and nitrate absorption.
Green filamentous alga in dense tufts, very effective at absorbing nitrates and phosphates. Fast growth.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, nutrient-rich water. Ideal in a refugium for nutrient export.

##### [Red ogo](/encyclopedia/gracilaria-parvispora)
**Gracilaria parvispora** — Gracilariaceae · plant
Branched red alga, excellent for refugiums and feeding.
Finely branched red alga, much appreciated by herbivorous fish and invertebrates. Fast growth.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, nutrient-rich water. Ideal in a refugium.

##### [Cactus algae](/encyclopedia/halimeda-opuntia)
**Halimeda opuntia** — Halimedaceae · plant
Segmented calcareous alga, very decorative, contributes to reef structure.
Calcareous alga with articulated cactus-like segments. Fixes calcium, contributes to reef structure.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, stable calcium and alkalinity. Fragile, handle with care.

##### [Sea lettuce](/encyclopedia/ulva-lactuca)
**Ulva lactuca** — Ulvaceae · plant
Leafy green alga, much appreciated by herbivorous fish.
Green alga in thin translucent leaves. Food source for herbivorous fish and invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.026
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong light, nutrient-rich water. Fast growth, trim regularly.

### Mediterranean

##### [Golden grey mullet](/encyclopedia/liza-aurata)
**Liza aurata** — Mugilidae · fish
Estuary fish forming surface schools, with golden sheen.
Stocky mullet with broad head, silvery flanks marked by a golden spot behind the eye. Schools in estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 12-26°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-25, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 40cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 400 L tank for a school. Brackish (salinity 1.005-1.020). Temperature 12-26°C, pH 7.5-8.5. Omnivore (detritus, algae, plankton).

##### [Common prawn](/encyclopedia/palaemon-serratus)
**Palaemon serratus** · invertebrate
The common prawn is a large translucent striped Atlantic coastal shrimp, traditionally fished in Europe.
Palaemon serratus reaches 6-11 cm. Its body is translucent with brown-red and sometimes bluish transverse bands. Legs and antennae are long. It lives in seagrass beds and shallow rocky areas, often in small groups. Omnivorous, it feeds on small crustaceans, algae, and detritus.
Parameters: Temperature 12-22°C, pH 7.8-8.4, GH 7-10, Salinity 1.018-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 11cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 80 L tank with rocky decor and hiding spots. Salinity 1.018-1.025 (seawater). Temperature 12-22°C (temperate waters). Compatible with peaceful fish and other invertebrates. Varied diet: brine shrimp, mysis, pellets, blanched vegetables. Sensitive to nitrates, regular water changes.

##### [Grape Coral](/encyclopedia/euphyllia-cristata)
**Euphyllia cristata** — Euphylliidae · coral
LPS coral with large fleshy polyps resembling grapes. Requires stable water and moderate lighting.
Euphyllia cristata forms massive colonies with swollen, rounded polyps, often green or brown. Polyps can reach 5 cm in diameter. It has short, puffy tentacles. It is an aggressive coral that can extend stinging tentacles at night. It feeds on medium-sized prey like brine shrimp. Growth is slow. It is sensitive to parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.024-1.026
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 30cm, Diet suspension
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.024-1.026, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1300-1400 mg/L. Moderate lighting, low to moderate flow. Minimum tank volume 100 L. Feeding: brine shrimp, mysis, small fish. Compatible with reef fish, but avoid nearby corals. Propagation by fragmentation. Keep water very clean.

##### [Sohal tang](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-sohal)
**Acanthurus sohal** — Acanthuridae · fish
A large surgeonfish with a gray-blue body and dark vertical bands. Very aggressive, for experienced aquarists only.
The sohal tang can reach 40 cm. Its body is gray-blue with dark vertical bands and an orange spot at the base of the pectoral fin. Its caudal fin is crescent-shaped. It has a very developed caudal spine. It is one of the most aggressive surgeonfish, dominating the entire aquarium. It needs a very large volume and powerful filtration. In the wild, it lives in harems with a dominant male.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 500L, Size 40cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 500 L, ideally 800 L or more. Stable seawater (salinity 1.023–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Very aggressive, do not keep with other surgeonfish or shy fish. A powerful protein skimmer is essential. Water changes must be frequent. Keep nitrates and phosphates very low.

##### [Masked Butterflyfish](/encyclopedia/chaetodon-semilarvatus)
**Chaetodon semilarvatus** — Chaetodontidae · fish
The Masked Butterflyfish is a fish endemic to the Red Sea, recognizable by its bright yellow coloration and black mask. It is highly prized by aquarists.
Chaetodon semilarvatus has a bright yellow body with a broad vertical black band on the head covering the eye. Another black band is on the caudal peduncle. The fins are yellow with black edges. It is active and swims in pairs or small groups. In an aquarium, it is relatively hardy but requires a varied diet. It can be kept with other peaceful fish. It tends to nip at corals, so not recommended for reefs. Its intense coloration makes it a very decorative fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
An aquarium of at least 300 liters is recommended. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. It is omnivorous and accepts frozen, dry, and live foods. It is important to provide a diet rich in spirulina and brine shrimp. It can be kept as a pair. Avoid aggressive fish. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. Captive breeding is rare.

##### [Red-bellied fairy wrasse](/encyclopedia/cirrhilabrus-rubriventralis)
**Cirrhilabrus rubriventralis** — Labridae · fish
The red-bellied fairy wrasse is an elegant reef fish with a bright red belly. It is peaceful and highly sought after for reef aquariums.
This fish reaches 9 cm. Males have a blue-green body with a broad red band on the belly and elongated dorsal and anal fins. Females are duller, often orange-pink. It is diurnal and swims in groups in the wild. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It feeds on zooplankton and small invertebrates. In aquariums, it is active but non-aggressive. It needs plenty of hiding spots and open swimming space. It may jump, so a lid is necessary.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 9cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume 250 liters. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, mysis, copepods, frozen food. It is very peaceful, ideal for a community reef tank. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish. A lid is mandatory. It enjoys a well-structured aquarium with live rock and open areas. It can be kept in a harem (1 male with several females). Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.05 mg/L. Stable water is essential.

##### [Yellowtail tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-xanthurum)
**Zebrasoma xanthurum** — Acanthuridae · fish
A surgeonfish with a purplish-brown body and bright yellow tail. Less common than the yellow tang, but equally appreciated.
The yellowtail tang has an oval body, purplish-brown with bluish highlights. Its caudal fin is bright yellow, contrasting with the body. It has a sharp caudal spine. Adults reach up to 20 cm. It is active and constantly swims in search of algae. In the aquarium, it can be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. It needs a large volume to swim freely.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 300 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Avoid cohabitation with other surgeonfish in a small volume. Parameters must be stable, with low nitrates. A protein skimmer is recommended.

##### [Two-band clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-bicinctus)
**Amphiprion bicinctus** — Pomacentridae · fish
The two-band clownfish is a large clownfish from the Red Sea, recognizable by its two vertical white bands. It is hardy and suitable for reef aquariums.
Amphiprion bicinctus has a bright orange body with two vertical white bands: one behind the eye and one mid-body. The tail is white or yellow. It can reach 14 cm. It is a territorial fish, but less aggressive than some. It lives in symbiosis with anemones (Entacmaea, Stichodactyla). It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods. Captive breeding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 100 liters. Diet omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis. Compatibility: can coexist with other peaceful fish, but territorial towards other clownfish. Ideal in pair. Needs hiding spots. Can be kept in reef. Good filtration required. Susceptible to diseases if stressed.

##### [Sebae clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-sebae)
**Amphiprion sebae** — Pomacentridae · fish
The Sebae clownfish is a medium-sized clownfish, characterized by its bright yellow tail and white band behind the eye. It is appreciated in reef aquariums for its hardiness and symbiosis with anemones.
Amphiprion sebae has a bright orange body with a vertical white band behind the eye and a yellow tail. Fins are orange. It can reach 12 cm. It is a territorial fish that lives in symbiosis with anemones (Stichodactyla, Heteractis). It is hardier than other clownfish. In aquariums, it can be kept without anemone. It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods. Captive breeding is common.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 100 liters. Diet omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis. Compatibility: can coexist with other peaceful fish, but territorial towards other clownfish. Ideal in pair. Needs hiding spots. Can be kept in reef. Good filtration required. Sensitive to salinity fluctuations.

##### [Banded cleaner shrimp](/encyclopedia/lysmata-grabhami)
**Lysmata grabhami** — Hippolytidae · invertebrate
Cleaner shrimp with red and white bands, very active and useful for parasite control. It cleans fish and corals.
The banded cleaner shrimp is an elegant species with a translucent body adorned with longitudinal red and white bands. It has long antennae and fine claws. It is a professional cleaner that sets up cleaning stations where fish come to have their parasites removed. In an aquarium, it is highly appreciated for its active behavior and ability to reduce diseases. It is hermaphroditic and can reproduce in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Reef aquarium with live rock and hiding places. Feed with frozen meaty foods, brine shrimp and mysis. Avoid aggressive fish or shrimp predators.

##### [Killer algae](/encyclopedia/caulerpa-taxifolia)
**Caulerpa taxifolia** — Caulerpaceae · plant
Fast-growing green macroalgae, decorative but invasive.
Green alga with yew-like fronds, can form vast mats. Very fast growth, needs regular trimming.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Medium to strong light, stable water. Keep in a dedicated tank or refugium as it is very invasive.

### West Africa

##### [Atlantic mudskipper](/encyclopedia/periophthalmus-barbarus)
**Periophthalmus barbarus** — Gobiidae · fish
Iconic amphibious fish of mangroves, lives out of water on mudflats.
Amphibious fish that spends most of its time out of water, on mudflats and mangrove roots. Jumps and crawls using its pectoral fins.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Paludarium tank with land area and brackish water. Strong light, temperature 24-30°C.

##### [Zebra nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-reclinata)
**Neritina reclinata** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Robust nerite snail, excellent algae cleaner in brackish water.
Small snail with striped shell, very effective at cleaning algae. Tolerates brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Brackish water, abundant algae. Compatible with peaceful brackish fish.

##### [Red mangrove](/encyclopedia/rhizophora-mangle)
**Rhizophora mangle** — Rhizophoraceae · plant
Iconic mangrove tree, ideal for brackish tanks.
Tree with characteristic stilt roots, forming mangroves. In aquaria, grown emersed with roots in brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, brackish water (salinity 1.005-1.020). Roots submerged, leaves emersed.

##### [Australe killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-australe)
**Aphyosemion australe** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
The australe killifish is a small colorful fish, ideal for nano-aquariums. It is peaceful but males can be territorial with each other.
The body is elongated and slender, with variable coloration depending on the population: generally metallic blue with red spots on the flanks and yellow-green fins. Males are more colorful than females. The caudal fin is often lyre-shaped. This species is a surface fish, enjoying calm and shaded areas. It is very active and sometimes jumps out of the water. In aquariums, it often stays near the surface. Adult size is 5-6 cm. Lifespan is 2-3 years. Reproduction is easy: eggs are laid on mops or fine-leaved plants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A 30-liter aquarium is sufficient for a pair or trio (1 male to 2 females). The tank should be heavily planted with shaded areas and floating cover. Filtration should be gentle (sponge). Ideal temperature is 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.0, hardness 2-8 dGH. Diet is carnivorous: artemia, daphnia, bloodworms, small insects. Avoid overly active or large tankmates. Water changes should be moderate (10-15% weekly). A lid is essential as they jump. Reproduction is easy: remove eggs regularly to prevent predation.

##### [Two-banded killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-bivittatum)
**Aphyosemion bivittatum** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
The two-banded killifish is a small peaceful fish with bright colors, easy to keep and breed. It is perfect for beginners in killifish.
The body is elongated and slightly laterally compressed. The base coloration is brown-yellow with two characteristic dark longitudinal bands: one median and one lower. The fins are often tinted red or orange in males. Females are duller. This species is very active and generally stays near the surface. It is peaceful and can coexist with other small calm fish. Adult size is 5-6 cm. Lifespan is 2-3 years. Reproduction is easy: eggs are laid on fine-leaved plants or mops.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A 30-liter aquarium is sufficient for a pair or trio. The tank should be planted with shaded areas and floating cover. Filtration should be gentle (sponge). Ideal temperature is 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.0, hardness 2-8 dGH. Diet is carnivorous: artemia, daphnia, bloodworms, small insects. Avoid overly large or aggressive fish. Water changes should be moderate (10-15% weekly). A lid is essential. Reproduction is simple: remove eggs to incubate separately.

##### [Celestial killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-coeleste)
**Aphyosemion coeleste** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Aphyosemion coeleste is a small, brightly colored killifish highly prized by specialized aquarists. It is distinguished by its sky-blue body dotted with red spots.
This killifish reaches about 4–5 cm. Males display an intense electric blue with red spots on the flanks and caudal fin. Females are duller, brownish with a few spots. It is a peaceful species but males can be territorial with each other. In the aquarium, it prefers soft, acidic water with dense vegetation and subdued lighting. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate (Java moss or peat fibers). The eggs require a drying period to hatch (incubation 3–6 weeks).
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-6.8, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep soft water (GH 2–6, KH 1–3) and acidic (pH 6.0–6.8) at a temperature of 22–26°C. A minimum tank volume of 30 liters is recommended for a pair. Feed a varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and small pellets. Avoid strong currents. Use gentle filtration (sponge or foam). Floating plants and hiding spots are appreciated. Sensitive to nitrates (max 20 mg/L). Regular water changes (20% weekly). Compatible with other small peaceful fish (rasboras, small corydoras).

##### [Gardner's killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-gardneri)
**Aphyosemion gardneri** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Aphyosemion gardneri is a popular killifish in the hobby, recognizable by its metallic blue-green colors and red-edged fins.
Males reach up to 6 cm and display an iridescent blue-green body with red spots on the flanks. The unpaired fins are edged in bright red. Females are brownish with dark spots. This is an active, curious species that occupies the middle water column. In the aquarium, it enjoys soft, acidic water, abundant vegetation, and shaded areas. Reproduction is similar to other Aphyosemion: substrate spawning with dry incubation of 4–8 weeks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal parameters: pH 6.0–7.0, GH 2–8, KH 1–4, temperature 22–26°C. A minimum 40-liter tank for a pair. Varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, small pellets. Gentle filtration, moderate lighting. Floating plants recommended. Sensitive to nitrates (max 20 mg/L). Weekly 20% water changes. Compatible with other small peaceful fish (neon tetras, small corydoras). Avoid fast or aggressive species.

##### [Striped killifish](/encyclopedia/aphyosemion-striatum)
**Aphyosemion striatum** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Aphyosemion striatum is recognized by its dark horizontal stripes on a light background, hence its name. It is an elegant killifish and relatively easy to keep.
This killifish reaches 4–5 cm. Males have a beige to yellow body with 4–6 brown longitudinal stripes, and fins tinted red and yellow. Females are duller with less distinct stripes. It is a peaceful species, ideal for a community tank of small fish. It prefers soft, slightly acidic water with dense vegetation. Reproduction is classic: substrate spawning (moss or peat) and dry incubation of 3–5 weeks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.2, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 6.0–7.2, GH 3–8, KH 1–4, temperature 22–26°C. Minimum 30 liters for a pair. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, flakes. Gentle filtration, moderate lighting. Floating plants and hiding spots. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Weekly 20% water changes. Compatible with small tetras, rasboras, corydoras. Avoid large or aggressive fish.

##### [Clown killifish](/encyclopedia/epiplatys-annulatus)
**Epiplatys annulatus** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Small colorful killifish with banded body, ideal for nano tanks.
Epiplatys annulatus is a small fish from the Nothobranchiidae family, native to West Africa. It reaches about 3 cm. Its body is elongated with dark vertical bands on a light background, hence the name 'annulatus'. Males are more colorful with elongated fins. It is a peaceful surface-dwelling fish that lives in groups. It is highly appreciated in aquariums for its small size and colors.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 30 liters, with gentle filtration and floating plants. Acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0-7.0), temperature 24-28°C. Fine food: brine shrimp, microworms, flakes. Surface dweller, provide a clear surface area. Keep in groups of 6+.

##### [False killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-fallax)
**Fundulopanchax fallax** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
A medium-sized killifish, easy to keep, with a variable color pattern. It is appreciated for its hardiness and simple breeding.
Fundulopanchax fallax reaches up to 8 cm. Males are blue-green with red spots and yellow fins, females are light brown. Its body is slender and laterally compressed. It has a lyre-shaped caudal fin in dominant males. It is an active fish that explores all levels of the aquarium. It is generally peaceful but males can be slightly territorial. Its peculiarity is its ability to adapt to a wide range of parameters. It breeds easily on Java moss.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15, KH 1–8. A 40-liter tank minimum is suitable for a pair or small group. Accepts dry, frozen and live foods. Compatible with other peaceful fish. A lid is recommended. Plant the aquarium densely with open areas. Gentle to moderate filtration. Breeding is easy: eggs are laid on plants and hatch in 12–16 days.

##### [Filament killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-filamentosus)
**Fundulopanchax filamentosus** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Elegant killifish with elongated fins, ideal for planted aquariums. It is peaceful and easy to breed.
Fundulopanchax filamentosus reaches up to 7 cm. Males have greatly elongated dorsal, anal and caudal fins, hence their name. Their coloration is blue-green with red spots and golden reflections. Females are smaller and less colorful. The body is slender and compressed. It is a surface fish that enjoys shaded areas. It is very peaceful, even among males. Its peculiarity is the presence of filaments on the fins of males. It breeds by laying eggs on fine-leaved plants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15, KH 1–8. A 40-liter tank minimum is recommended. Accepts dry, frozen and live foods. Compatible with peaceful small fish. A lid is necessary. Plant densely with fine-leaved plants (Java moss, Cabomba). Gentle filtration to avoid damaging the fins. Breeding is simple: eggs hatch in 10–14 days.

##### [Gardner's killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-gardneri)
**Fundulopanchax gardneri** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Gardner's killifish is an annual or semi-annual fish, with variable colors depending on populations, very adaptable.
Fundulopanchax gardneri reaches 6-8 cm. The male is colored blue, green, yellow and red depending on locality. The fins are large and often edged with white. The female is smaller and dull. It is a surface and mid-water fish. It is less aggressive than other killies. It can live more than a year in aquariums. It jumps easily, hence a lid is necessary. It is omnivorous with carnivorous tendency.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of 40-60 L for a pair or small group. Water should be soft (GH 3-8), acidic to neutral (pH 6.5-7.0), temperature 24-28°C. A gentle filter. Floating plants and moss appreciated. Carnivorous: artemia, daphnia, small worms. Compatible with other small peaceful fish (rasboras, corydoras) but avoid overly active species. Easy reproduction: spawn on plants or moss, eggs can be collected. No mandatory diapause.

##### [Nigerian Killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-nigerianus)
**Fundulopanchax nigerianus** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
The Nigerian Killifish is a small, brightly colored fish highly prized by specialized aquarists. It requires soft, acidic water and live food.
Fundulopanchax nigerianus reaches about 5 cm. Males display a complex pattern of red, blue and yellow spots on a brownish-green background. Females are duller. This killifish is a bottom-dweller that enjoys dense vegetation. It is known for its ability to jump out of the water. In the aquarium it is peaceful but can be shy. Reproduction occurs by spawning on peat substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
Keep this killifish in a minimum 40 L tank with a tight lid. Water should be soft (GH 5-15, KH 2-8), acidic (pH 6.0-7.0) and at 22-26°C. Gentle filtration is recommended. Provide a varied diet of live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms). Plant the aquarium densely with mosses and roots. Avoid aggressive or overly active tankmates. A pair or small group is ideal. Perform 20% weekly water changes.

##### [Scheel's Killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-scheeli)
**Fundulopanchax scheeli** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Scheel's Killifish is an elegant fish with metallic sheen, appreciated for its ease of breeding. It inhabits soft, acidic waters of West African forests.
Fundulopanchax scheeli reaches 5-6 cm. Males have an iridescent blue-green body with red spots on the flanks. Fins are edged in yellow. Females are light brown. This killifish is active and curious, yet peaceful. It prefers calm, shaded areas. In the aquarium it breeds readily on peat substrate. It can be kept as a pair or in a small group.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.2, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 40 L tank with a lid is required. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 5-15, KH 2-8), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.2) and at 22-26°C. Gentle filtration and dense vegetation are recommended. Feed live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms). Avoid overly active fish. Perform 20% weekly water changes. Breeding is facilitated by a peat substrate.

##### [Sjöstedt's killifish](/encyclopedia/fundulopanchax-sjoestedti)
**Fundulopanchax sjoestedti** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
A large, peaceful killifish with subtle colors, suitable for community tanks. It enjoys soft, slightly acidic water.
Fundulopanchax sjoestedti can reach 10 cm, making it one of the largest killifish. Its body is elongated and robust, with a long dorsal fin. Males are blue-green with red spots, females are brown-yellow. It has a terminal mouth and large eyes. It is a calm fish that swims throughout the water column. It is less territorial than Nothobranchius. Its peculiarity is that it can live several years in an aquarium. It reproduces by laying eggs on plants or moss.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15, KH 1–8. A 60-liter tank minimum is recommended for a group. Accepts dry foods but prefers live or frozen prey. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. A lid is necessary as it may jump. Plant densely and leave open areas. Filtration should be moderate. Breeding is easy: eggs hatch in 10–14 days without diapause.

##### [African filter shrimp](/encyclopedia/atya-gabonensis)
**Atya gabonensis** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Large African filter-feeding shrimp, peaceful, with fan-like legs, requires good current.
Atya gabonensis is a large filter-feeding shrimp, reaching up to 12 cm. It has long fan-like front legs to filter water. Its color is usually brown-grey with bluish hues. It is very peaceful and can coexist with non-aggressive fish. It spends time positioning itself in the current to feed. Growth is slow. It molts regularly.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10, KH 3-8. Moderate to strong current essential. Feed with micro-particles, powdered food. Minimum tank 100L. Group of 2+ possible. Compatible with peaceful fish. Sensitive to high nitrates. Avoid territorial fish.

##### [Turret nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-turrita)
**Neritina turrita** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail with an elongated turret-shaped shell, effective algae eater.
Neritina turrita is a freshwater snail from West Africa. Its shell is conical and elongated, dark brown with lighter bands. It grows to about 1.5-2.5 cm. It is an excellent algae grazer, especially on glass and decorations. It is hardy and easy to keep. Like other nerites, its eggs only develop in brackish water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 2.5cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Freshwater: temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 6-12, KH 4-8. Nitrates <30 ppm. Diet: algae, supplement with blanched vegetables. Avoid copper. Shell is robust but can break if dropped.

##### [Afzelius anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-afzelii)
**Anubias afzelii** — Araceae · plant
Anubias afzelii is a robust plant with large dark green leaves, perfect for freshwater aquariums.
Anubias afzelii is an aquatic plant in the family Araceae, native to West Africa. It has thick, leathery leaves that can reach 30 cm in length. It is an epiphyte that attaches to rocks or driftwood. It grows slowly and does not require rich substrate. Ideal for low-tech aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 3-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Place in shade or moderate light. Do not bury the rhizome. Temperature 22-28°C. Soft to hard water, pH 6-8. Occasional liquid fertilization. Avoid algae by limiting light.

##### [Anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-barteri)
**Anubias barteri** — Araceae · plant
Anubias barteri is a robust and easy aquarium plant, ideal for beginners.
This plant has thick, leathery leaves of oval to lanceolate shape, dark green. It can reach 20-30 cm in height. It grows slowly and should not be planted in the substrate but attached to decor. It produces rhizomes that can be divided. It sometimes flowers above water with a white spathe.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Anubias barteri is very easy to maintain. It accepts a wide range of parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. It prefers low to medium light. Too much light can promote algae on leaves. It does not need CO2 or rich fertilizers. Avoid burying the rhizome. It can be attached to a root or rock with fishing line. It is compatible with most fish.

##### [Anubias Coffee](/encyclopedia/anubias-barteri-var-coffeifolia)
**Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia** — Araceae · plant
Hardy epiphyte with dark green leaves resembling coffee. Ideal for low-light aquariums.
Creeping rhizome producing thick, leathery leaves, dark green to brownish. Leaves are slightly wavy and up to 15 cm long. Very slow growth. Must not be planted in the substrate (risk of rhizome rot). Attaches to wood or rocks. Rarely flowers in aquariums (white spathe). Highly resistant to diseases and herbivores.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-10, KH 2-8. Low to moderate light (0.5 W/L). CO2 not required. Occasional liquid fertilizer. Nitrates max 20 mg/L, phosphates max 2 mg/L. Minimum tank volume 20 liters. Propagation by rhizome division. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Tolerates a wide range of parameters.

##### [Anubias nana](/encyclopedia/anubias-barteri-var-nana)
**Anubias barteri var. nana** — Araceae · plant
Small robust plant ideal for planted aquariums, slow growth, low light requirements.
Anubias nana is a small epiphytic plant reaching 10 to 15 cm in height. Its leaves are oval, dark glossy green, and its creeping rhizome allows attachment to rocks or driftwood. It rarely flowers underwater but produces a typical white Araceae inflorescence. Growth is very slow, making it an easy-care plant. It is resistant to herbivores such as catfish and cichlids. It is one of the most popular species in the aquarium hobby.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 12cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Undemanding plant, tolerates a wide range of parameters. Ideal temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Low to moderate light; too much light encourages algae on leaves. Do not bury the rhizome, attach it to a hard surface. CO2 fertilization not required but beneficial. Slow growth, rarely needs trimming. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Minimum tank size 10 liters.

##### [Giant Anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-gigantea)
**Anubias gigantea** — Araceae · plant
Large Anubias species with imposing leaves, ideal for large aquariums and paludariums.
Giant Anubias is the largest species of the genus, with leaves up to 40 cm long and 20 cm wide. The rhizome is very thick and can exceed 1 meter. Leaves are oval, leathery, dark glossy green. When emersed, it produces a large white inflorescence. Growth is slow but steady. It requires significant space and is perfect as a background or centerpiece plant. It is very hardy and can be kept in paludarium conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires a large aquarium (minimum 100 liters) due to its size. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Low to moderate light; too much light may encourage algae. Firmly attach rhizome to a large rock or root. CO2 fertilization not needed. Occasional root or liquid fertilizer. Trim old leaves if necessary. Compatible with large peaceful fish.

##### [Gracile Anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-gracilis)
**Anubias gracilis** — Araceae · plant
Anubias with narrow, elongated leaves, moderate growth, suitable for medium-sized aquariums.
Gracile Anubias is characterized by its lanceolate leaves, light to medium green, 15-25 cm long. The rhizome is thin and creeping, producing many roots. Leaves are thinner than other Anubias, giving an elegant appearance. It can reach 30 cm in height. Growth is slightly faster than Anubias nana. It flowers easily when emersed with a white spathe. It is a versatile plant for midground or background.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Standard parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Low to moderate light. Attach rhizome to a hard surface. Tolerates light fertilization. CO2 optional. Trim old leaves to stimulate growth. Compatible with most fish. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Watch for algae on leaves if light is too strong.

##### [Hastifolia anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-hastifolia)
**Anubias hastifolia** — Araceae · plant
Anubias hastifolia is distinguished by its arrow-shaped, light green leaves and slow growth.
Anubias hastifolia is an epiphytic aquatic plant in the family Araceae. Its leaves are hastate (spear-shaped) and up to 20 cm long. It is native to Central Africa. Like other Anubias, it prefers low to moderate light and no substrate needed. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Attach to a root or rock. Low light. Temperature 22-28°C. Soft to hard water, pH 6-7.5. Slow growth, do not bury rhizome. CO2 fertilization not necessary.

##### [Mini Anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-minima)
**Anubias minima** — Araceae · plant
Very small Anubias species, perfect for nano aquariums and foregrounds.
Anubias minima is a dwarf species with oval leaves 2-5 cm, dark green. The rhizome is very thin and short, forming dense clumps. It usually does not exceed 5-8 cm in height. Growth is extremely slow. It produces small white flowers when emersed. Ideal for small aquariums, it can be used as foreground or attached to small stones. It is very hardy and tolerates varied conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 5L, Size 6cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters identical to other Anubias: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Low to moderate light. Attach to a small rock or root. Do not bury rhizome. Light fertilization. CO2 not needed. Rarely needs trimming. Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Minimum tank size 5 liters. Watch for algae if light is too intense.

##### [Dwarf anubias](/encyclopedia/anubias-nana)
**Anubias nana** — Araceae · plant
Dwarf anubias is a very popular small aquarium plant for nano tanks.
This plant is a miniature version of Anubias barteri, with smaller leaves (2-5 cm) and very slow growth. It reaches 5-10 cm in height. It is ideal for foreground. It shares the same characteristics: leathery leaves, creeping rhizome, low light requirement.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Care is identical to Anubias barteri. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. Low to medium light. Do not bury the rhizome. It can be attached to small stones or roots. Perfect for nano tanks. No CO2 needed. Watch for algae if light is too strong.

##### [Asplenium fern](/encyclopedia/bolbitis-asplenioides)
**Bolbitis asplenioides** — Dryopteridaceae · plant
An elegant fern with finely divided fronds, perfect for planted aquariums.
Bolbitis asplenioides is an epiphytic fern from West Africa. Its light green, highly divided fronds can reach 25 cm. It grows slowly and prefers moderate light. Ideal for creating a natural look on wood or rocks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Do not bury the rhizome. Moderate light. CO2 recommended for better growth. Soft to slightly acidic water.

##### [African water fern](/encyclopedia/bolbitis-heudelotii)
**Bolbitis heudelotii** — Dryopteridaceae · plant
African water fern is a demanding plant that requires good current and water quality.
This fern has light green, finely divided leaves, giving a feathery appearance. It can reach 30-40 cm. It grows from a creeping rhizome. It is more delicate than Java fern. It requires moderate to strong current to prevent algae. Ideal for river-type aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 35cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
More demanding than Java fern. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, low hardness. Moderate light. Good current is essential. It appreciates CO2 and liquid fertilizers. Attach rhizome to rock or wood. Avoid planting in substrate. Can be challenging for beginners.

##### [Crinum calamistratum](/encyclopedia/crinum-calamistratum)
**Crinum calamistratum** — Amaryllidaceae · plant
Crinum calamistratum is a bulbous plant with long wavy leaves, very hardy and suitable for large aquariums.
Crinum calamistratum has a large elongated bulb (up to 10 cm) from which ribbon-like, wavy, dark green leaves emerge, reaching 60 cm in length and 2-3 cm wide. The leaves are thick and leathery. The plant does not produce an emergent stem in aquariums, but can flower under optimal conditions with a scape bearing fragrant white flowers. It grows slowly but is very robust. It tolerates a wide range of parameters. Propagation is by division of bulbils.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy plant, ideal for beginners. Temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 2-20, KH 2-15. Low to moderate lighting. CO₂ not needed. Minimum tank volume 60 liters, but prefers large tanks (100 L+) for its long leaves. Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Slow growth, does not require frequent trimming. Compatible with most fish. Propagation by separating bulbils. Be careful not to bury the bulb completely, the neck must remain visible.

##### [Crinum natans](/encyclopedia/crinum-natans)
**Crinum natans** — Amaryllidaceae · plant
Aquatic bulb plant with long, dark green ribbon-like leaves, ideal for background in aquariums.
Crinum natans is an aquatic bulb plant from West Africa. Its leaves can reach 1.5 meters in length, wavy and dark green. The bulb should be partially buried in the substrate. It produces white lily-like flowers when emergent. Growth is slow to moderate. It prefers soft to moderately hard water. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate various conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 150cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 2-8. Moderate to high lighting. CO2 recommended for better growth. Nutrient-rich substrate. Minimum tank size 100L. Background or solitary specimen. Propagation by bulb division. Compatible with most peaceful fish.

##### [Tiger lotus](/encyclopedia/nymphaea-lotus)
**Nymphaea lotus** — Nymphaeaceae · plant
Tiger-striped floating leaf water lily, very decorative, requires a large aquarium.
Nymphaea lotus is a tropical bulbous water lily. Its submerged leaves are green with purple spots, while floating leaves are green. White or pink flowers open at night. In the aquarium, it develops long stems and large leaves. It requires strong light and rich substrate. Growth is fast with CO2 supplementation. It can cover the surface, providing shade. Ideal as a background or centerpiece plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Medium difficulty. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5. Strong light (0.5-1 W/L). CO2 recommended for optimal growth. Nutrient-rich substrate (aquasoil). Soft to moderately hard water. Trim floating leaves to control shading. Liquid and root fertilization. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid digging fish. Propagation by bulb division.

### Australia

##### [Spotted archerfish](/encyclopedia/toxotes-chatareus)
**Toxotes chatareus** · fish
The spotted archerfish shares the spectacular hunting technique of the genus Toxotes but is distinguished by a stockier body dotted with dark spots.
Toxotes chatareus reaches 25-40 cm, larger than T. jaculatrix. Its body is stocky, laterally compressed, silver in color with irregular black spots on the flanks. It has the same water-jet hunting technique as its cousin. It lives in groups in South Asian estuaries.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 40cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 500 L tank for an adult. Same parameters as T. jaculatrix. Salinity 1.005-1.015, temperature 25-30°C, pH 7.0-8.0. Strong filtration. Carnivorous diet: live insects, shrimp, fish meat.

##### [Banded archerfish](/encyclopedia/toxotes-jaculatrix)
**Toxotes jaculatrix** · fish
The archerfish is famous for its hunting technique: it shoots a precise water jet at insects perched on vegetation to knock them down.
Toxotes jaculatrix reaches 20-30 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, silver to greenish with characteristic black vertical bands on the back. It has a large mouth pointing upward. It lives in small groups in estuaries and hunts at the surface. It can spit a water jet up to 2 meters to capture prey.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20, Salinity 1.005-1.015
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 400 L tank for a group, with a large open water surface. Salinity 1.005-1.015. Temperature 25-30°C, pH 7.0-8.0. It is a hunter that prefers live food (insects, small fish). Also accepts shrimp meat, meaty pellets.

##### [Red Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/glossolepis-incisus)
**Glossolepis incisus** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Rainbowfish with bright red body in males, very popular in aquariums. Peaceful and active.
Glossolepis incisus can reach up to 15 cm. Adult males are intense red with silvery reflections, while females are gray-silver. The body is deep and laterally compressed. This species is schooling and requires a large swimming space. It is very active and may jump, so a lid is important. Its reproduction is typical of rainbowfish, spawning on plants. It lives about 6-8 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15. Minimum 200 liters for a group of 6. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, worms, brine shrimp. Weekly 20-30% water changes. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Provide a long tank (120 cm) for swimming. Decorate with robust plants and rocks. Avoid territorial species. Strong filtration is recommended.

##### [Wanam Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/glossolepis-wanamensis)
**Glossolepis wanamensis** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Rare and endangered rainbowfish, endemic to Lake Wanam. Highly prized by aquarists for its beauty.
Glossolepis wanamensis reaches about 10 cm. Males are colored red, orange, and blue, with a dark lateral band. Females are silvery. This species is schooling and lives near the surface. It is threatened by introduced exotic species in its native lake. In the aquarium, it is sensitive to water quality. Its reproduction is similar to other rainbowfish, spawning on fine plants.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12. Minimum 150 liters for a group of 6. Varied diet: small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Frequent water changes (20% twice weekly) to maintain very clean water. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly active species. Decorate with fine plants and shaded areas. This species is more delicate than other rainbowfish, requiring stable water conditions.

##### [Parkinson's Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-parkinsoni)
**Melanotaenia parkinsoni** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Elegant rainbowfish with bluish iridescence, highly valued in aquariums. Hardy and easy to keep.
Melanotaenia parkinsoni reaches up to 10 cm. Its body is silvery with blue and green iridescence, and a dark horizontal stripe. Males are more colorful than females. This species is very active and lives in schools. It is known for its fast swimming and curious behavior. In the aquarium, it explores all levels. Its reproduction is typical of rainbowfish: spawning on fine plants.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15. Minimum 100 liters for a group of 6. Omnivorous diet: flakes, small pellets, live or frozen foods. Weekly 20% water changes. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Provide planted decor with swimming spaces. Avoid aggressive tankmates. This species is sensitive to water quality; efficient filtration is required.

##### [Eastern Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-splendida)
**Melanotaenia splendida** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Colorful and peaceful rainbowfish, ideal for community aquariums. Known for its iridescent sheen.
Melanotaenia splendida has an elongated, laterally compressed body with well-developed fins. Males display bright colors ranging from blue to red, while females are duller. This species can reach 12 cm in length. It is very active and swims in schools. Its schooling behavior makes it an excellent community fish. It is also known for its ability to adapt to various water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature between 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, and GH 5-15. A minimum tank of 120 liters is recommended for a group of 6. Feed a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are essential. This species is peaceful and compatible with other non-aggressive fish. Avoid strong currents. A planted setup with open swimming areas is ideal.

##### [Banded Rainbowfish](/encyclopedia/melanotaenia-trifasciata)
**Melanotaenia trifasciata** — Melanotaeniidae · fish
Rainbowfish recognizable by its three dark bands, very colorful and active. Ideal for community tanks.
Melanotaenia trifasciata reaches 12 cm. Its body is silvery with three longitudinal black bands, and red, yellow, and blue iridescence in males. Females are duller. It is a schooling fish that swims in groups. Very active, it occupies the middle water column. Breeding is easy, with spawning on plants. It can live 5-7 years in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15. Minimum 120 liters for 6 fish. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Regular water changes. Compatible with other peaceful fish. Provide a planted tank with open areas. Avoid overly active or aggressive species. Moderate filtration is sufficient. This species is hardy but sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Two-stamen glossostigma](/encyclopedia/glossostigma-diandrum)
**Glossostigma diandrum** — Phrymaceae · plant
Similar to dwarf glossostigma but with slightly larger leaves. Ideal for high-tech aquariums.
Glossostigma diandrum resembles G. elatinoides but its leaves are slightly wider (up to 2 cm) and darker green. Stolons are sturdier and the carpet is less dense. It tolerates slightly lower light than its cousin. Emersed, it produces white flowers with two stamens (hence the name). Growth is fast with CO₂. It is a bit less demanding than G. elatinoides but still an intermediate to advanced plant.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 4cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to high light (0.5-0.8 W/L) recommended. CO₂ beneficial (15-25 mg/L) for optimal growth. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12°dGH, KH 1-6°dKH. Less sensitive to parameters than G. elatinoides. Plant small groups 2-3 cm apart. Regular trimming to keep carpet low. Balanced fertilization (NPK + trace elements). Compatible with most peaceful fish. Propagate by dividing stolons.

##### [Dwarf glossostigma](/encyclopedia/glossostigma-elatinoides)
**Glossostigma elatinoides** — Phrymaceae · plant
Very popular carpeting plant for aquascaping. Requires high light and CO₂ to form a dense mat.
Glossostigma elatinoides is a small creeping plant with bright green oval leaves 0.5-1.5 cm. It grows on stolons and forms a very low carpet (1-2 cm) under high light. Leaves are opposite and slightly fleshy. Under ideal conditions, it quickly covers the ground. It flowers emersed with small white flowers. A demanding plant that needs soft, acidic water. Often used in Dutch or natural style aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires intense light (0.7-1 W/L) and CO₂ injection (20-30 mg/L) for a dense carpet. Temperature 20-26°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-8°dGH, KH 0-4°dKH. Prefers soft, acidic water. Plant small clumps 1-2 cm apart. Trim regularly to 1-2 cm to maintain carpet. Sensitive to iron and potassium deficiencies. Avoid fish that uproot plants. Propagate by dividing stolons.

##### [Glossostigma](/encyclopedia/glossostigma-elmanianum)
**Glossostigma elmanianum** — Phrymaceae · plant
Glossostigma is a foreground plant widely used to create a dense, low carpet in aquariums.
This plant has small oval light green leaves (5-10 mm) on creeping stems. It grows quickly and forms a dense carpet if light is high and CO2 present. It is similar to Hemianthus callitrichoides but with slightly larger leaves. Very popular in aquascaping.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Demanding. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, low hardness. High light (1W/L or more). CO2 essential. Nutrient-rich substrate and liquid fertilizers. Regular trimming to prevent it from growing tall. Sensitive to algae. Suitable for experienced aquarists.

##### [Crenate water clover](/encyclopedia/marsilea-crenata)
**Marsilea crenata** — Marsileaceae · plant
Carpeting plant with clover-like leaves, ideal for aquarium foreground. Forms a dense mat under moderate light.
Marsilea crenata is a creeping aquatic fern with bright green four-leaf clover-like leaves. Each leaf is 0.5–2 cm in diameter, borne on thin stolons. Underwater, leaves stay small and close to the substrate. It can also grow emersed, producing larger leaves. Growth is moderate and it adapts to a wide range of parameters. It does not require added CO₂ but benefits from it. A hardy, low-maintenance plant ideal for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy plant, tolerates low to moderate light (0.3-0.5 W/L). Stronger light promotes denser carpet. Ideal temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15°dGH, KH 1-8°dKH. No strict CO₂ requirement, but 10-20 mg/L injection improves growth. Plant small clumps 2-3 cm apart. Regular trimming keeps carpet low. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid burrowing species. Propagate by cutting stolons.

##### [Dwarf water clover](/encyclopedia/marsilea-minuta)
**Marsilea minuta** — Marsileaceae · plant
The smallest Marsilea, perfect for nano tanks. Forms a very fine and delicate carpet.
Marsilea minuta is a dwarf fern with leaves only 0.3-1 cm in diameter. Leaflets are rounded and light green. It grows on very thin stolons, creating a low, dense carpet. Under optimal conditions (high light and CO₂), it stays very short (1-2 cm). It can also grow emersed with slightly larger leaves. Growth is slow without CO₂. Demanding in light to maintain its dwarf form.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.2, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 15L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires moderate to high light (0.5-0.8 W/L) to stay dwarf. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.2, GH 2-10°dGH, KH 1-5°dKH. CO₂ recommended (15-25 mg/L) for compact growth. Plant small pieces 1-2 cm apart. Frequent trimming to prevent it from growing tall. Prone to algae if light is too strong without CO₂. Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Propagate by dividing stolons.

##### [Dwarf vallisneria](/encyclopedia/vallisneria-nana)
**Vallisneria nana** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Small Vallisneria with short, fine leaves, perfect for small tanks or foreground. Fast and easy growth.
Vallisneria nana is a compact aquatic plant with light green leaves 20-40 cm long, narrower than Vallisneria americana. It quickly forms a dense carpet via stolons. Ideal for nano tanks, it requires moderate lighting and a nutrient-rich substrate. Tolerates tropical temperatures.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8. Moderate lighting (0.3-0.5 W/L). Enriched substrate. Fast growth, trim if needed. Propagation via stolons.

##### [Lord Howe acanthastrea](/encyclopedia/acanthastrea-lordhowensis)
**Acanthastrea lordhowensis** — Lobophylliidae · coral
LPS coral with fleshy, colorful polyps, highly prized for its bright hues and dome-shaped growth.
Acanthastrea lordhowensis forms massive or encrusting colonies, with large polyps and well-developed septa. Colors include red, orange, green, and purple. It is moderately aggressive and may extend stinging tentacles at night. Requires clean water and moderate lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Provide enough space between colonies to avoid stings. Feed with meaty foods like mysis or plankton. Moderate flow is ideal. Avoid high nitrates.

##### [Tomato clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-frenatus)
**Amphiprion frenatus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Bright red clownfish with a single white vertical band behind the eye. Popular in marine aquariums.
The tomato clownfish reaches 14 cm. Its body is bright orange-red, with a single white vertical band just behind the eye. The fins are orange. The female is larger than the male. It is territorial but less aggressive than other clownfish. It can be kept in pairs or groups with a hierarchy. It is hardy and adapts well to captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 120L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 120 liters. Omnivorous: brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid very aggressive fish. An anemone is not essential but appreciated. Captive breeding possible.

##### [Ocellaris clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-ocellaris)
**Amphiprion ocellaris** — Pomacentridae · fish
A small orange and white marine fish, famous for its association with anemones. Very popular and easy to keep.
The ocellaris clownfish has a bright orange body with three vertical white bands edged in black. The dorsal fin is tall and rounded. It reaches up to 8 cm. It is a protandrous hermaphrodite: all juveniles are male, the dominant one becomes female. It lives in a hierarchical group with a dominant female. In the aquarium, it often accepts artificial anemones. It is very hardy and adapts well to captivity. It can be aggressive towards intruders in its territory.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 80 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Omnivorous, feed with pellets, brine shrimp, and algae. It is recommended to keep it as a pair or in a small group. An anemone is not mandatory but appreciated. Avoid aggressive fish. Regular water changes are important. It is sensitive to high nitrate levels.

### Seagrass beds

##### [Shoal grass](/encyclopedia/halodule-wrightii)
**Halodule wrightii** — Cymodoceaceae · plant
Seagrass tolerant of variable salinity, ideal for brackish tanks.
Seagrass with fine ribbon-like leaves, forming underwater meadows. Tolerates a wide salinity range.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, Salinity 1.005-1.02
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, sandy substrate, brackish water. Slow growth.

##### [Mandarinfish](/encyclopedia/synchiropus-splendidus)
**Synchiropus splendidus** — Callionymidae · fish
The mandarinfish is a small, brightly colored reef fish highly prized in aquariums but difficult to keep.
The mandarinfish grows up to 6 cm. Its body is elongated and covered with wavy blue, orange, and green patterns. Males have a greatly elongated first dorsal fin. It moves by crawling on the substrate in search of small crustaceans. It is shy and spends most of its time hidden. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced: males have a longer dorsal spine and brighter colors.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is required, with mature water and an abundant copepod population. Water parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. The decor should include plenty of live rock and hiding places. Diet consists exclusively of live prey such as copepods and amphipods. It is compatible with peaceful fish but may be aggressive towards conspecifics. Warning: do not introduce into a new tank or with fish that compete for food.

##### [Yellow tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-flavescens)
**Zebrasoma flavescens** — Acanthuridae · fish
An iconic reef fish with a bright yellow body and high dorsal fin. Very popular in reef aquariums.
The yellow tang has a laterally compressed oval body, entirely bright yellow. Its dorsal fin is tall and continuous, and its tail is white. It has a sharp spine on each side of the caudal peduncle, used for defense. Juveniles are often solitary, while adults form groups. It is an essential algae grazer for reef balance. In the aquarium, it swims actively and needs plenty of space. It can become territorial towards other surgeonfish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 300 L with stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Moderate lighting and good water flow are necessary. It is herbivorous: feed with dried algae (nori), blanched vegetables, and spirulina-enriched foods. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes and a protein skimmer are recommended. Keep nitrates below 5 mg/L and phosphates below 0.05 mg/L.

##### [Ocellaris clownfish](/encyclopedia/amphiprion-ocellaris)
**Amphiprion ocellaris** — Pomacentridae · fish
A small orange and white marine fish, famous for its association with anemones. Very popular and easy to keep.
The ocellaris clownfish has a bright orange body with three vertical white bands edged in black. The dorsal fin is tall and rounded. It reaches up to 8 cm. It is a protandrous hermaphrodite: all juveniles are male, the dominant one becomes female. It lives in a hierarchical group with a dominant female. In the aquarium, it often accepts artificial anemones. It is very hardy and adapts well to captivity. It can be aggressive towards intruders in its territory.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 80 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Omnivorous, feed with pellets, brine shrimp, and algae. It is recommended to keep it as a pair or in a small group. An anemone is not mandatory but appreciated. Avoid aggressive fish. Regular water changes are important. It is sensitive to high nitrate levels.

##### [Cleaner shrimp](/encyclopedia/lysmata-amboinensis)
**Lysmata amboinensis** — Hippolytidae · invertebrate
The cleaner shrimp is a popular marine invertebrate that cleans fish of parasites.
The cleaner shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) is a marine shrimp species of the family Hippolytidae. It is recognizable by its bright red coloration with a white longitudinal stripe on the back and white antennae. Highly valued in reef aquariums, it establishes cleaning stations where it removes parasites and dead tissue from fish. Its active behavior and coloration make it an aesthetic and useful addition.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain water quality with salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 24-28°C, and nitrates below 20 ppm. Provide hiding places and a varied diet (brine shrimp, mysis, invertebrate food). Avoid aggressive fish.

##### [Killer algae](/encyclopedia/caulerpa-taxifolia)
**Caulerpa taxifolia** — Caulerpaceae · plant
Fast-growing green macroalgae, decorative but invasive.
Green alga with yew-like fronds, can form vast mats. Very fast growth, needs regular trimming.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Medium to strong light, stable water. Keep in a dedicated tank or refugium as it is very invasive.

##### [Spaghetti algae](/encyclopedia/chaetomorpha-linum)
**Chaetomorpha linum** — Cladophoraceae · plant
Filamentous alga ideal for refugiums and nitrate absorption.
Green filamentous alga in dense tufts, very effective at absorbing nitrates and phosphates. Fast growth.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, nutrient-rich water. Ideal in a refugium for nutrient export.

##### [Red ogo](/encyclopedia/gracilaria-parvispora)
**Gracilaria parvispora** — Gracilariaceae · plant
Branched red alga, excellent for refugiums and feeding.
Finely branched red alga, much appreciated by herbivorous fish and invertebrates. Fast growth.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.026
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate light, nutrient-rich water. Ideal in a refugium.

##### [Sea lettuce](/encyclopedia/ulva-lactuca)
**Ulva lactuca** — Ulvaceae · plant
Leafy green alga, much appreciated by herbivorous fish.
Green alga in thin translucent leaves. Food source for herbivorous fish and invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 8-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.026
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to strong light, nutrient-rich water. Fast growth, trim regularly.

### Europe

##### [Glasswort](/encyclopedia/salicornia-europaea)
**Salicornia europaea** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Halophytic succulent of estuary salt marshes, with green jointed stems.
Annual succulent with fleshy jointed stems, light green to reddish. Colonizes estuarine salt flats.
Parameters: Temperature 12-28°C, pH 7-8.5, Salinity 1.01-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Strong light, emerged zone flooded by brackish water (salinity 1.010-1.025). Salty muddy substrate. Tolerates partial immersion.

##### [Ramshorn snail](/encyclopedia/planorbarius-corneus)
**Planorbarius corneus** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
A small freshwater snail with a flat spiral shell, very common in the aquarium hobby. It is valued as a cleaner and for its ease of breeding.
The ramshorn snail has a reddish-brown discoid shell coiled in a single plane, reaching up to 3 cm in diameter. Its body is dark brown with fine, triangular tentacles. It breathes using a lung sac, allowing it to survive in oxygen-poor waters. It is a hermaphroditic mollusk capable of self-fertilization. It moves slowly across surfaces, scraping algae and detritus. In an aquarium, it can multiply quickly if food is abundant. Its shell is fragile and may break if handled roughly.
Parameters: Temperature 18-25°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
The ramshorn snail is very easy to keep in a freshwater aquarium. A temperature between 18 and 25 °C and a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (7.0–8.0) are suitable. It tolerates a wide range of hardness. No special lighting is required. It feeds on algae, leftover food, and decaying plant matter. Avoid copper-based medications, which are toxic to invertebrates. It can be kept alone or in groups, and cohabits peacefully with most fish. Be careful not to overfeed to avoid a population explosion.

##### [Keeled Ramshorn Snail](/encyclopedia/planorbis-carinatus)
**Planorbis carinatus** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
The Keeled Ramshorn Snail is distinguished by a keel (ridge) on the edge of its shell. It is slightly larger than other Ramshorns and very hardy.
The shell of the Keeled Ramshorn Snail measures 3-4 cm in diameter and has a prominent keel on the outer edge. Its color ranges from light brown to dark brown. It is hermaphroditic and reproduces quickly. It feeds on algae, decaying plants, and leftover food. Active at night, it can be seen crawling on glass and plants. It is very tolerant of parameter variations.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 15L, Size 3.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 18-26°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. Minimum tank 15 liters. Diet: algae, vegetables, pellets. Peaceful, compatible with most fish. Avoid predators. Rapid reproduction if excess food. Substrate not required. Can be kept outdoors in a pond.

##### [Great ramshorn snail](/encyclopedia/planorbis-corneus)
**Planorbis corneus** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
The great ramshorn snail is a large freshwater snail with a spiral shell, often used in aquariums to clean debris.
Planorbis corneus has a discoid shell of 2-3 cm diameter, brown-red to black. The body is dark brown. It moves slowly on surfaces and in vegetation. It feeds on detritus, algae, and dead plants. It is hermaphroditic and reproduces easily in freshwater, laying gelatinous egg masses. It can become invasive if food is abundant. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 18-25°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 18-25°C, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Tolerates a wide range but prefers hard water. Nitrates max 40 ppm, phosphates max 2 ppm. Diet: detritus, algae, wafers, vegetables. Can be kept in groups. Beware of overpopulation. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid snail-eating fish. Can be used in outdoor ponds. Easy reproduction, control food.

##### [Common ramshorn](/encyclopedia/planorbis-planorbis)
**Planorbis planorbis** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail with a flat spiral shell, common in coldwater or temperate aquariums.
Planorbis planorbis is a freshwater snail of the family Planorbidae. Its shell is discoid, coiled in a plane, brown-red to dark brown. It grows to about 1-2 cm in diameter. It feeds on algae, plant debris, and leftover food. It is very hardy and can live in low-oxygen waters thanks to its hemoglobin. It is often used as a cleaner in coldwater aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 10-25°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 5L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Freshwater: temperature 10-25°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. Nitrates <40 ppm. Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, fish tablets. Avoid overpopulation as they reproduce quickly.

##### [Needle spikerush](/encyclopedia/eleocharis-acicularis)
**Eleocharis acicularis** — Cyperaceae · plant
Needle spikerush is a foreground plant larger than dwarf hairgrass, forming fine grass clumps.
This plant has taller stems (10-20 cm) and finer than Eleocharis parvula. It forms dense clumps. It grows quickly and can be used as midground. It is very hardy and tolerates a wide range of conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy. Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. Moderate light. CO2 optional. Nutrient-rich substrate helps. Regular trimming to control height. Can be used as background if allowed to grow. Resistant to algae.

##### [Dwarf hairgrass](/encyclopedia/eleocharis-parvula)
**Eleocharis parvula** — Cyperaceae · plant
Dwarf hairgrass is a foreground plant that forms a fine grass carpet, ideal for natural aquariums.
This plant looks like fine grass, with light green stems 5-10 cm tall. It spreads via underground stolons. It grows moderately fast. It requires moderate to high light. Can be used as foreground or midground. It is easier than Hemianthus.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy to moderate. Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. Moderate to high light. CO2 recommended for dense growth but not mandatory. Nutrient-rich substrate helps. Regular trimming to keep low carpet. Can be planted in small clumps. Compatible with most fish.

##### [Four-leaf water clover](/encyclopedia/marsilea-quadrifolia)
**Marsilea quadrifolia** — Marsileaceae · plant
Aquatic fern with four leaflets, forming a dense carpet. Very hardy and adaptable, suitable for low-light tanks.
Marsilea quadrifolia has floating or emergent leaves with four clover-like leaflets. Underwater, leaves stay small (1-3 cm) and creeping. Stolons spread quickly to colonize the substrate. It can survive in very varied conditions, including low light. Growth is slower without CO₂. It produces sporocarps under stress. An ideal plant for low-tech aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 3-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy, tolerates low to moderate light (0.2-0.4 W/L). Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 3-20°dGH, KH 2-12°dKH. No CO₂ needed, but light injection (10-15 mg/L) speeds growth. Plant in clumps 3-4 cm apart. Occasional trimming to prevent shading. Compatible with all fish. Propagate by dividing stolons. Watch for snails that may damage young shoots.

##### [Creeping feather moss](/encyclopedia/amblystegium-serpens)
**Amblystegium serpens** — Hypnaceae · plant
Creeping aquatic moss forming a dense carpet, ideal for natural aquariums.
Amblystegium serpens is a slow-growing aquatic moss forming dense, low carpets. Its fine, branched stems bear small, oval bright green leaves. It attaches easily to rocks and driftwood, creating a natural look. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate light and does not require CO2. Growth is faster in cooler water. It provides excellent shelter for shrimp and fry. Its fine texture contrasts well with larger plants.
Parameters: Temperature 15-25°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 10L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This moss is easy to maintain. Ideal temperature 15-25°C, pH 6-7.5. Low to moderate light is sufficient. No CO2 needed, but light liquid fertilization promotes growth. It tolerates soft to moderately hard water. Avoid strong currents. Trim regularly to prevent matting. Compatible with most peaceful fish and shrimp. Can be used as foreground or on hardscape.

##### [Fontinalis moss](/encyclopedia/fissidens-fontanus)
**Fissidens fontanus** — Fissidentaceae · plant
Aquatic moss forming dense cushions, very decorative and easy to attach.
Fissidens fontanus is a slow-growing aquatic moss with small leaves arranged in two rows. It forms compact dark green cushions. Its stems are branched and attach to hard surfaces. It prefers cool, well-oxygenated water. In the aquarium, it needs moderate light and gentle flow. No CO2 required but appreciates light fertilization. Ideal for natural aquariums and shrimp tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 15-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 10L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Keep temperature 15-26°C, pH 6-7.5. Moderate light, avoid intense direct light. No CO2 needed, but liquid NPK fertilization promotes growth. Soft to moderately hard water. Gentle flow is beneficial. Trim yellowed parts. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp. Can be tied to rock or wood with fishing line.

##### [Willow Moss](/encyclopedia/fontinalis-antipyretica)
**Fontinalis antipyretica** — Fontinalaceae · plant
Robust aquatic moss from cold waters, forming long leafy stems. Ideal for coldwater or temperate tanks.
Willow moss is a robust aquatic moss from cold, flowing waters. Its stems are erect or drooping, covered with dark green lanceolate leaves. It forms dense clumps and can reach 30 cm in length. It prefers cool, well-oxygenated water. In the aquarium, it is ideal for coldwater or temperate tanks. It provides an excellent spawning substrate for fish. Its growth is moderate to fast depending on conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 15-24°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Willow moss requires cool water between 15 and 24°C and good water flow. Moderate lighting is sufficient, but it tolerates stronger light. CO2 is not necessary. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5-7.5) and medium hardness are suitable. It can be attached to rocks or left floating. Regular trimming prevents it from becoming too invasive. It is sensitive to high temperatures and organic pollution.

##### [Hypnoid Willow Moss](/encyclopedia/fontinalis-hypnoides)
**Fontinalis hypnoides** — Fontinalaceae · plant
Aquatic moss similar to willow moss, but preferring calm waters. Forms dense green mats.
Hypnoid willow moss is an aquatic moss with creeping or ascending stems, densely leafy. Its leaves are oval-lanceolate, medium green. It forms dense mats on hard substrates. Unlike Fontinalis antipyretica, it tolerates calm, less oxygenated waters better. Its growth is moderate. It is often used in coldwater or temperate aquariums. It provides good shelter for small fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 15-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 15L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This moss prefers cool water (15-24°C) but tolerates higher temperatures up to 26°C. Low to moderate lighting is suitable. CO2 is not needed. A pH of 6 to 7.5 and low to medium hardness are ideal. It attaches easily to decorations. Regular trimming keeps it compact. It can be grown floating. Avoid excess nutrients to limit algae.

##### [Duckweed](/encyclopedia/lemna-minor)
**Lemna minor** — Araceae · plant
Duckweed is a very common small floating plant, often used in aquariums to absorb nitrates and provide cover.
Lemna minor is a floating aquatic plant of the Araceae family. It measures 1 to 5 mm in diameter, with one or two light green oval leaves and a single fine root. It reproduces quickly by vegetative division, forming dense colonies. In an aquarium, it can cover the entire surface if not controlled. It is very hardy and adapts to various water conditions. It serves as a refuge for fry and invertebrates. Its rapid growth makes it an excellent biological filter.
Parameters: Temperature 15-30°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 0.5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Duckweed is very easy to grow. It thrives under moderate to strong lighting, with a temperature of 15-30°C. A pH of 6.0-8.0 and low to moderate hardness are suitable. It absorbs nitrates and phosphates, helping to control algae. Avoid strong water flow that scatters the plants. Regular trimming is necessary to prevent total shading. It can be easily removed with a net. Be careful not to introduce it accidentally into natural waterways.

##### [Stringy Moss](/encyclopedia/leptodictyum-riparium)
**Leptodictyum riparium** — Hypnaceae · plant
Fine, fast-growing aquatic moss, ideal for creating light mats. Very easy to grow.
Stringy moss is a fine, delicate aquatic moss forming dense, light mats. Its stems are highly branched, with small narrow leaves. It grows quickly and adapts to a wide range of conditions. It is often used as a foreground plant or to create moss effects on decorations. It can also be grown floating. Its fast growth helps control algae by absorbing nutrients.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 3-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Stringy moss is very easy to grow, tolerating temperatures from 18 to 28°C. Low to moderate lighting is sufficient, but stronger light speeds up growth. CO2 is not needed. Water can be soft to hard, with a pH of 6 to 8. It attaches easily to rough surfaces. Occasional liquid fertilization is beneficial. It can be trimmed regularly to maintain a compact shape. Beware of algae if lighting is too intense.

##### [Marsh ludwigia](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-palustris)
**Ludwigia palustris** — Onagraceae · plant
Marsh ludwigia is a stem plant with green to reddish leaves, smaller than L. repens. Ideal for midgrounds and backgrounds.
Leaves are opposite, oval to lanceolate, 1–3 cm, light green to red depending on lighting. The stem is thin and can become creeping. Growth is fast. It produces insignificant yellow flowers. Often used in low-tech tanks. Lower leaves may drop if light is low.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 18–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient, but stronger light intensifies colors. A nutrient-rich substrate and liquid fertilization are beneficial. CO2 addition is not needed. Easy to propagate by cuttings. Compatible with coldwater or tropical fish. Avoid temperatures above 28°C.

##### [Floating fern](/encyclopedia/salvinia-natans)
**Salvinia natans** — Salviniaceae · plant
Floating fern is a small floating fern with spoon-shaped leaves. Ideal for open aquariums.
Leaves are oval, 1–2 cm, light green, with a hairy surface that repels water. They are arranged in pairs along a floating stem. Roots are thin and short. The plant reproduces quickly by fragmentation. It can cover the entire surface if uncontrolled. Provides excellent shelter for fry and reduces light.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 18–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. No substrate. Avoid strong currents. Remove excess regularly to prevent tank suffocation. Compatible with all fish. Can be used in outdoor ponds in summer. Beware of high temperatures (>28°C) that may cause decline.

##### [Tape grass](/encyclopedia/vallisneria-spiralis)
**Vallisneria spiralis** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Tape grass is a background plant with long ribbon-like leaves. It grows quickly and produces stolons.
Leaves are linear, bright green, 30–60 cm long, slightly spiraled. The plant spreads via stolons, forming dense colonies. It can flower at the surface with small white flowers. Very hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. Leaves can be trimmed without damage. Often used in cichlid tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20–28°C, pH 6.5–8.0, GH 5–15. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. A sand or fine gravel substrate works. CO2 addition is not needed. Can become invasive; thin out regularly. Compatible with most fish, including moderate herbivores. Avoid apple snails that may eat young shoots.

##### [Soft hornwort](/encyclopedia/ceratophyllum-submersum)
**Ceratophyllum submersum** — Ceratophyllaceae · plant
Floating or rooted stem plant, finer than common hornwort, fast growth.
Ceratophyllum submersum resembles C. demersum but has finer, softer leaves. Whorls are less dense. It is often more delicate. It grows quickly and can form dense masses. It prefers calm, nutrient-rich waters. In the aquarium, it helps control algae by absorbing excess nutrients. No CO2 needed. Optimal growth with moderate light.
Parameters: Temperature 10-25°C, pH 6-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy to maintain. Temperature 10-25°C, pH 6-8. Moderate light. No CO2. Soft to hard water. Fast growth, trim regularly. Can float or be planted. Compatible with all fish. Avoid strong currents. Ideal for breeding tanks. Absorbs nitrates. Watch for sudden parameter changes.

### South America

##### [Heckel's acara](/encyclopedia/acarichthys-heckelii)
**Acarichthys heckelii** — Cichlidae · fish
Elegant cichlid with elongated fins, peaceful and suitable for Amazonian community tanks. Prefers acidic water.
Acarichthys heckelii grows up to 18 cm. Its body is elongated, silvery with bluish reflections and a horizontal black line. The dorsal and anal fins are long and tapered, giving a graceful appearance. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools in the wild. It is very peaceful and can coexist with tetras, corydoras, and other calm cichlids. It requires acidic, soft water to thrive. Breeding is possible in aquariums, on a hard surface or in a cave.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 18cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended for a group. Ideal temperature is 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, GH 2–8. Fine sand substrate, roots, and catappa leaves create a favorable environment. Diet is omnivorous: small pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetables. It is compatible with most peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive species. Regular 20% weekly water changes are necessary. Breeding is facilitated by soft, acidic water with a bonded pair.

##### [Green terror](/encyclopedia/aequidens-rivulatus)
**Aequidens rivulatus** — Cichlidae · fish
Large South American cichlid with metallic green body, known for its aggression and beauty.
The green terror reaches 20-25 cm. It has a robust body of bright green with blue iridescence and an orange-red caudal fin. Males are larger and have a prominent nuchal hump. It is very territorial and aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It lives in pairs and digs the substrate. In the aquarium, it requires a large volume and hiding places. Breeding is relatively easy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 300 liters for a pair. Neutral to slightly alkaline water (pH 6.5-7.5), temperature 24-28°C, GH 5-15. Carnivorous/omnivorous diet: pellets, fish, shrimp, worms. Can coexist with other large robust cichlids, but avoid smaller fish. Sandy substrate and rocks are needed. Breeding is simple, parents guard eggs. Monitor nitrates (max 30 mg/L) and phosphates (max 1 mg/L).

##### [Agassiz's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-agassizii)
**Apistogramma agassizii** — Cichlidae · fish
A small, colorful dwarf cichlid, ideal for planted aquariums.
Apistogramma agassizii is a dwarf cichlid from the Amazon. Males display bright colors from yellow to red, with elongated fins. Females are duller but fiercely protect their spawn. This species prefers soft, acidic water rich in tannins.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a species tank or with peaceful fish. Provide hiding places (roots, leaf litter). Soft water (GH < 8, KH < 3), pH 5.5-6.5, temperature 24-28°C. Feed live or frozen foods.

##### [Atahualpa dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-atahualpa)
**Apistogramma atahualpa** — Cichlidae · fish
A recently described dwarf cichlid with bright colors and typical Apistogramma behavior.
Apistogramma atahualpa reaches 5-6 cm. Males are very colorful with red and blue dorsal and caudal fins. Females are duller. It is territorial but peaceful. It prefers very soft, acidic water. Breeding is similar to other Apistogramma, with maternal care.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 liters. Very soft water (GH 1-5, KH 0-3) and acidic (pH 5.0-6.5), temperature 24-28°C. Many hiding places. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small pellets. Sensitive species. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Breeding in a species tank.

##### [Baensch's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-baenschi)
**Apistogramma baenschi** — Cichlidae · fish
A peaceful and colorful dwarf cichlid, ideal for planted aquariums. Males display a bright yellow body with black stripes.
Apistogramma baenschi reaches up to 6 cm. The male is larger and more colorful than the female, with red spots on the dorsal and caudal fins. The female is duller, pale yellow with a black lateral stripe. It is a territorial but non-aggressive species that lives in pairs or harems. During breeding, the female turns bright yellow and guards the eggs in a cave. It originates from soft, acidic waters in Peru.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep in an aquarium of at least 60 L, with gentle filtration and low current. Water should be acidic (pH 5.0-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-5). Ideal temperature 25-28°C. Feed with live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia). Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Provide hiding places (roots, leaves, pots). Breeding is possible in a species tank. Avoid overly active tankmates.

##### [Two-striped Apistogramma](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-bitaeniata)
**Apistogramma bitaeniata** — Cichlidae · fish
A dwarf cichlid with an elongated body and two horizontal black stripes. Peaceful but territorial, ideal for a planted aquarium.
Apistogramma bitaeniata reaches up to 7 cm. Its body is elongated with two distinct black stripes on the flanks. The fins are often adorned with blue and red spots in males. The female is smaller and duller. It is a territorial but not very aggressive fish outside breeding. It lives in pairs or harems. It appreciates hiding spots like roots and dead leaves. In the aquarium, it stays near the substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10. Minimum 80-liter tank for a pair or harem. Water should be soft to moderately hard with moderate filtration. Feed with meaty foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms, cichlid pellets. Dense plants and hiding spots are important. Avoid overly active fish. Compatible with peaceful tetras and corydoras.

##### [Borelli's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-borellii)
**Apistogramma borellii** — Cichlidae · fish
Borelli's dwarf cichlid is a peaceful dwarf cichlid with bluish and yellow colors.
It reaches 5–7 cm. Males have elongated dorsal and anal fins, with metallic blue and yellow colors. Females are smaller and pale yellow. One of the most peaceful apistogrammas, can live in groups. Less territorial than other species. Hardy and easy to breed.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, moderate hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a pair or small group. Water can be slightly acidic to neutral. Décor with plants, driftwood and hiding spots. Diet: small live or frozen foods, pellets. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Very tolerant.

##### [Cockatoo dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-cacatuoides)
**Apistogramma cacatuoides** — Cichlidae · fish
The cockatoo dwarf cichlid is a dwarf cichlid with spectacular fins, especially in males.
Males reach up to 8 cm, females 5 cm. Males have large fan-shaped dorsal and caudal fins with elongated rays. Colors vary from yellow to red, with black spots. Females are smaller and yellow. Territorial but can coexist with other peaceful species. Very interesting to observe.
Parameters: Temperature 25-29°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 25–29°C, pH 5.5–7.0, low hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a pair. Water must be well filtered and stable. Décor with driftwood, oak leaves, and plants. Diet: small live or frozen foods, pellets. Compatible with peaceful tetras. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. The female is very protective of eggs.

##### [Black-tailed dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-eremnopyge)
**Apistogramma eremnopyge** — Cichlidae · fish
A dwarf cichlid with a metallic blue body and characteristic black tail. Peaceful but territorial species.
Apistogramma eremnopyge reaches 5-6 cm. The male has an iridescent blue body with green highlights, a tall dorsal fin, and a contrasting black tail. The female is smaller, pale yellow with a black lateral stripe and a less marked tail. It is a benthic species that lives near the substrate. It is territorial during breeding but remains compatible with other small peaceful cichlids. The female lays eggs in a cave and cares for them alone.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Aquarium of at least 60 L, with acidic water (pH 5.0-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-4). Temperature 24-28°C. Gentle filtration, low flow. Small live or frozen food. Provide hiding places (roots, pots, oak leaves). Compatible with tetras and small catfish. Avoid aggressive species. Breeding possible in pairs or harems.

##### [Gephyra dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-gephyra)
**Apistogramma gephyra** — Cichlidae · fish
A discreet dwarf cichlid with a silvery body and bluish fins. Peaceful bottom-dwelling species.
Apistogramma gephyra reaches 5-6 cm. The male has a silvery body with blue highlights, a pointed dorsal fin, and a slightly forked caudal fin. The female is smaller, pale yellow with a black stripe. This species is less colorful than other apistogrammas but very interesting behaviorally. It lives in pairs and defends a small territory. Breeding occurs in a cave; the female turns bright yellow and guards the eggs. It is endemic to the Rio Negro.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 4.5-6, GH 1-3
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Aquarium of at least 60 L, very acidic water (pH 4.5-6.0) and very soft (GH 1-3). Temperature 24-27°C. Gentle filtration, low flow. Live food (brine shrimp, bloodworms). Provide many hiding places (roots, catappa leaves). Compatible with dwarf tetras and catfish. Avoid lively species. Easy breeding in pairs.

##### [Hongslo's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-hongsloi)
**Apistogramma hongsloi** — Cichlidae · fish
A very colorful dwarf cichlid, popular in the hobby. Males display red, blue, and yellow.
Apistogramma hongsloi reaches up to 7 cm. The male is spectacular with an orange-yellow body, red dorsal and caudal fins edged in blue, and a black stripe through the eye. The female is smaller, pale yellow with a black lateral stripe. It is a territorial species but generally peaceful with similarly sized fish. The female lays eggs in a cave and becomes very aggressive to protect the spawn. It originates from acidic waters in Colombia.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 80 L, acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0) and soft (GH 2-6). Temperature 24-28°C. Moderate filtration, low flow. Varied diet: live, frozen, pellets. Provide hiding places (pots, roots). Compatible with tetras, corydoras, other peaceful apistogrammas. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. Easy breeding in pairs.

##### [Inirida dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-iniridae)
**Apistogramma iniridae** — Cichlidae · fish
An elegant dwarf cichlid with a silvery blue body and yellow fins. Rare in the hobby.
Apistogramma iniridae reaches 5-6 cm. The male has a silvery blue body with green highlights, a bright yellow dorsal fin, and a yellow caudal fin. The female is smaller, pale yellow with a black stripe. This species is little known and rarely imported. It lives in very acidic, mineral-poor waters. Its behavior is similar to other apistogrammas: territorial but peaceful. Breeding occurs in a cave; the female turns intense yellow.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 4.5-6, GH 1-3
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Aquarium of at least 60 L, very acidic water (pH 4.5-6.0) and very soft (GH 1-3). Temperature 24-27°C. Gentle filtration, low flow. Small live food (micro worms, nauplii). Provide many hiding places (roots, catappa leaves). Compatible with dwarf tetras and catfish. Avoid any aggressive competition. Breeding delicate, requires pristine water.

##### [MacMaster's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-macmasteri)
**Apistogramma macmasteri** — Cichlidae · fish
A colorful dwarf cichlid from Colombia, popular in the aquarium hobby for its bright colors and interesting behavior.
Apistogramma macmasteri reaches about 5-6 cm. Males are larger and more colorful than females, with red and blue spots on the dorsal and caudal fins. Females are duller but have a black lateral spot. It is territorial but generally peaceful outside breeding. It prefers soft, acidic water with dense vegetation and hiding places. Its breeding behavior is fascinating, with the female tending eggs while the male defends the territory.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a tank of at least 60 liters for a pair. Water should be soft (GH 2-10, KH 1-5) and acidic (pH 5.5-7.0) with a temperature of 24-28°C. Provide plenty of hiding places (roots, leaf litter, clay pots). Feed a varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small pellets. It is peaceful but territorial during breeding. Avoid very active or large fish. A species tank is recommended for breeding.

##### [Nijssen's dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-nijsseni)
**Apistogramma nijsseni** — Cichlidae · fish
An elegant dwarf cichlid with elongated fins, endemic to Peru.
Apistogramma nijsseni reaches 5-6 cm. Males have highly developed dorsal and caudal fins, with blue and yellow colors. Females are smaller and yellow with a black spot. It is peaceful but territorial. It prefers very soft, acidic water. Breeding is typical, with female guarding eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 liters. Very soft water (GH 1-5, KH 0-3) and acidic (pH 5.0-6.5), temperature 24-28°C. Many hiding places and leaf litter. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small worms. Sensitive species. Compatible with other small dwarf cichlids. Breeding in a species tank recommended.

##### [Panduro dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-panduro)
**Apistogramma panduro** — Cichlidae · fish
A dwarf cichlid with interesting behavior and strong sexual dimorphism.
Apistogramma panduro is a recently described dwarf cichlid. Males are large and colorful with high dorsal fins. Females are smaller and yellow. They live in pairs and are territorial. Water must be very soft and acidic.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 5-6, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60L, heavily planted with hiding spots. Very soft water (GH < 5, KH < 2), pH 5.0-6.0, temperature 25-28°C. Varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small insects. Avoid aggressive tankmates.

##### [Three-striped dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-trifasciata)
**Apistogramma trifasciata** — Cichlidae · fish
A dwarf cichlid with an elongated body and three distinctive horizontal stripes, native to Brazil.
Apistogramma trifasciata reaches 5-7 cm. It is distinguished by three dark horizontal stripes on the body. Males are larger and more colorful with bluish fins. Females are smaller and yellowish. It is peaceful but territorial. It prefers very soft, acidic water. Breeding occurs on hard substrate, with female caring for eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 liters. Very soft water (GH 1-5, KH 0-3) and acidic (pH 5.0-6.5), temperature 24-28°C. Many hiding places and leaf litter. Diet: small invertebrates, brine shrimp, daphnia. Sensitive to water quality. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Breeding possible in a species tank.

##### [Viejita dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-viejita)
**Apistogramma viejita** — Cichlidae · fish
A highly colorful dwarf cichlid, closely related to Apistogramma macmasteri, with shades of red and blue.
Apistogramma viejita reaches 5-6 cm. Males are very colorful with red and blue dorsal and caudal fins. Females are smaller and yellowish with a black spot. It is territorial but peaceful outside breeding. It prefers soft, acidic water with dense vegetation. Breeding is typical of Apistogramma: egg laying on hard substrate, maternal care.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 liters for a pair. Soft, acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10, KH 1-5), temperature 24-28°C. Many hiding places (roots, leaves, pots). Varied diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, small pellets. Peaceful but territorial during breeding. Avoid aggressive fish. A species tank is ideal.

##### [Oscar](/encyclopedia/astronotus-ocellatus)
**Astronotus ocellatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Oscar is a large South American cichlid known for its intelligence and personality. It is very popular in aquariums but requires a large tank.
The Oscar has a robust, oval body, with a large mouth and prominent eyes. Adults can reach 35 cm. Wild coloration is olive brown with ocellated spots on the caudal fin, but captive varieties (tiger, red, albino) are common. They are very intelligent fish, capable of recognizing their owner. They are aggressive and territorial, especially towards smaller fish. They are carnivorous and have a voracious appetite. Reproduction is classic: spawning on a flat substrate, parents are very protective.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 35cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 300 L is essential for a single adult Oscar. Ideal temperature is 24 to 28 °C, pH 6.5 to 7.5, and GH 5 to 12 °d. Powerful filtration is needed due to their waste production. They accept carnivore pellets, whole fish, shrimp, and worms. Avoid small fish; tankmates must be large and robust (other large cichlids, catfish). Breeding is possible in the aquarium with a formed pair.

##### [Cupid Cichlid](/encyclopedia/biotodoma-cupido)
**Biotodoma cupido** — Cichlidae · fish
Small peaceful cichlid with bright colors, ideal for a South American community tank. Gregarious species.
Biotodoma cupido reaches about 10-12 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, with a silvery to golden base color. A broad black vertical bar runs through the eye, and a dark spot marks the caudal peduncle. The fins are often edged with iridescent blue. It is a gregarious fish that lives in groups. It is very peaceful and can coexist with other small cichlids and characins. During breeding, males dig pits in the sand. The species is easy to keep and suitable for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 100 liters for a group of 6. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10, KH 1-5. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, worms. Decor with fine sand, roots, plants, and leaf litter. Moderate filtration. Compatible with tetras, corydoras, other dwarf cichlids. Weekly water changes of 20%. Breeding possible in a specific tank with soft acidic water.

##### [Two-spot cichlid](/encyclopedia/cichlasoma-bimaculatum)
**Cichlasoma bimaculatum** — Cichlidae · fish
Medium-sized, robust and territorial cichlid, recognizable by its two black spots on the flank.
The two-spot cichlid can reach 20 cm. Its body is oval and laterally compressed, gray-green with two distinctive black spots: one on the gill cover and one mid-body. Males are larger and develop a nuchal hump. It is territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding. It lives in pairs and digs the substrate. In the aquarium, it needs hiding places and a large volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires at least 200 liters for a pair. Neutral to slightly acidic water (pH 6-7.5), temperature 24-28°C, GH 5-15. Omnivorous diet: pellets, worms, vegetables. Compatible with other robust cichlids of similar size, but avoid small fish. Sandy substrate and rocks are appreciated. Breeding is easy, parents protect eggs and fry. Keep nitrates below 30 mg/L and phosphates below 1 mg/L.

##### [Maroni Cichlid](/encyclopedia/cleithracara-maronii)
**Cleithracara maronii** — Cichlidae · fish
Dwarf cichlid with a deep body and brownish spotted coloration, peaceful and suitable for community tanks.
Cleithracara maronii reaches 8 to 10 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, beige to light brown, with irregular black spots on the flanks and a dark spot on the operculum. The fins are transparent with light spots. It is a shy and peaceful fish that lives in pairs or small groups. It prefers acidic, soft water with dense vegetation and hiding places. Breeding occurs on a hard substrate (stone, root) and the parents guard the eggs and fry. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80-liter aquarium is recommended for a pair. Water should be acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and soft (GH 2-6), with a temperature of 24-27°C. Gentle filtration and moderate lighting are suitable. Diet is omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid aggressive fish; peaceful tetras, corydoras, and small loricariids are good tankmates. Provide hiding places with roots, stones, and plants. Regular water changes (20% per week) are important. Breeding is possible in a community tank if conditions are stable.

##### [Lenticulate Pike Cichlid](/encyclopedia/crenicichla-lenticulata)
**Crenicichla lenticulata** — Cichlidae · fish
Large predatory cichlid with an elongated body and ocellated patterns. Territorial species requiring a large tank.
Crenicichla lenticulata is a medium to large cichlid, reaching 25 cm. Its body is elongated, typical of pike cichlids, with a brown-green base color and rows of light spots. The dorsal and caudal fins are adorned with ocellated patterns. It is an ambush predator that hunts by stealth. In the aquarium, it is very territorial, especially towards conspecifics. It is best kept alone or as a pair in a species-specific tank. Its active behavior and need for hiding places make it a fascinating fish for experienced aquarists.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 300 liters for one specimen, 500 liters for a pair. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10, KH 1-5. Carnivorous diet: fish, shrimp, worms, cichlid pellets. Decor should include rocks, roots, and sturdy plants. Powerful filtration required. Only compatible with similarly sized robust fish. Weekly water changes of 30%. Beware of jumping, cover the tank.

##### [Filamentous Cichlid](/encyclopedia/dicrossus-filamentosus)
**Dicrossus filamentosus** — Cichlidae · fish
Dwarf cichlid with filamentous fins, living in groups in the acidic blackwaters of the Amazon.
Dicrossus filamentosus reaches 5 to 6 cm. Its body is elongated and slender, light brown to grayish, with a series of light spots along the lateral line. The dorsal and caudal fins are extended by long filaments, especially in males. It is a shy and peaceful fish that lives in a hierarchical group. It requires very acidic (pH 4-6) and very soft water (GH < 4). In the aquarium, it spawns on leaves or stones, with parental care. It is sensitive to nitrates and parameter fluctuations.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 4-6, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium is needed for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Water must be very acidic (pH 4.0-6.0) and very soft (GH 1-4), with a temperature of 25-28°C. Use gentle filtration (sponge) and subdued lighting. Diet is carnivorous: micro-worms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and small pellets. Avoid active fish; dwarf tetras (Paracheirodon) or small catfish are compatible. Provide hiding places with roots, catappa leaves, and floating plants. Water changes should be done with RO water. Breeding is possible in a specific tank with very low pH.

##### [Geophagus](/encyclopedia/geophagus-surinamensis)
**Geophagus surinamensis** — Cichlidae · fish
The geophagus is a substrate-sifting cichlid that sifts sand for food. It is appreciated for its interesting behavior and subtle colors.
Geophagus surinamensis has an elongated, laterally compressed body with a pointed head. Adults reach about 15 cm. Coloration is silvery to golden with bluish highlights and a black spot on the operculum. Fins are often edged in red or blue. They are peaceful fish that live in small groups. They spend their time sifting sand for food. Reproduction is on substrate, with parents guarding eggs and fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
A tank of at least 150 L is needed, with a fine sand substrate to allow sifting. Ideal temperature is 24 to 28 °C, pH 6.5 to 7.5, and GH 5 to 12 °d. Efficient filtration is important as they stir up the substrate. They are omnivorous: pellets, flakes, frozen foods, and live food. Compatible tankmates: tetras, corydoras, other peaceful cichlids. Avoid aggressive bottom-dwellers. Breeding is possible with a formed pair.

##### [Severum](/encyclopedia/heros-severus)
**Heros severus** — Cichlidae · fish
The severum is a robust and colorful cichlid, often called 'false discus' due to its rounded shape. It is easier to keep than the discus.
The severum has an oval, laterally compressed body, with a long dorsal fin and rounded anal fin. Adults reach up to 20 cm. Base coloration is olive green to brown, with dark spots and golden highlights. Golden and albino varieties exist. They are peaceful but territorial towards conspecifics. They are omnivorous and accept a wide variety of foods. Reproduction is classic: spawning on a flat substrate, parents guard eggs and fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
A tank of at least 150 L is recommended for a pair. Ideal temperature is 24 to 28 °C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, and GH 5 to 12 °d. Moderate filtration and weekly 20% water changes are sufficient. They accept flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and vegetables. Compatible tankmates: tetras, corydoras, other peaceful cichlids of similar size. Avoid very small or aggressive fish. Breeding is easy if a suitable substrate (flat rock, pot) is provided.

##### [Contradens Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-contradens)
**Hypancistrus contradens** — Loricariidae · fish
Hypancistrus contradens is an armored catfish with a reticulated pattern, robust and adaptable, popular in community aquariums.
This fish measures 10-14 cm. Its body is elongated and moderately flattened. Coloration is light brown to grayish with a network of dark lines forming a reticulated or marbled pattern. The fins are often edged in white. Males have more developed odontodes on the opercles and the first rays of the pectoral fins. It is a nocturnal species but can be seen during the day if it feels secure. It is territorial but tolerates other bottom-dwellers. Breeding in aquariums is possible with caves.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 100-liter tank is sufficient for one specimen. Water parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 4-12°dGH, KH 2-6°dKH. A decor with rocks, roots, and caves is essential. Filtration should be good with moderate flow. Omnivorous: accepts tablets, worms, brine shrimp, and vegetables. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive cichlids. Weekly water changes of 20-30%.

##### [Inspector Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-inspector)
**Hypancistrus inspector** — Loricariidae · fish
Hypancistrus inspector is an armored catfish with a spotted pattern, native to the blackwaters of the Rio Negro, still little known in the aquarium hobby.
This fish reaches about 10-12 cm. Its body is robust, with a broad head and a sucker mouth. The base color is light brown to beige, covered with irregular dark spots sometimes forming marbling. The fins are also spotted. Males have longer odontodes on the opercles. It is a nocturnal and shy species, enjoying hiding places. It is relatively peaceful but may defend its territory. Breeding in aquariums is rarely documented.
Parameters: Temperature 25-29°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: DD
A minimum 120-liter tank is recommended. Water should be acidic and soft: pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-8°dGH, KH 1-4°dKH, temperature 25-29°C. A decor with roots, catappa leaves, and caves is ideal. Filtration should be efficient but with moderate flow. It is omnivorous with a carnivorous tendency: will accept tablets, worms, brine shrimp, and vegetables. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid overly active species. Regular water changes (20% weekly) with RO water preferred.

##### [L174 Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-sp-l174)
**Hypancistrus sp. L174** — Loricariidae · fish
Small zebra-patterned pleco, highly prized in aquaristics. Nocturnal and peaceful species.
Hypancistrus sp. L174 reaches 8-10 cm. Its body is ventrally flattened, with a sucker mouth. The coloration is white to cream with irregular vertical black stripes, reminiscent of a zebra. The fins are broad and patterned. It is a nocturnal fish that spends the day hidden in crevices. It is very peaceful and can coexist with similarly sized fish. It feeds mainly on invertebrates and plant matter. In the aquarium, it appreciates hiding places and moderate current. Breeding is difficult in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Minimum tank size 100 liters for one specimen, 200 liters for a group. Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10, KH 1-5. Omnivorous diet with carnivorous tendency: sinking pellets, brine shrimp, worms, vegetables. Decor with rocks, caves, roots, plants. Powerful filtration with moderate current. Compatible with tetras, corydoras, other Loricariidae. Weekly water changes of 30%. Keep parameters stable. Breeding rare, requires specific conditions.

##### [Queen Arabesque Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-sp-l260)
**Hypancistrus sp. L260** — Loricariidae · fish
A small pleco with an elegant pattern of light lines on a dark background, highly prized in the aquarium hobby.
Hypancistrus L260 has an elongated body and a dark brown to black coloration with white or cream wavy lines. Its eyes are large and its belly is lighter. It is a nocturnal species that spends the day hidden in crevices. It is territorial but peaceful with other fish. Its caudal fin is slightly forked. It can reach 12 cm. It is often confused with L046 but its patterns are finer.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-8. A minimum 100-liter aquarium is recommended. Diet should include bottom-dwelling tablets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber) and frozen foods like brine shrimp. Moderate water flow is appreciated. Hiding places (rocks, roots, PVC pipes) are essential. It is compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species. Clean, well-oxygenated water is crucial.

##### [Zebra Pleco](/encyclopedia/hypancistrus-zebra)
**Hypancistrus zebra** — Loricariidae · fish
The zebra pleco is an iconic armored catfish with a black and white striped pattern, threatened in the wild and highly sought after in the aquarium trade.
This small fish (8-10 cm) has an elongated, laterally compressed body with a sucker mouth. Its coloration is unique: vertical black and white bands over the entire body and fins. Males have more developed odontodes (small spines) on the opercles and pectoral fins. It is nocturnal and shy, requiring many hiding places. It is territorial with conspecifics but can coexist with other peaceful species. Breeding in aquariums is difficult and rare.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: EN
A minimum 80-liter tank is needed for a pair, with strong current and highly oxygenated water. The decor should include smooth rocks, caves, and driftwood. Parameters must be stable: temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 2-10°dGH, KH 1-5°dKH. It is sensitive to nitrates (max 10 mg/L) and phosphates (max 0.2 mg/L). Its diet is carnivorous: bloodworms, brine shrimp, protein-based tablets. Do not keep with aggressive or overly large fish. Frequent water changes (30% weekly) are essential.

##### [Araguaia Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-araguaiae)
**Laetacara araguaiae** — Cichlidae · fish
A peaceful dwarf cichlid, ideal for freshwater community tanks. It stands out for its bright colors and moderate territorial behavior.
Laetacara araguaiae reaches about 7 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a brown-yellow base color and blue/green iridescence on the flanks. The fins are often edged in red or orange. Males are larger and more colorful than females. It is a territorial but generally peaceful fish towards other similarly sized species. It sometimes digs in the substrate to mark its territory. During breeding, it becomes more aggressive and defends its eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep temperature at 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, and GH 2-10. A minimum 60-liter tank is recommended for a pair. Provide sandy substrate, driftwood, and floating plants to create shaded areas. Feed a varied diet: quality pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates; prefer tetras, corydoras, or other peaceful dwarf cichlids. Perform regular water changes (20% weekly). Breeding is possible in the aquarium with stable parameters and soft water.

##### [Curved-head Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-curviceps)
**Laetacara curviceps** — Cichlidae · fish
The Curved-head Dwarf Cichlid is a small peaceful dwarf cichlid, ideal for planted community aquariums. It is appreciated for its elegant shape and subtle colors.
Laetacara curviceps grows up to 7 cm. It has an elongated body with a slightly curved head. Coloration is variable, often beige with bluish reflections and a horizontal black stripe. Males are larger and more colorful. It is a very peaceful fish, even during breeding. It lives in pairs or small groups. It breeds on flat substrate, parents are good guardians.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 2-10. Minimum tank 60 liters. Omnivorous diet: small pellets, flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with most peaceful fish (tetras, rasboras, corydoras). Avoid aggressive or large fish. Provide plants and hiding spots. Good water quality, regular changes. Easy breeding in pairs.

##### [Red-backed acara](/encyclopedia/laetacara-dorsigera)
**Laetacara dorsigera** — Cichlidae · fish
Small peaceful cichlid with reddish back, ideal for planted community aquariums.
The red-backed acara reaches up to 10 cm. Its body is elongated, silvery with an orange-red tint on the back and dorsal fin. A black stripe crosses the eye. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish, living in pairs or small groups. It is not territorial outside breeding. In the aquarium, it enjoys plants and hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
At least 80 liters for a pair. Soft (GH 2-10) and acidic (pH 6-7) water, temperature 24-28°C. Omnivorous diet: small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with tetras, rasboras, corydoras and other small peaceful fish. A planted tank with roots and dark substrate is ideal. Breeding is easy, parents lay eggs on a hard surface. Keep nitrates below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.5 mg/L.

##### [Flame Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-flammea)
**Laetacara flammea** — Cichlidae · fish
A very colorful dwarf cichlid, appreciated for its flaming hues. It is relatively peaceful but can be territorial during breeding.
Laetacara flammea reaches about 6 cm. Its body is stocky with a bright orange-red coloration on the flanks, hence its name. The fins are often marked with black and blue. Males are larger and more colorful than females. It is an active fish that explores its environment. It forms monogamous pairs and defends a territory around its spawn. In the aquarium, it is generally peaceful with other similarly sized species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10. A minimum 50-liter tank for a pair. Decorate with driftwood, plants, and leaf litter to mimic its natural habitat. Varied diet: small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Avoid overly active fish. Compatible with tetras, corydoras, and other dwarf cichlids. Weekly water changes of 20%. Breeding is easy with stable parameters; the female lays eggs on a hard surface and the male fertilizes.

##### [Yellow-spotted Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-fulvopunctata)
**Laetacara fulvopunctata** — Cichlidae · fish
A discreet but elegant dwarf cichlid, recognizable by its yellow spots on the flanks. It is peaceful and suitable for community tanks.
Laetacara fulvopunctata reaches about 7 cm. Its body is elongated with a gray-brown base color and a series of yellow spots aligned horizontally on the flanks. The fins are transparent with bluish reflections. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It is a calm fish that spends much time sifting through the substrate for food. It forms monogamous pairs and spawns on hard surfaces. In the aquarium, it cohabits well with other peaceful species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10. A minimum 60-liter tank for a pair. Provide sandy substrate, driftwood, and plants. Varied diet: small pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with tetras, corydoras, and other dwarf cichlids. Avoid aggressive fish. Regular water changes. Breeding is possible with stable parameters; the female lays eggs on a stone or leaf.

##### [Thayer's Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/laetacara-thayeri)
**Laetacara thayeri** — Cichlidae · fish
Thayer's Dwarf Cichlid is an uncommon dwarf cichlid from the blackwaters of the Rio Negro. It is appreciated for its discreet coloration and peaceful behavior.
Laetacara thayeri grows up to 6 cm. It has an elongated body with a brownish to golden coloration, sometimes with green reflections. Males are slightly larger. It is a shy and peaceful fish, preferring dimly lit aquariums with acidic water. It breeds by laying eggs on substrate, parents guard eggs. It is sensitive to water parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-5, KH 0-3. Minimum tank 60 liters. Carnivorous diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms. Compatible with other blackwater fish (tetras, small cichlids). Avoid active fish. Provide hiding spots (roots, oak leaves). Very soft and acidic water. Frequent water changes with RO water. Breeding possible in pairs.

##### [Festive Cichlid](/encyclopedia/mesonauta-festivus)
**Mesonauta festivus** — Cichlidae · fish
Medium-sized cichlid with a silvery body and characteristic black band, peaceful and easy to keep.
Mesonauta festivus reaches 12 to 15 cm. Its body is deep and compressed, silvery to light gray, with a broad black oblique band from the eye to the back. The fins are yellowish, sometimes with bluish reflections. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in groups. It is omnivorous and readily accepts prepared foods. In the aquarium, it is active but non-aggressive. Breeding occurs on a hard substrate (stone, leaf) and the parents protect the eggs and fry. It is hardy and tolerant of varied water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 150-liter aquarium is recommended for a group of 4 to 6 individuals. Water can be neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6.0-7.5) and medium hardness (GH 4-10), with a temperature of 24-28°C. Moderate filtration and standard lighting are suitable. Diet is omnivorous: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetables. Avoid very small or aggressive fish; medium-sized tetras, corydoras, and angelfish are compatible. Provide open swimming areas and hiding places. Regular water changes (20% per week) maintain quality. Breeding is easy in a community tank.

##### [Bolivian ram](/encyclopedia/mikrogeophagus-altispinosus)
**Mikrogeophagus altispinosus** — Cichlidae · fish
A robust and peaceful dwarf cichlid, perfect for beginners.
The Bolivian ram is a larger and hardier dwarf cichlid than the blue ram. It displays silver, yellow and blue hues with a high dorsal fin. It is less demanding on water quality and adapts to a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 100L, with sandy substrate and plants. Neutral to slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-7.5), GH 5-15, temperature 24-28°C. Omnivore, accepts flakes, pellets and live food. Peaceful, can coexist with other calm fish.

##### [Ram cichlid](/encyclopedia/mikrogeophagus-ramirezi)
**Mikrogeophagus ramirezi** — Cichlidae · fish
The ram cichlid is a small, very colorful dwarf cichlid, appreciated for its bright colors and interesting behavior.
It reaches 5–7 cm. Its body is tall and laterally compressed, with colors ranging from blue to yellow, iridescent spots and ornate fins. Males have more pointed dorsal fins. Territorial but generally peaceful. Forms monogamous pairs. Sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 26–30°C, pH 5.5–7.0, very low hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a pair. Water must be very clean and stable. Gentle filtration and regular water changes. Décor with plants, driftwood and hiding spots. Diet: small live or frozen foods, quality pellets. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Golden Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/nannacara-anomala)
**Nannacara anomala** — Cichlidae · fish
Small dwarf cichlid with a golden body and bluish reflections, ideal for peaceful community aquariums.
Nannacara anomala reaches about 5 to 6 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a golden to light brown base color, dotted with iridescent blue spots on the flanks and fins. Males are more colorful and develop pointed dorsal and anal fins. It is a peaceful fish but becomes territorial during breeding. It lives in pairs or small groups. It prefers soft, acidic water with dense vegetation and hiding places. Its reproduction is typical of dwarf cichlids: egg-laying on a hard substrate (leaf, stone) and intensive parental care.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this cichlid in an aquarium of at least 60 liters for a pair. Water should be soft (GH 2-8) and acidic (pH 6.0-7.0), with a temperature of 24-28°C. Gentle filtration and moderate lighting are recommended. Diet is omnivorous: flakes, small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and frozen bloodworms. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates; peaceful tetras, corydoras, or small catfish are suitable. Provide hiding places with roots, stones, and plants. During breeding, the male becomes territorial but usually causes no damage. Parameters must be stable; regular water changes (20% per week) are necessary.

##### [Banded Dwarf Cichlid](/encyclopedia/nannacara-taenia)
**Nannacara taenia** — Cichlidae · fish
The Banded Dwarf Cichlid is a small dwarf cichlid with striped patterns, native to blackwater environments of South America. It is less common in aquariums but very interesting.
Nannacara taenia grows up to 5 cm. It has dark vertical bands on a light body. Males are more colorful than females. It is a shy and peaceful fish, preferring dimly lit aquariums with acidic water. It breeds by laying eggs on substrate. Parents care for the fry. It is sensitive to nitrates and requires very clean water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-5, KH 0-3. Minimum tank 60 liters. Carnivorous diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms. Compatible with other blackwater fish (tetras, small cichlids). Avoid active fish. Provide hiding spots (roots, oak leaves). Very soft and acidic water. Frequent water changes with RO water. Breeding possible in pairs.

##### [Armbruster's Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-armbrusteri)
**Panaque armbrusteri** — Loricariidae · fish
Armbruster's Panaque is a Brazilian freshwater catfish, characterized by its spotted pattern and moderate size.
This fish has a robust body and a beige to gray coloration with irregular dark spots. Its sucker mouth is adapted for scraping wood. It reaches about 15 cm in aquariums. It is a peaceful and nocturnal species that appreciates hiding places. It feeds mainly on wood and vegetables. It was described relatively recently (2005). Its maintenance is similar to other medium-sized Panaque.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 150 liters is recommended. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-10), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. Driftwood is essential. Supplement with blanched vegetables and herbivore pellets. Nitrates should stay below 20 mg/L. Moderate filtration and regular water changes are sufficient. This species is compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Clown Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-maccus)
**Panaque maccus** — Loricariidae · fish
The Clown Panaque is a small freshwater catfish with a spotted pattern, very popular in aquariums.
This fish has a stocky body and a beige to yellow coloration with large black spots. It has a sucker mouth and teeth adapted for scraping wood. It reaches a maximum size of about 12 cm. It is a peaceful and nocturnal species that appreciates hiding places. It is less dependent on wood than large Panaque but still consumes it. It is often confused with other small Panaque species. Its maintenance is relatively easy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-10), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. Provide driftwood, caves, and plants. Diet should include blanched vegetables, herbivore pellets, and wood. Nitrates should stay below 20 mg/L. Moderate filtration and regular water changes are sufficient. This species is compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Royal Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-nigrolineatus)
**Panaque nigrolineatus** — Loricariidae · fish
The Royal Panaque is a large freshwater catfish known for its distinctive black stripes and wood-based diet.
This fish has a robust body and a beige to gray coloration with longitudinal black lines. Its sucker mouth is equipped with rasp-like teeth for scraping wood. It can reach a size of 30-40 cm in aquariums. It is a peaceful species but can become territorial with age. It is mainly nocturnal and spends the day hiding. It is known for its ability to digest cellulose thanks to specialized gut flora. In aquariums, it requires a large water volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 35cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 400 liters is necessary for an adult. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-10), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. Driftwood is essential in the diet and must be present at all times. Supplement with blanched vegetables, herbivore pellets, and occasionally protein foods. Nitrates should be kept below 20 mg/L. Powerful filtration and weekly water changes are recommended. This species is compatible with large peaceful fish. Avoid small fish that might be intimidated.

##### [Sutton's Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-suttoni)
**Panaque suttoni** — Loricariidae · fish
Sutton's Panaque is a Colombian freshwater catfish, recognizable by its patterns and medium size.
This fish has an elongated body and a beige base coloration with dark spots sometimes forming lines. Its sucker mouth is typical of Loricariidae. It can reach 20 cm in aquariums. It is a peaceful and nocturnal species that hides in caves or under wood. It feeds mainly on wood and vegetables. It is less common in the hobby than other Panaque. Its maintenance is similar to other species of the genus.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 250 liters is recommended for an adult. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-10), acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. Driftwood is essential in the diet. Supplement with blanched vegetables and herbivore pellets. Nitrates should be kept below 20 mg/L. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary. This species is compatible with peaceful medium to large fish. Avoid very small or aggressive species.

##### [Titan Panaque](/encyclopedia/panaque-titan)
**Panaque titan** — Loricariidae · fish
A large and impressive catfish with a tiger-striped pattern, famous for its need of wood in its diet.
The Titan Panaque is a large loricariid reaching up to 45 cm. Its body is robust, covered with bony plates, with a tall dorsal fin and a lyre-shaped tail. The base color is dark brown to black, adorned with irregular vertical light bands. It has a powerful sucker mouth and rasp-like teeth to scrape wood. It is a nocturnal and rather solitary fish, but tolerant of other peaceful species. It is known for its ecological role as a xylophage (wood-eater) in its natural habitat. In the aquarium, it requires strong filtration and well-oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 45cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, and GH 5-15. A large aquarium of at least 400 liters is required due to its adult size. The diet must include wood (roots, branches) as the main source of fiber, supplemented with blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber) and meaty foods (worms, shrimp). It is sensitive to water quality; regular water changes (30% weekly) are essential. Avoid aggressive or very small tankmates; choose peaceful medium to large fish. Moderate to strong current is appreciated. Breeding in captivity is very rare and poorly documented.

##### [Altum angelfish](/encyclopedia/pterophyllum-altum)
**Pterophyllum altum** — Cichlidae · fish
A majestic angelfish, taller than wide, requiring a large aquarium.
The altum angelfish is the largest angelfish species, reaching 15 cm in height. It has a silver body with dark vertical bars and very long fins. It is sensitive to water quality and requires soft, acidic water. It is a gregarious fish that lives in groups.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NT
Tank of at least 200L, tall (60 cm minimum), with tall plants and roots. Very soft water (GH < 5, KH < 2), pH 5.0-6.5, temperature 26-30°C. Varied diet: brine shrimp, bloodworms, small fish. Avoid strong currents. Keep in groups of 4-6.

##### [Angelfish](/encyclopedia/pterophyllum-scalare)
**Pterophyllum scalare** — Cichlidae · fish
The angelfish is an iconic South American cichlid, recognizable by its triangular shape and long fins. It is very popular in the aquarium hobby.
The angelfish has a tall, laterally compressed body with highly developed dorsal and anal fins. Its silvery coloration is crossed by dark vertical bars, but many captive varieties exist (marble, black, veil). It is a calm but territorial fish during breeding. It forms monogamous pairs and spawns on vertical surfaces. Adults can reach 15 cm in height and 20 cm in length.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep angelfish in an aquarium of at least 200 L with significant water height (minimum 50 cm). Water should be acidic (pH 6.0-6.5) and very soft (GH 3-8). Ideal temperature is between 26 and 30°C. Provide a setup with roots, tall plants, and subdued lighting. They are omnivorous: accept flakes, pellets, artemia, and bloodworms. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates; prefer peaceful fish like tetras or corydoras. Efficient filtration is needed, but avoid strong current.

##### [Lapidiferous Retroculus](/encyclopedia/retroculus-lapidifer)
**Retroculus lapidifer** — Cichlidae · fish
Rheophilic cichlid with a streamlined body, adapted to strong currents. Feeds by scraping stones.
Retroculus lapidifer reaches 15-20 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed, with a subterminal mouth adapted for grazing. The coloration is silvery with bluish reflections and a series of dark spots on the flanks. The fins are amber. It is an active fish that lives in groups in current zones. It feeds on algae and microorganisms scraped from rocks. In the aquarium, it requires strong current and highly oxygenated water. It is semi-aggressive towards conspecifics but can coexist with other rheophiles.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 250 liters for a group of 4-6. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 5-15, KH 2-8. Omnivorous diet with herbivorous tendency: algae, blanched vegetables, pellets, brine shrimp. Decor with pebbles, coarse sand, roots. Powerful filtration with a wavemaker. Compatible with other current-loving fish (Loricariidae, Characins). Weekly water changes of 30%. Breeding difficult, spawns on hard substrate.

##### [Jurupari cichlid](/encyclopedia/satanoperca-jurupari)
**Satanoperca jurupari** — Cichlidae · fish
Peaceful, sand-sifting cichlid with a downturned mouth and golden patterns. Ideal for an Amazonian biotope.
Satanoperca jurupari is a medium-sized cichlid (up to 20 cm) with an elongated, laterally compressed body. Its base color is gray-brown with golden highlights and a series of dark spots along the flank. It has a downturned mouth adapted for sifting sand in search of food. Its behavior is generally peaceful, but it can become territorial during breeding. It is a gregarious fish that appreciates the presence of conspecifics. It is known for constantly turning over the substrate, requiring fine, non-abrasive sand.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep an aquarium of at least 200 liters with a fine sand substrate to allow sifting. Ideal temperature is 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–10. Efficient filtration is required as this fish produces a lot of waste. Feed a varied diet: sinking pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and blanched vegetables. It is compatible with other peaceful cichlids and medium-sized schooling fish. Avoid aggressive or very small species. Weekly water changes of 30% are recommended. Breeding is possible with a bonded pair, on a flat stone or in a sand depression.

##### [Blue discus](/encyclopedia/symphysodon-aequifasciatus)
**Symphysodon aequifasciatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The blue discus is a South American cichlid renowned for its round shape and bright colors. It is considered the king of the freshwater aquarium.
The blue discus has a disc-shaped, laterally compressed body with long dorsal and anal fins. Its base coloration is electric blue with darker vertical stripes. Many selected varieties exist. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups. It is sensitive to stress and requires impeccable water quality. Adults reach up to 15 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 28-30°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep discus in groups of at least 5 in a minimum 300 L aquarium. Water must be very acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-4). Ideal temperature is 28-30°C. Weekly 30% water changes are essential. The setup should include roots, robust plants, and a dark substrate. They are carnivorous: feed quality frozen foods (artemia, bloodworms) and specific pellets. Avoid aggressive fish; tetras and corydoras are good tankmates.

##### [Red discus](/encyclopedia/symphysodon-discus)
**Symphysodon discus** — Cichlidae · fish
The red discus is a colorful variant of the discus, highly prized for its intense red coloration. It shares the same requirements as the blue discus.
The red discus has a disc-shaped, compressed body with extended dorsal and anal fins. Its color ranges from bright red to orange, often with iridescent blue spots. It is a schooling and peaceful fish, but very sensitive to water quality. It can reach up to 15 cm in diameter. In the aquarium, it requires constant attention.
Parameters: Temperature 28-30°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requirements are identical to those of the blue discus: minimum 300 L aquarium, group of 5, very acidic water (pH 5.5-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-4), temperature 28-30°C. Frequent water changes are crucial. The setup should provide hiding places and subdued lighting. Diet must be varied and protein-rich. Avoid boisterous fish. Breeding is possible but delicate.

##### [Heckel discus](/encyclopedia/symphysodon-heckelii)
**Symphysodon heckelii** — Cichlidae · fish
The most famous wild discus, demanding in care but magnificent.
The Heckel discus is one of the most iconic discus species. It is distinguished by five dark vertical bars on a blue-green body. It lives in schools in acidic blackwaters. It is a very sensitive fish requiring perfectly clean and stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 28-30°C, pH 5-6, GH 1-3
Care: Difficulty 5/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NT
Tank of at least 200L, with bare bottom or sparse planting, roots and frequent water changes. Very soft water (GH < 3, KH < 1), pH 5.0-6.0, temperature 28-30°C. Rich varied diet: beef heart, brine shrimp, worms. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid stressful tankmates.

##### [Uaru Cichlid](/encyclopedia/uaru-amphiacanthoides)
**Uaru amphiacanthoides** — Cichlidae · fish
Large cichlid with a deep, compressed body, peaceful but requiring a large water volume.
Uaru amphiacanthoides reaches 20 to 25 cm. Its body is deep, laterally compressed, oval-shaped, with an olive-brown to grayish coloration, scattered with irregular light spots. The fins are long and rounded. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in groups. It is omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency, feeding on plants and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, it needs swimming space and hiding places. Reproduction is egg-laying on substrate, with parental care. It is sensitive to water quality and nitrates.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 300-liter aquarium is needed for a group of 4 to 6 individuals. Water should be acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and soft (GH 2-6), with a temperature of 26-30°C. Powerful filtration but moderate flow is recommended. Diet should include vegetables (spinach, zucchini) and protein foods. Avoid very small fish; peaceful cichlids of similar size (Angelfish, Discus) or large tetras are suitable. Provide large plants, roots, and rocks. Weekly water changes of 30% are essential. Captive breeding is possible but requires a specific tank.

##### [Bristlenose pleco](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-cirrhosus)
**Ancistrus cirrhosus** — Loricariidae · fish
The bristlenose pleco is an armored catfish known for its nasal tentacles in males, very effective at cleaning algae.
Ancistrus cirrhosus reaches 12-15 cm. Its body is ventrally flattened, covered with bony plates. The mouth is a sucker. Adult males develop fleshy tentacles on the snout. Coloration is brown to olive with light spots. The fins are broad. It is a nocturnal and territorial fish towards its own kind. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm. It is very hardy and suitable for community aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 L is recommended. Water should be well oxygenated, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, temperature 24-28°C. Moderate current is appreciated. Provide hiding places (rocks, roots, pipes). Omnivorous with herbivorous tendency: give blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber), algae wafers, and some protein. Avoid overstocking. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Males may fight.

##### [Longfin bristlenose](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-dolichopterus)
**Ancistrus dolichopterus** — Loricariidae · fish
A peaceful small catfish with elongated fins, ideal for community aquariums.
Ancistrus dolichopterus, also known as the longfin bristlenose, is a catfish from the Loricariidae family native to the Amazon basin. It is distinguished by its particularly developed dorsal and caudal fins forming long filaments. Its body is covered with bony plates and its sucker mouth allows it to graze on algae. It is a nocturnal and peaceful fish that cohabits well with other non-aggressive species.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain well-oxygenated water with moderate flow. Provide hiding places (driftwood, rocks) and a fine sand substrate. Diet should include algae, blanched vegetables, and bottom-feeder tablets. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates.

##### [Hoplogenys Ancistrus](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-hoplogenys)
**Ancistrus hoplogenys** — Loricariidae · fish
Hoplogenys Ancistrus is a large herbivorous ancistrus, recognizable by its developed tentacles and spotted pattern. It is ideal for large community aquariums.
This fish has a robust, flattened body, dark brown to black with yellow or white spots. Males have numerous tentacles on the head, longer than in A. temminckii. The sucker mouth is wide. The fins are large and adorned with light spots. It is nocturnal and territorial. It spends the day hidden in caves or under roots. It is an excellent algae grazer. It can reach 15 cm, requiring a large volume. It is compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 150L is recommended for one specimen, 200L for a pair. Provide plenty of hiding spots and driftwood. Temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15. Diet: algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and occasional protein supplements. They are peaceful but can be aggressive between males. Strong filtration is needed. Regular water changes. Breeding occurs in a cave; the male tends the spawn. Fry are easy to raise with algae and vegetables.

##### [Starlight Bristlenose Pleco](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-leucostictus)
**Ancistrus leucostictus** — Loricariidae · fish
Ancistrus leucostictus is a small armored catfish adorned with white spots, highly valued in aquariums for its algae-eating role and hardiness.
This fish has a ventrally flattened body, a sucker mouth, and high-set eyes. Adult males develop tentacles (bristles) on the snout, characteristic of the genus. Its base color is dark brown to black, sprinkled with small regular white or yellow spots. It has a tall dorsal fin and broad pectoral fins. It is nocturnal and shy, hiding during the day in caves or under driftwood. It is territorial towards conspecifics but peaceful with other species. Its lifespan can reach 10 to 12 years in an aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 23-27°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended for one specimen, with a decor including hiding places (rocks, roots, caves). The substrate can be fine sand or gravel. Filtration should be efficient with moderate flow. Ideal parameters are temperature 23-27°C, pH 6.0-7.5, hardness GH 5-15°dGH and KH 2-8°dKH. It feeds mainly on algae, bottom-dweller tablets, and blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber). It is compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive or overly active species. A weekly water change of 20-30% is advised.

##### [Temminck's Ancistrus](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-temminckii)
**Ancistrus temminckii** — Loricariidae · fish
Temminck's Ancistrus is an armored herbivorous catfish, known for its oral tentacles in males. It is very effective at cleaning algae in the aquarium.
This fish has a flattened, armored body, brown to olive with light spots. Males develop tentacles (barbels) on the snout, used during displays. The mouth is a sucker, adapted for grazing algae. The fins are broad and rounded. It is mainly nocturnal but can be active during the day if the tank is well planted. It is territorial, especially among males. It hides in caves or under roots. It can be kept as a pair or harem.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100L is recommended for a pair. Provide hiding places (caves, driftwood). Temperature 23–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15. Diet: algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber), and occasional worms. They are peaceful but can be territorial with other loricariids. Strong filtration is needed, but current should be moderate. Weekly water changes of 20–30%. Breeding occurs in a cave; the male guards the eggs until hatching.

##### [Martha's Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-marthae)
**Carnegiella marthae** — Characidae · fish
Small hatchetfish with a silver body and developed pectoral fin, perfect for nano aquariums.
Carnegiella marthae grows up to 3.5 cm. Its body is deep and compressed, with a shiny silver line. The pectoral fins are large and allow it to glide. It is a schooling fish. It feeds on surface insects. In the aquarium, it is peaceful and active. It prefers acidic and soft water. Its small size makes it ideal for small volumes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
School of 6-10 individuals. Aquarium of at least 60L. Parameters: pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-10, KH 1-5, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: micro-flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Cover required. Floating plants and roots. Compatible with very small peaceful fish. Avoid larger species.

##### [Myers' Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-myersi)
**Carnegiella myersi** — Characidae · fish
Very small hatchetfish with a silvery body and a fine dark line, perfect for nano aquariums.
Myers' hatchetfish reaches only 2.5 to 3 cm. Its body is laterally compressed with a sharp belly. It is silvery with a dark horizontal line. Its pectoral fins are large. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in schools. It is very active at the surface. In the aquarium, it requires a lid. It feeds on insects and small invertebrates. Its small size makes it an excellent choice for small tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24 to 28°C, pH 6.0 to 7.0, soft GH (2-8°d). A tank of at least 40 liters is sufficient for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet is insectivorous: microworms, brine shrimp, fruit flies, and fine flakes. Filtration should be gentle. Subdued lighting and floating plants are recommended. A lid is essential. Avoid large fish. Breeding is rare in captivity, requiring very soft and acidic water.

##### [Scherer's Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-schereri)
**Carnegiella schereri** — Characidae · fish
Small silvery hatchetfish with a dark spot on the flank, very similar to Carnegiella myersi.
Scherer's hatchetfish reaches about 2.5 to 3 cm. Its body is laterally compressed with a sharp belly. It is silvery with a distinct dark spot on the flank, sometimes a line. Its pectoral fins are large. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in schools. It is very active at the surface. In the aquarium, it requires a lid. It feeds on insects and small crustaceans. It is often confused with Carnegiella myersi.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24 to 28°C, pH 6.0 to 7.0, soft GH (2-8°d). A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet is insectivorous: microworms, brine shrimp, fruit flies, and fine flakes. Filtration should be gentle. Subdued lighting and floating plants are ideal. A lid is mandatory. Avoid large fish. Breeding is rare in captivity, requiring very soft and acidic water.

##### [Marbled Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-strigata)
**Carnegiella strigata** — Characidae · fish
Small surface-dwelling fish with a compressed body, recognizable by its marbled brown and silver pattern.
The marbled hatchetfish reaches about 3 to 4 cm. Its body is tall and laterally compressed, with a sharp belly. It has a dark brown marbled pattern on a silvery background. Its pectoral fins are large and allow it to glide. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in schools. It is very active at the surface. In the aquarium, it needs a lid. It feeds on insects and small crustaceans. Its mouth is upturned.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24 to 28°C, pH 5.5 to 7.0, very soft GH (1-5°d). A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet is insectivorous: fruit flies, microworms, brine shrimp, and surface flakes. Filtration should be gentle. Subdued lighting and floating plants are ideal. A lid is mandatory. Avoid overly active fish. Breeding is difficult, requiring very acidic water and fine-leaved plants for spawning.

##### [Dwarf hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/carnegiella-vesca)
**Carnegiella vesca** — Characidae · fish
Small surface-dwelling fish with a laterally compressed hatchet-shaped body. Ideal for blackwater aquariums.
Carnegiella vesca is a small fish reaching up to 3 cm. Its body is strongly laterally compressed with large wing-like pectoral fins. It has a silvery coloration with bluish reflections and a dark horizontal line. It is a surface-dwelling fish that stays near the water surface. It can jump out of the water to catch insects. Its schooling behavior requires the presence of conspecifics. It is sensitive to water quality and prefers soft, acidic water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 60 liters with a large surface area. Water should be soft (GH 2-10) and acidic (pH 5.5-7.0) with a temperature of 24-28°C. A tight-fitting lid is essential as this fish jumps. The aquarium should be planted with floating plants to provide shaded areas. Diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine dry food. Compatible with other small peaceful blackwater fish. Schooling species, keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Bronze corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-aeneus)
**Corydoras aeneus** — Callichthyidae · fish
Small armored catfish, very popular for cleaning the bottom. Peaceful and gregarious.
Bronze corydoras grows 6-7 cm. Its body is stocky, covered with bony plates (armor). Coloration is bronze to metallic green on the back, lighter on the belly. It has sensory barbels around the mouth. It is a gregarious bottom fish that lives in groups. It is very active and sifts through the substrate for food. It is known for its hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium for a group of 5-6 individuals. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A fine sand substrate is essential to avoid damaging barbels. A setup with hiding spots and moderate current is appreciated. Omnivorous, accepts bottom tablets, worms, and flakes. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly large species.

##### [Venezuela Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-aeneus-venezuela)
**Corydoras aeneus Venezuela** — Callichthyidae · fish
Small armored catfish, peaceful and gregarious, perfect for community tanks. Geographic variant of Corydoras aeneus.
Corydoras aeneus Venezuela reaches 6-7 cm. Its body is stocky, covered with bony plates, with a bronze to metallic green base color. A dark longitudinal stripe runs along the flanks. The fins are translucent. It is a gregarious bottom-dweller that lives in groups of at least 6. It is very active during the day, sifting through the substrate for food. It is completely peaceful and compatible with most fish. Its reproduction is relatively easy in the aquarium, with a characteristic courtship display.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum tank size 60 liters for a group of 6. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-5. Omnivorous diet: bottom-feeder tablets, worms, brine shrimp, vegetables. Decor with fine sand (avoid sharp gravel), roots, plants. Moderate filtration. Compatible with tetras, rasboras, guppies, other corydoras. Weekly water changes of 20%. Breeding triggered by a cool water change.

##### [Dwarf Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-habrosus)
**Corydoras habrosus** — Callichthyidae · fish
The Dwarf Corydoras is one of the smallest corydoras, perfect for nano aquariums. It is very peaceful and lives in groups.
This fish reaches only 2–3 cm. Its body is stocky with a light beige to gray coloration, marked with small dark spots and a black lateral band. Fins are transparent. It has short barbels. It is a schooling fish that must be kept in groups of at least 6. It is very active during the day and sifts through the substrate. It reproduces by laying eggs on plants or glass. Fry are very small and difficult to raise. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 30-liter tank is sufficient for a group. Ideal temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Substrate should be fine and non-abrasive. Diet must be suitable for its small size: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. This fish is very peaceful and can coexist with other small species like rasboras or shrimp. Keep in groups of at least 6. Frequent water changes and good oxygenation are needed. Avoid larger or aggressive fish.

##### [Dwarf corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-hastatus)
**Corydoras hastatus** — Callichthyidae · fish
A tiny spotted corydoras, very active and gregarious.
Corydoras hastatus is a small catfish about 2.5 cm. Its body is beige with dark spots and a black band on the tail. It is very social and must live in a group. It enjoys planted tanks with a soft substrate. It is an excellent bottom cleaner.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 30L, sandy substrate, plants and roots. Group of 6+ individuals. Soft to slightly acidic water, gentle filtration. Varied diet: micro pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Regular water changes.

##### [Peppered Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-paleatus)
**Corydoras paleatus** — Callichthyidae · fish
The Peppered Corydoras is a peaceful, schooling bottom-dweller, very popular in the hobby. It is recognized by its marbled pattern and barbels.
This fish has a stocky, armored body with a beige to gray base color covered in irregular dark spots. It has three pairs of sensory barbels around the mouth. Fins are transparent with some black spots. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups and spends its time sifting through the substrate for food. It is very peaceful and compatible with most community fish. Reproduction occurs by laying eggs on hard surfaces; eggs are adhesive. Parents do not care for the eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter tank is recommended for a group of 5–6. Ideal temperature 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Substrate should be fine and smooth to protect barbels. Provide a varied diet: sinking tablets, bloodworms, brine shrimp. This fish is very peaceful and can coexist with tetras, rasboras, peaceful gouramis. Keep in groups of at least 5. Regular water changes are important. Avoid aggressive or overly large fish.

##### [Panda corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-panda)
**Corydoras panda** — Callichthyidae · fish
Small catfish with a black and white pattern reminiscent of a panda. Highly appreciated for its beauty and peaceful behavior.
Panda corydoras grows 4-5 cm. Its body is cream white with black spots: one around the eyes (mask), one on the dorsal fin, and one at the tail base. The body is stocky and armored. It is a gregarious bottom fish, very active. It is more sensitive than the bronze corydoras. It prefers cooler, well-oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 50-liter aquarium for a group of 5-6 individuals. Temperature 22-26°C (avoid high temperatures), pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A fine sand substrate is mandatory. A setup with roots and plants, along with good current, is recommended. Omnivorous, accepts bottom tablets and small prey. Compatible with small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species or overly warm temperatures.

##### [Pygmy corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-pygmaeus)
**Corydoras pygmaeus** — Callichthyidae · fish
A very popular small catfish, ideal for nano-aquariums in groups.
Corydoras pygmaeus is one of the smallest corydoras, barely reaching 3 cm. Its body is silvery with a horizontal black stripe. It lives in schools and spends its time sifting the substrate for food. It is a peaceful and hardy fish, perfect for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 30L, sandy substrate, plants and hiding spots. Group of 6 minimum. Soft to neutral water, gentle filtration. Varied diet: sinking pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Schwartz's Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-schwartzi)
**Corydoras schwartzi** — Callichthyidae · fish
Schwartz's Corydoras is a small peaceful catfish from Brazil. It is highly valued in community aquariums for its schooling behavior and spotted pattern.
This corydoras has a stout, armored body with a beige to gray coloration covered in irregular black spots. A dark stripe runs through the eye and extends to the dorsal fin. The fins are translucent with black dots. It has sensory barbels around the mouth. Like all corydoras, it occasionally breathes at the surface using its vascularized intestine. It is a schooling species that lives in groups of 5 or more. It is active during the day and forages through the substrate for food.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep a group of at least 5 individuals in a tank of at least 60 liters. A fine sand substrate is essential to protect their barbels. Ideal temperature is 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15. They accept a varied diet: sinking pellets, bottom feeder tablets, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Avoid strong currents. Corydoras are very peaceful and compatible with most small fish. Gentle filtration and regular water changes are recommended. They spawn on glass or plants, and eggs hatch in 3–5 days.

##### [Sodalis Corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-sodalis)
**Corydoras sodalis** — Callichthyidae · fish
Sodalis Corydoras is a small, discreet catfish from the Amazon basin. It is distinguished by its spotted pattern and peaceful behavior.
This corydoras has a stout, armored body, beige to light gray with small black spots scattered over the body and head. A dark stripe crosses the eye. The fins are transparent with a few black dots. It has well-developed barbels. Like other corydoras, it can breathe air at the surface. It is a schooling species that lives in groups. It is less active than some relatives but remains a good forager. Its modest size makes it an excellent choice for nano tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep a group of at least 5 in a 50L minimum tank. Fine sand substrate is essential. Temperature 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15. Diet: fine granules, tablets, brine shrimp, daphnia. They are very peaceful and compatible with small fish like tetras or rasboras. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Gentle filtration and regular water changes are recommended. Breeding is similar to other corydoras, with spawning on glass.

##### [Sterba's corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-sterbai)
**Corydoras sterbai** — Callichthyidae · fish
Sterba's corydoras is a small armored catfish very popular in aquariums, recognizable by its black spots on a light background.
Corydoras sterbai grows up to 6 cm. Its body is stocky, covered with bony plates. The base color is beige to light orange with irregular black spots. The fins are translucent with black stripes. It has sensory barbels around the mouth. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in schools. It can breathe atmospheric air through its vascularized intestine. Its substrate-sifting behavior is typical of Corydoras.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 5 individuals in a tank of at least 80 L. Water should be soft (GH 3-8), acidic (pH 6.0-6.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. A fine sand substrate is essential to protect their barbels. Provide hiding places (roots, plants). They are omnivorous: accept pellets, tablets, bloodworms, artemia. Avoid strong currents. Sensitive to nitrates, keep NO3 < 10 mg/L. Compatible with most small peaceful fish.

##### [Silver Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/gasteropelecus-levis)
**Gasteropelecus levis** — Characidae · fish
Small silver hatchetfish with a laterally compressed body, ideal for peaceful community aquariums.
Gasteropelecus levis grows up to 3.5 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, with enlarged pectoral fins that allow it to jump out of the water. It has a shiny silver stripe on the flank. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups. It feeds mainly on surface insects. In the aquarium, it is peaceful and active. Its surface swimming is characteristic.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a school of at least 6 individuals. Aquarium of at least 60L with open surface area. Parameters: pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-15, KH 1-10, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Sensitive to nitrates (max 20 mg/L). Provide a tight cover as it jumps. Floating plants appreciated. Compatible with other small peaceful fish.

##### [Spotted Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/gasteropelecus-maculatus)
**Gasteropelecus maculatus** — Characidae · fish
Silver hatchetfish with dark spots, active at the surface and easy to keep in groups.
Gasteropelecus maculatus reaches 5 cm. Its body is deep and compressed, with irregular black spots. The pectoral fins are large. It is a schooling fish. It feeds on insects and small crustaceans. In the aquarium, it is peaceful and active. It prefers slightly acidic water. Its surface swimming is fast.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
School of at least 6 individuals. Aquarium of at least 80L. Parameters: pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-15, KH 1-10, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: flakes, small insects, brine shrimp. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Cover required. Floating plants and open areas. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Silver Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/gasteropelecus-sternicla)
**Gasteropelecus sternicla** — Characidae · fish
Surface-dwelling fish with a laterally compressed body, capable of gliding out of the water to catch insects.
The silver hatchetfish reaches up to 7 cm. Its body is strongly compressed laterally with a sharp belly. It has large pectoral fins that allow it to jump out of the water. Its coloration is silvery with a dark horizontal line. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools near the surface. It is peaceful but can be nervous. In the aquarium, it requires a tight-fitting lid to prevent jumping. It feeds mainly on insects at the surface. Its mouth is upturned.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature between 24 and 28°C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, soft GH (2-10°d). A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet should be rich in insects: fruit flies, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and surface flakes. Filtration should be gentle to avoid strong currents. Subdued lighting and floating plants are appreciated. A lid is essential. Avoid aggressive bottom-dwellers. Breeding is rare in captivity, requiring very acidic water and fine-leaved plants.

##### [Black skirt tetra](/encyclopedia/gymnocorymbus-ternetzi)
**Gymnocorymbus ternetzi** — Characidae · fish
The black skirt tetra is a very common freshwater fish, recognizable by its large black dorsal fin and silvery body.
It reaches about 6 cm. Its body is silvery with a gray tint, and the dorsal, anal and caudal fins are black. Long-finned varieties exist. A schooling fish, peaceful but may be slightly territorial with conspecifics. Hardy and easy to keep.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, moderate hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a school of 6. Water can be neutral to slightly acidic. Décor with plants and hiding spots. Diet: flakes, pellets, live foods. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid long-finned species (risk of fin nipping).

##### [Bellott's Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-bellottii)
**Hemigrammus bellottii** — Characidae · fish
Bellott's Tetra is a small discreet fish with a silvery body and slightly tinted caudal fin. It lives in schools in Amazonian blackwaters.
This tetra reaches about 3.5 cm. Its body is elongated, silvery with greenish reflections. A fine dark line runs along the flank. The caudal fin is hyaline with a slight yellowish tint. It is less colorful than other tetras but has a discreet elegance. It swims in schools and occupies the mid-water. It is a peaceful and shy species that appreciates heavily planted aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 3.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 6 in a minimum 50-liter tank. Water should be soft and acidic (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-10). Temperature 23-28°C. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting are preferable. Omnivorous, accepts micro-foods. Provide hiding places with plants and roots. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid lively or aggressive species. Breeding is possible in very soft acidic water.

##### [Rummy-nose tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-bleheri)
**Hemigrammus bleheri** — Characidae · fish
The rummy-nose tetra is recognizable by its bright red head and black-and-white striped tail.
It reaches about 5 cm. The head is red, the body silvery, and the caudal fin has black and white bands. A very active schooling fish. Sensitive to water quality: polluted water causes the red to fade. Peaceful and ideal in a school.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, low hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a school of 10. Water must be very clean with efficient filtration. Dense planting and moderate lighting. Diet: small live or frozen foods, quality flakes. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid stressful tankmates.

##### [Glowlight tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-erythrozonus)
**Hemigrammus erythrozonus** — Characidae · fish
The glowlight tetra is named for a luminous orange stripe running across its body.
It reaches about 4 cm. Its body is translucent with an iridescent orange stripe from snout to tail. Fins are colorless. A schooling, peaceful and active fish. Less demanding than other tetras. Males are more colorful.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 23–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, low to moderate hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a school of 8. Water can be slightly acidic to neutral. Dense planting and subdued lighting. Diet: flakes, small pellets, brine shrimp. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Very hardy.

##### [January Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-hyanuary)
**Hemigrammus hyanuary** — Characidae · fish
The January Tetra is a small peaceful fish with a silvery body and reddish caudal fin. It lives in schools in the blackwaters of the Amazon.
This tetra reaches about 4 cm in adulthood. Its body is elongated and slightly laterally compressed, with a silvery hue and bluish reflections. The caudal fin has a characteristic orange-red coloration. A faint dark lateral line is sometimes visible. It is very active and swims in tight schools. In the aquarium, it usually stays in the mid-water zone. It is a hardy and easy-to-keep species.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this tetra in a group of at least 6 individuals in a minimum 60-liter tank. Water should be soft and acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15). Ideal temperature is between 23 and 28°C. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting are recommended. Diet is omnivorous: accepts flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Avoid strong currents. Plant the aquarium densely with open swimming areas. It is a peaceful fish compatible with other small tetras, corydoras, and rasboras.

##### [Lueling's Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-luelingi)
**Hemigrammus luelingi** — Characidae · fish
Small peaceful tetra with silvery reflections, ideal for freshwater community aquariums.
Lueling's tetra reaches about 3 to 4 cm. Its body is elongated and silvery with a slight golden hue. It has a characteristic black spot on the dorsal fin. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools. It is very active and peaceful, making it an excellent companion for other small fish. In the aquarium, it appreciates acidic and soft water. Its caudal fin is forked. It is often confused with other Hemigrammus species.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 23 to 28°C and a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. General hardness (GH) should be below 10°d. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a school of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet is omnivorous: accepts flakes, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp. Provide gentle filtration and subdued lighting. Floating plants and leaf litter create a reassuring environment. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates. Breeding in captivity is possible but tricky, requiring very soft and acidic water.

##### [Margined Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-marginatus)
**Hemigrammus marginatus** — Characidae · fish
The Margined Tetra is a small silvery fish with a dark horizontal stripe and transparent fins. It lives in schools in South American freshwaters.
This tetra reaches about 4 cm. Its body is slender, silvery, with a well-defined black stripe from the eye to the caudal base. The fins are hyaline, sometimes slightly tinted yellow. It has a small black spot on the caudal peduncle. It is an active swimmer occupying the mid-water. It is gregarious and requires a group. Its peaceful behavior makes it an excellent community fish.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 6 in a 60-liter tank. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-12), pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 22-28°C. Moderate filtration and subdued lighting are suitable. Omnivorous, accepts dry and frozen foods. Enjoys a planted aquarium with open areas. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly large species. Breeding is possible in a specific tank with soft acidic water.

##### [Head-and-tail-light tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-ocellifer)
**Hemigrammus ocellifer** — Characidae · fish
Small silvery tetra recognizable by its two light spots (eye and tail). Peaceful schooling fish for community tanks.
The head-and-tail-light tetra (Hemigrammus ocellifer) is a small characid reaching up to 5 cm. Its body is silvery with a dark lateral stripe. It has two characteristic reflective spots: one on the eye and one at the base of the caudal fin, hence its name. It is a very peaceful schooling fish, ideal in groups of 6 to 10. It adapts well to various water parameters and enjoys a planted tank.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 L. Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15. Prefers moderate lighting and plants. Diet: flakes, micro pellets, small live foods. Regular water changes. Hardy fish for beginners.

##### [Rummy-nose tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-rhodostomus)
**Hemigrammus rhodostomus** — Characidae · fish
Small peaceful tetra with a bright red nose, very popular in aquariums for its active schooling and distinctive coloration.
The rummy-nose tetra has a slender silver body, a bright red head, and a black-and-white striped tail. It reaches about 5 cm in adulthood. It is a schooling fish that lives in tight groups and becomes shy if kept in small numbers. Its red nose intensifies in well-maintained water and in the presence of conspecifics. It is sensitive to water quality and stress. In the aquarium, it enjoys shaded areas and dense vegetation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 individuals in a minimum 60 L aquarium. Water should be soft and acidic (pH 5.5–7.0, GH 1–8, KH 1–5) with a temperature of 24–28 °C. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting are recommended. The omnivorous diet accepts flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes are essential to maintain the red nose color. This species is sensitive to diseases if parameters fluctuate.

##### [Schmarda's Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-schmardae)
**Hemigrammus schmardae** — Characidae · fish
Schmarda's Tetra is a small silvery fish with a dark stripe and a black caudal spot. It lives in schools in Amazonian blackwaters.
This tetra reaches about 4 cm. Its body is silvery with a dark lateral stripe and a well-marked black spot on the caudal peduncle. The fins are hyaline. It is very similar to Hemigrammus marginatus but the caudal spot is more pronounced. It is an active and gregarious swimmer. It occupies the mid-water and is peaceful. It is appreciated for its hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 6 in a 60-liter tank. Water should be soft and acidic (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-10). Temperature 23-28°C. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting are recommended. Omnivorous, accepts fine foods. Provide a setup with plants, roots, and dead leaves to mimic the natural habitat. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species. Breeding is possible in very soft water.

##### [Ulrey's tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-ulreyi)
**Hemigrammus ulreyi** — Characidae · fish
Small silver tetra with a black lateral stripe and red tail, peaceful and easy to keep in groups.
Ulrey's tetra has a silver body with a thin horizontal black stripe and a bright red tail. It reaches about 5 cm. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups and swims in the middle zone. It is very peaceful and suitable for community aquariums. It resembles the Hyanuary tetra but differs by a thinner stripe and redder tail. It enjoys dense vegetation and moderate lighting. Males are slightly more colorful.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Minimum 60 L aquarium for a group of 6–8. Soft to moderately hard water (pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–15, KH 2–10) at 22–28 °C. Moderate filtration, standard lighting. Omnivorous: flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp. Compatible with most small peaceful fish. Hardy species, but avoid very hard water. Regular weekly water changes of 20%. Can be kept in a species tank or community.

##### [One-lined Tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-unilineatus)
**Hemigrammus unilineatus** — Characidae · fish
The One-lined Tetra is a small silvery fish with a single horizontal black stripe. It schools in South American blackwaters.
This tetra reaches about 4 cm. Its body is elongated, silvery, with a thick, clearly visible black stripe from snout to caudal fin. The fins are transparent. It resembles Hemigrammus marginatus but the stripe is wider and continuous. It is very active and swims in tight schools. It is a peaceful and hardy fish, ideal for community aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 6 in a 60-liter tank. Water should be soft to moderately hard (GH 2-15), pH 5.5-7.5, temperature 22-28°C. Moderate filtration and subdued lighting are suitable. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia. Enjoys a planted aquarium with open swimming areas. Compatible with other small tetras, corydoras, rasboras. Avoid aggressive fish. Breeding is possible in soft acidic water.

##### [Ember tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-amandae)
**Hyphessobrycon amandae** — Characidae · fish
The ember tetra is a small bright orange fish, very popular for nano tanks.
This fish reaches about 2 cm. Its body is entirely orange to reddish, with a slightly darker caudal fin. Very peaceful and schooling. Males are more colorful than females. Active and swims throughout the water column. Its small size makes it an excellent choice for small tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 2cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 23–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, low to moderate hardness. A 30-liter tank is enough for a small school of 6–8. Well-filtered water with gentle flow. Dense planting and shaded areas are appreciated. Diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp nauplii. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid larger species.

##### [Buenos Aires tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-anisitsi)
**Hyphessobrycon anisitsi** — Characidae · fish
Hardy and active tetra, recognizable by its black caudal spot and red fins, but can be a fin-nipper.
The Buenos Aires tetra has a silver body with a black spot on the caudal peduncle and red fins. It reaches up to 7 cm. It is a very active fish that schools throughout the water column. It is generally peaceful but may nip the long fins of slow or sail-finned fish. It is very hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. It enjoys a planted aquarium with swimming space. Males are more colorful than females.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 100 L aquarium for a group of 6–8. Neutral to slightly alkaline water (pH 6.0–8.0, GH 5–20, KH 3–15) at 18–28 °C. Tolerates cooler temperatures than other tetras. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, vegetable matter, worms. Avoid tankmates with long fins (guppies, bettas). Prefer robust, fast fish. Weekly water changes of 25%. Can be kept in outdoor ponds in summer in temperate regions.

##### [Serpae tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-eques)
**Hyphessobrycon eques** — Characidae · fish
Small bright red tetra very popular in aquariums. Peaceful and schooling fish ideal for community tanks.
The Serpae tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques) is a characid from South America. It reaches about 4 cm. Its body is orange-red with a black diamond-shaped spot on the caudal peduncle. Fins are often tinged with red. It is a schooling fish that must be kept in groups of at least 6. Peaceful but may be slightly fin-nippy with long-finned fish. It enjoys a planted tank with subdued lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 L. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15. Provide floating plants to dim the light. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Maintain good filtration and regular water changes. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Bleeding heart tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-erythrostigma)
**Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma** — Characidae · fish
Peaceful tetra with a characteristic heart-shaped red spot near the gills, prized for the elongated dorsal fin in males.
The bleeding heart tetra has a slightly translucent silver body, a bright red heart-shaped spot behind the gill cover, and a tall dorsal fin in males. It reaches 6–7 cm. It is a schooling fish that must live in groups of at least 6. It is active but peaceful, ideal for a softwater community aquarium. Dominant males develop a longer dorsal fin and more intense colors. It enjoys dense vegetation and hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Minimum 80 L aquarium for a group. Soft acidic water (pH 5.5–7.0, GH 1–8, KH 1–5) at 24–28 °C. Moderate filtration, subdued lighting. Omnivorous diet: flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with other small peaceful tetras, corydoras, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. Sensitive to high nitrates, keep NO3 < 20 mg/L. Weekly water changes of 20–30%.

##### [Black neon tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-herbertaxelrodi)
**Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi** — Characidae · fish
The black neon tetra is distinguished by a black stripe and a luminous white stripe along the body.
It reaches about 4 cm. Its body is silvery with a broad black horizontal stripe and a thin iridescent white stripe above. The adipose fin is black. A schooling, peaceful and hardy fish. More tolerant than other neons. Both sexes are similar.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, moderate hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a school of 8–10. Water can be slightly alkaline. Décor with plants and driftwood works. Diet: flakes, fine granules, brine shrimp. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Lemon tetra](/encyclopedia/hyphessobrycon-pulchripinnis)
**Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis** — Characidae · fish
Small bright yellow tetra, peaceful and easy to keep, perfect for planted community aquariums.
The lemon tetra has a bright yellow body with yellow fins edged in black, a black anal fin, and red eyes. It reaches 4–5 cm. It is an active schooling fish that swims in the middle zone. It is very peaceful and can coexist with other small fish. Males are more colorful and slender than females. It enjoys dense vegetation and moderate lighting. Its yellow color intensifies with a varied diet.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 1-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 60 L aquarium for a group of 6–8 individuals. Soft to moderately hard water (pH 5.5–7.5, GH 1–12, KH 1–8) at 23–28 °C. Standard filtration, moderate lighting. Omnivorous: flakes, micro-pellets, live or frozen food. Compatible with most small peaceful fish. Hardy species, but sensitive to ammonia spikes. Regular weekly water changes of 20%. Can be kept in a species tank or community.

##### [Common pleco](/encyclopedia/hypostomus-plecostomus)
**Hypostomus plecostomus** — Loricariidae · fish
The common pleco is a large armored catfish, often sold as a cleaner but reaching an imposing size.
Hypostomus plecostomus can reach 50 cm in aquariums, even larger in the wild. Its body is elongated, covered with bony plates. The sucker mouth is wide. Coloration is dark brown to gray with lighter spots. The fins are large and spiny. It is a nocturnal and territorial fish. It produces a lot of waste. It feeds on algae, wood (necessary for digestion) and detritus. It can become aggressive towards small fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 400L, Size 50cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A very large aquarium (minimum 400 L) is necessary. Water should be well filtered, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, temperature 24-28°C. Moderate current is appreciated. Provide hiding places and especially wood to gnaw. Omnivorous: give vegetables, algae wafers, and meaty foods. Beware of rapid growth. Not suitable for small tanks. Compatible with robust medium to large fish.

##### [L001 Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l001)
**Loricariidae sp. L001** — Loricariidae · fish
A large robust pleco with a dark body and red eyes, often called 'Royal Pleco'.
L001 is a large fish that can reach 40 cm. Its body is massive, gray-brown to black, with characteristic reddish eyes. It has a powerful sucker mouth and odontodes on the opercula. It is a nocturnal and peaceful species, but territorial with conspecifics. It feeds mainly on wood (xylophagous) and algae. Its growth is slow. It is highly valued for its imposing size.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 300L, Size 40cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, KH 2-8. A minimum 300-liter aquarium is necessary. Diet must include driftwood (essential), blanched vegetables and herbivore tablets. Strong water flow is appreciated. Spacious hiding places (caves, large roots) are essential. Compatible with medium to large fish. Avoid very aggressive species. Powerful filtration is required.

##### [Zebra Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l046)
**Loricariidae sp. L046** — Loricariidae · fish
A small black-and-white striped pleco, iconic and threatened, highly sought after by aquarists.
L046 is a small fish (10 cm) with an elongated and flattened body. Its unique coloration consists of vertical black and white bands. It has red eyes and a lyre-shaped caudal fin. It is a nocturnal and shy species, hiding in crevices. It is territorial but not aggressive towards other species. Its reproduction in aquariums is difficult. It is listed as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: EN
Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 2-10, KH 1-5. A minimum 80-liter aquarium is recommended. Diet should be varied: carnivore tablets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and blanched vegetables. Strong water flow is necessary. Narrow hiding places (pipes, rocks) are essential. Sensitive to water quality, requires frequent water changes. Compatible with peaceful small fish. Avoid boisterous species.

##### [Leopard Frog Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l134)
**Loricariidae sp. L134** — Loricariidae · fish
A medium-sized pleco with a spotted pattern reminiscent of a frog, very decorative.
L134 reaches about 12 cm. Its body is stocky and its base color is beige to light brown with large irregular dark spots. It has prominent eyes and a sucker mouth. It is a nocturnal and peaceful species that enjoys hiding places. It is slightly territorial with conspecifics. Its unique pattern makes it very popular. It feeds on algae and small invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-8. A minimum 120-liter aquarium is recommended. Diet should include bottom-dwelling tablets, blanched vegetables and frozen foods. Moderate water flow is appreciated. Hiding places (rocks, roots) are necessary. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species. Well-filtered water is important.

##### [Green Phantom Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l200)
**Loricariidae sp. L200** — Loricariidae · fish
A medium-sized pleco with an olive-green coloration and light spots, very aesthetic.
L200 reaches 15 cm. Its body is elongated and its base color is olive green to brown-green, dotted with small white or yellow spots. Its fins are edged in white. It has red or orange eyes. It is a nocturnal and peaceful species, but territorial with its own kind. It hides in rocky crevices. Its green coloration is unique among Loricariidae. It is sometimes called 'Green Phantom'.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-8. A minimum 150-liter aquarium is recommended. Diet should include herbivore tablets, blanched vegetables and frozen foods. Moderate to strong water flow is appreciated. Hiding places (rocks, caves) are essential. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid aggressive species. Oxygenated and clean water is necessary.

##### [L333 Pleco](/encyclopedia/loricariidae-sp-l333)
**Loricariidae sp. L333** — Loricariidae · fish
Small pleco with a striking black and white pattern. Popular in the hobby for its modest size and peaceful behavior.
Elongated body flattened ventrally, with a sucker mouth. The coloration consists of highly contrasting black and white bands or spots. Nocturnal species that spends the day hidden in caves or under roots. Territorial towards conspecifics but compatible with other peaceful fish. Males develop longer odontodes on the opercles. Breeding is possible in aquariums with suitable caves.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 2-8. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Omnivorous with herbivorous tendencies: algae wafers, blanched vegetables, protein supplements. Enjoys moderate current and well-oxygenated water. Requires hiding places (caves, driftwood). Sensitive to high nitrates (max 20 mg/L). Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive or highly territorial species.

##### [Anduze's Pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-anduzei)
**Nannostomus anduzei** — Characidae · fish
A rare pencilfish in the hobby, with a silvery body, a black stripe, and a red caudal fin. Peaceful and suited for blackwater tanks.
Nannostomus anduzei reaches about 3 cm. Its body is elongated with a horizontal black stripe. The caudal fin is bright red, similar to N. rubrocaudatus but smaller. The dorsal and anal fins are transparent. It lives in schools and is very shy. It prefers acidic, very soft water. In the aquarium, it often hides among plants. It is a delicate species requiring perfectly stable water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-5. Minimum 60-liter tank for a group of 6. Water must be very soft and acidic with gentle filtration. Feed with micro live or frozen foods. Dense plants and roots are essential for hiding spots. Avoid any parameter fluctuations. Compatible with other small blackwater fish.

##### [Beckford's pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-beckfordi)
**Nannostomus beckfordi** — Lebiasinidae · fish
Slender pencilfish with an elongated body, striped black and gold. Peaceful and schooling, ideal for planted nano tanks.
Beckford's pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi) is a small fish of the family Lebiasinidae. It reaches up to 6 cm. Its body is elongated with a horizontal black stripe bordered by yellow or gold. It has a small upward-facing mouth. It is a schooling fish that must be kept in groups of at least 6. Very peaceful and enjoys densely planted tanks with subdued lighting. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 40 L (nano possible). Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-7.0, GH 1-10. Dark substrate, fine plants (Java moss, Cryptocorynes). Diet: micro pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Soft acidic water. Regular but moderate water changes.

##### [Three-lined pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-eques)
**Nannostomus eques** — Characidae · fish
Small elongated fish with three horizontal black lines. Very popular in aquaria for its coloration and peaceful behavior.
Nannostomus eques reaches up to 5 cm. Its body is elongated and fusiform with an upward-facing mouth. It has three distinct horizontal black lines on a silvery to golden background. The caudal fin is reddish. It is a surface-dwelling fish often holding an oblique position. It is schooling and must live in groups. It is active and peaceful, ideal for community aquariums. It can be sensitive to water parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters, well planted with shaded areas. Soft and acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10) at 23-28°C. A lid is recommended. Diet: small insects, worms, brine shrimp, and fine dry food. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid aggressive or large tankmates. Regular water changes to maintain good quality.

##### [Espe's Pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-espei)
**Nannostomus espei** — Characidae · fish
A small pencilfish with a silvery body, a black stripe, and a red spot on the anal fin. Peaceful and ideal for blackwater tanks.
Nannostomus espei reaches 3.5 cm. Its body is fusiform with a median black stripe. A characteristic orange-red spot adorns the anal fin. The fins are usually transparent. It lives in schools and prefers acidic, very soft water. It is an active but shy fish. In the aquarium, it often stays near the surface or mid-water. It is sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-5. Minimum 60-liter tank for a group of 6. Water must be very soft and acidic, ideally with peat extract. Feed with small live or frozen foods. Floating plants and dense vegetation are recommended. Avoid overly large tankmates. Compatible with other blackwater fish like neon tetras and dwarf corydoras.

##### [Harrison's pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-harrisoni)
**Nannostomus harrisoni** — Characidae · fish
Small elongated fish with a horizontal black line and a red spot on the anal fin. Endemic to Guyana.
Nannostomus harrisoni reaches up to 4 cm. Its body is elongated with an upward mouth. It has a thick horizontal black line on the flank, and a bright red spot on the anal fin. The caudal fin is hyaline with red reflections. It is a peaceful, schooling surface-dwelling fish. It is less common in the aquarium trade than other Nannostomus. It prefers soft, acidic water. Its behavior is similar to other pencilfish.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters, well planted with shaded areas. Soft and acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10) at 23-28°C. Diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine dry food. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes. Sensitive to water quality.

##### [Dwarf pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-marginatus)
**Nannostomus marginatus** — Lebiasinidae · fish
The smallest pencilfish, barely 3.5 cm. Body striped black and red, very peaceful, ideal for nano tanks.
The dwarf pencilfish (Nannostomus marginatus) is a tiny fish of the family Lebiasinidae. It reaches only 3.5 cm. Its body is elongated with a horizontal black stripe and a red or golden stripe above. Fins are often transparent with red spots. It is a very shy schooling fish that must be kept in groups of at least 8 to 10. It prefers very soft acidic water typical of blackwater. It feeds on very small foods.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 4.5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Nano tank of at least 30 L. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 4.5-6.5, GH 1-5. Blackwater (peat, catappa leaves). Fine plants, subdued lighting. Diet: infusoria, microworms, brine shrimp nauplii. Very regular water changes with RO water. Delicate fish for experienced aquarists.

##### [Coral red pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-mortenthaleri)
**Nannostomus mortenthaleri** — Characidae · fish
Small elongated fish with a bright red body and a horizontal black line. Highly sought after for its intense color.
Nannostomus mortenthaleri reaches up to 3.5 cm. Its body is elongated with an upward mouth. It is characterized by a bright coral red body with a horizontal black line from snout to caudal fin. The fins are often red. It is a peaceful, schooling surface-dwelling fish. It is endemic to the Rio Nanay in Peru. Its color is more intense in soft, acidic water. It is highly prized by aquarists for its beauty.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3.5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters, planted with floating plants and subdued lighting. Soft and acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10) at 23-28°C. Diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine dry food enriched with carotenoids to maintain color. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes. Sensitive to nitrates.

##### [Red-tailed Pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-rubrocaudatus)
**Nannostomus rubrocaudatus** — Characidae · fish
A small peaceful pencilfish with a bright red tail, perfect for planted and blackwater aquariums.
Nannostomus rubrocaudatus reaches about 3 cm. Its elongated, slender body is typical of pencilfishes. The caudal fin is intense red, contrasting with the silvery body. A thin black horizontal line runs along the flank. It lives in schools and enjoys soft, acidic water. Its behavior is very peaceful, making it an excellent community fish. In the aquarium, it often stays in mid-water and is active.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 3cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep temperature at 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-10. A minimum 60-liter tank is recommended for a group of 6. Water should be well-filtered with moderate flow. Provide a varied diet: micro-worms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine flakes. Floating plants and dense vegetation are appreciated. Avoid overly active or large tankmates. Compatible with other small tetras, rasboras, and corydoras.

##### [Three-banded pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-trifasciatus)
**Nannostomus trifasciatus** — Characidae · fish
Small elongated fish with three horizontal black bands. Similar to N. eques but with broader bands.
Nannostomus trifasciatus reaches up to 4 cm. Its body is elongated with an upward mouth. It has three thick horizontal black bands on a silvery background. The caudal fin is orange-red. It differs from N. eques by broader bands and slightly smaller size. It is a peaceful, schooling surface-dwelling fish. It prefers soft, acidic water. It is often confused with N. eques but can be differentiated by the band pattern.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters, planted with floating plants. Soft and acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10) at 23-28°C. Diet: micro-worms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine dry food. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid strong currents. Weekly water changes. Sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [One-lined Pencilfish](/encyclopedia/nannostomus-unifasciatus)
**Nannostomus unifasciatus** — Characidae · fish
An elegant pencilfish with a single black horizontal stripe. Very peaceful, it thrives in groups in a planted aquarium.
Nannostomus unifasciatus reaches up to 4 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed. A broad black stripe runs from snout to caudal peduncle. The fins are translucent with occasional reddish tint. It swims in schools and occupies the mid-water. It is a shy fish that appreciates hiding spots. In good condition, it may show golden reflections on the back.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 23-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-10. Minimum 60-liter tank for a group of 6. Water should be soft and acidic with gentle filtration. Feed with fine foods: brine shrimp nauplii, micro-worms, crushed flakes. Dense plants and roots are beneficial. Avoid aggressive fish. Compatible with small tetras, rasboras, and corydoras.

##### [Cardinal tetra](/encyclopedia/paracheirodon-axelrodi)
**Paracheirodon axelrodi** — Characidae · fish
The cardinal tetra resembles the neon tetra but its red stripe runs the entire length of the body, making it even more colorful.
The cardinal tetra reaches up to 5 cm. Its red stripe runs from eye to tail, while the blue stripe is shorter. It is hardier than the neon tetra. A schooling, peaceful and very active fish. It prefers acidic and dark waters. In the aquarium, it is sensitive to sudden parameter changes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–30°C, pH 5.0–6.5, very low hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a school of 10. Peat filtration helps maintain acidity. Dim lighting and floating plants are appreciated. Diet: small live or frozen foods, fine flakes. Compatible with other small peaceful characins. Avoid overly active tankmates.

##### [Neon tetra](/encyclopedia/paracheirodon-innesi)
**Paracheirodon innesi** — Characidae · fish
The neon tetra is a small freshwater fish very popular in aquariums, recognizable by its luminous blue and red stripe.
The neon tetra reaches about 3–4 cm. Its body is silvery with an electric blue horizontal stripe from the eye to the adipose fin, and a bright red stripe from the abdomen to the tail. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups. Peaceful and active, it is ideal for community tanks. Males are slightly slimmer than females. During breeding, colors intensify.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–6.5, very low hardness. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a school of 10. Water should be well filtered but with gentle flow. Décor with floating plants and driftwood mimics its biotope. Sensitive to high nitrates. Diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with all small peaceful fish. Avoid large or aggressive species.

##### [Vittata pleco](/encyclopedia/peckoltia-vittata)
**Peckoltia vittata** — Loricariidae · fish
A small striped catfish, perfect for planted aquariums with current.
Peckoltia vittata is a catfish from the Loricariidae family, native to Brazilian rivers. It has an elongated body with dark vertical stripes on a light background. Like other Loricariidae, it has a sucker mouth and feeds mainly on algae and small invertebrates. It is a peaceful and discreet species that appreciates hiding places.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requires well-oxygenated water with moderate to strong flow. A planted aquarium with driftwood and rocks is ideal. Feed with algae, vegetables, and bottom-feeder foods. Sensitive to water quality.

##### [Guppy](/encyclopedia/poecilia-reticulata)
**Poecilia reticulata** — Poeciliidae · fish
The guppy is one of the most popular aquarium fish, known for its ease of breeding and varied colors.
Poecilia reticulata reaches 3-5 cm (male smaller than female). The male is very colorful with varied patterns (caudal, dorsal). The female is larger, gray or olive. It is an ovoviviparous fish: females give birth to live fry. It is very active, swims at the surface and mid-water. It is peaceful and gregarious. There are many cultivated varieties (lyretail, endler guppy, etc.).
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 30 L for a small group. Water can be hard (GH 10-20), pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 24-28°C. A moderate filter. Plants to hide fry. Omnivorous: accepts flakes, pellets, artemia. Very prolific: separate males and females if you don't want breeding. Compatible with most small peaceful fish. Avoid fin-nipping species (barbs, neon tetra).

##### [Endler's Guppy](/encyclopedia/poecilia-wingei)
**Poecilia wingei** — Poeciliidae · fish
The Endler is a small, colorful livebearer perfect for nano tanks. It is easy to keep and breeds quickly.
Poecilia wingei reaches 3-4 cm. Males are highly colored with black, orange, green and blue spots. Females are gray. This fish is active and gregarious. It swims throughout the water column. It is very peaceful and compatible with other small fish. Reproduction is simple: females give birth to live fry every 4-6 weeks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A 40 L tank is enough for a small group. Water can be soft to hard (GH 5-20, KH 5-15), pH 6.5-8.0, temperature 24-28°C. Moderate filtration and dense vegetation are appreciated. Feed flakes, pellets and live foods. Keep a group of at least 3-4 individuals. Avoid aggressive fish. Perform 20% weekly water changes. Fry should be protected from adults.

##### [Giant Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/thoracocharax-securis)
**Thoracocharax securis** — Characidae · fish
The largest hatchetfish, reaching 8 cm, with a silver body and imposing pectoral fin.
Thoracocharax securis grows up to 8 cm. Its body is very deep and compressed, with an extremely developed pectoral fin. It is silver with bluish reflections. It is a schooling fish. It feeds on insects and small fish. In the aquarium, it is peaceful but requires a large swimming space. It jumps easily. Its growth is fast.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
School of at least 6 individuals. Aquarium of at least 100L. Parameters: pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-10, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Tight cover mandatory. Floating plants and open areas. Compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish. Avoid very small species.

##### [Spotted Hatchetfish](/encyclopedia/thoracocharax-stellatus)
**Thoracocharax stellatus** — Characidae · fish
Silver hatchetfish with dark spots, active at the surface and easy to keep in groups.
Thoracocharax stellatus reaches 6 cm. Its body is deep and compressed, with irregular black spots on the flanks. The pectoral fins are large and adapted for gliding. It is a schooling fish. It feeds on insects and small crustaceans. In the aquarium, it is peaceful but can be shy. It prefers slightly acidic water. Its surface swimming is elegant.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
School of 6-8 individuals. Aquarium of at least 80L. Parameters: pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 1-10, temperature 24-28°C. Diet: flakes, small insects, brine shrimp. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Cover required. Floating plants and shaded areas. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Rough filter shrimp](/encyclopedia/atya-scabra)
**Atya scabra** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Freshwater filter-feeding shrimp with a robust, rough body, adapted to fast currents. Feeds by filtering suspended particles.
Atya scabra can reach 5 cm. Its carapace is covered with small spines and granules, hence its name. The anterior legs have highly developed filtering setae. It lives in high-current areas, clinging to rocks. It is a nocturnal species feeding on plankton and organic debris. Reproduction requires a brackish water larval stage. Males are smaller than females. Its peaceful behavior makes it a good inhabitant for a species-specific aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 40 liters with strong current (powerhead). Parameters: temperature 22-28 °C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Diet: powdered food, phytoplankton, micro-particles. Peaceful but may be territorial with conspecifics. Keep in groups of 3 or more. Avoid fish that may compete for food. Regular water changes. Moderate difficulty.

##### [White Ramshorn Snail](/encyclopedia/planorbis-albus)
**Planorbis albus** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
The White Ramshorn Snail is an albino variety of the Ramshorn snail, characterized by its white or translucent shell. It is equally easy to keep and useful for algae control.
The White Ramshorn Snail has a flat spiral shell, white to cream in color, sometimes slightly translucent. Its adult size is about 2 cm. Like other Ramshorns, it is hermaphroditic and can reproduce alone. It moves slowly and feeds mainly on algae and detritus. It is very hardy and adapts to a wide variety of conditions. Its light color makes it easy to spot on dark plants.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 2cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
Same conditions as the Red Ramshorn: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. Minimum tank 10 liters. Diet: algae, blanched vegetables, pellets. Peaceful, compatible with most species. Avoid predators. Rapid reproduction if food is abundant. No specific substrate required.

##### [Red Ramshorn Snail](/encyclopedia/planorbis-rubrum)
**Planorbis rubrum** — Planorbidae · invertebrate
The Red Ramshorn Snail is a small freshwater snail very popular in aquariums, recognizable by its bright red spiral shell. It is easy to keep and helps maintain aquarium balance by consuming algae.
The Red Ramshorn Snail has a flat spiral shell, typical of Planorbidae, with a diameter of 2-3 cm. Its bright red color is due to a genetic mutation. It moves slowly on surfaces and plants. It is a hermaphrodite capable of self-fertilization, which can lead to rapid proliferation. It is mainly active at night. It feeds on algae, detritus, and leftover food. Its presence is beneficial for the aquarium ecosystem.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 2.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: NE
The Red Ramshorn Snail is very easy to keep. It accepts a wide range of parameters: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. A tank of at least 10 liters is sufficient. It feeds on algae, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and fish pellets. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish and shrimp. Avoid fish that may eat it (loaches, cichlids). It can multiply quickly if food is abundant. Population control may be necessary. It does not require a specific substrate.

##### [Montevideo Spike Rush](/encyclopedia/eleocharis-montevidensis)
**Eleocharis montevidensis** — Cyperaceae · plant
A grass-like carpeting plant with fine, upright stems, ideal for background or midground. It forms dense, slender clumps.
Eleocharis montevidensis produces bright green cylindrical stems 20–40 cm tall, with no visible leaves. It spreads via underground stolons and quickly forms an airy lawn. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate to high light and tolerates a wide range of parameters. Its fine stems sway gently with the current, adding natural movement. It is often used to create meadow or background effects. Growth is moderate and it requires little maintenance once established.
Parameters: Temperature 18-26°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Optimal parameters: temperature 18–26°C, pH 6–8, GH 2–15, KH 2–10. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 2 mg/L. Moderate to high light (0.3–0.5 W/L), CO2 optional but beneficial (max 20 mg/L). A nutrient-rich substrate promotes dense growth. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Occasional trimming to control height. Avoid fish that dig up stolons. Can be planted in groups for a fuller effect.

##### [Brazilian micro sword](/encyclopedia/lilaeopsis-brasiliensis)
**Lilaeopsis brasiliensis** — Apiaceae · plant
An elegant carpet plant with fine sword-shaped leaves, perfect for natural aquariums.
Lilaeopsis brasiliensis is a foreground plant that forms a dense lawn via runners. Its bright green, narrow, pointed leaves grow 3-5 cm tall. It prefers moderate to high light and a rich substrate. Growth is slow without CO2 but accelerates with supplementation.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to high light. CO2 recommended. Nutrient-rich substrate. Occasional trimming to prevent matting.

##### [Bolivian aponogeton](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-boiivianus)
**Aponogeton boiivianus** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
Rhizome plant with long wavy leaves, ideal for background. Occasionally flowers in aquarium.
Bolivian aponogeton produces light green ribbon-like leaves, slightly wavy, up to 50 cm. It requires rich substrate and moderate lighting. A winter rest period can stimulate flowering. It is sensitive to iron deficiency.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Plant rhizome in nutrient-rich substrate. Avoid burying completely. Add iron-rich liquid fertilizer. A rest period (temperature drop) can be beneficial.

##### [Amazon sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-amazonicus)
**Echinodorus amazonicus** — Alismataceae · plant
The Amazon sword is a robust and popular plant, ideal for planted aquariums.
This plant forms a rosette of lanceolate, bright green leaves, reaching up to 50 cm. It develops a strong root system. Growth is fast under optimal conditions. It produces emergent flower stalks. In aquariums, it requires moderate to high lighting. It can be used as a background plant. It propagates via stolons and crown division.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Amazon sword is easy to grow. Ideal temperature is 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, with moderate to high lighting. CO2 supplementation improves growth. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. Minimum tank volume is 100 liters. It tolerates soft to moderately hard water. It is compatible with most fish. Propagation is done by dividing offshoots.

##### [Amazon sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-bleheri)
**Echinodorus bleheri** — Alismataceae · plant
The Amazon sword is a large background plant with lance-shaped leaves. Very popular in aquariums for its hardiness.
The leaves are elongated, bright green, up to 50 cm long. The plant develops a strong root system. It produces flower stalks that bear plantlets. Growth is fast under favorable conditions. It can be used as a background or solitary plant. Older leaves yellow and should be removed. It tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15. Moderate to high lighting (0.7 W/L) is beneficial. A nutrient-rich substrate is essential, with root tabs. CO2 addition is not mandatory but improves growth. Requires a large tank (minimum 100 L) due to its size. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Prune damaged leaves at the base.

##### [Heart-leaved sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-cordifolius)
**Echinodorus cordifolius** — Alismataceae · plant
The heart-leaved sword is distinguished by its large heart-shaped leaves.
This plant produces heart-shaped (cordate) leaves, light green, reaching up to 40 cm. It forms a dense rosette. Growth is moderate to fast. It can flower when emersed. In aquariums, it prefers moderate to high lighting. It is larger than the Amazon sword and requires more space. It propagates via stolons.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Heart-leaved sword is a medium to large plant. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, with moderate to high lighting. CO2 addition is beneficial. A nutrient-rich substrate is important. Minimum tank volume: 150 liters. It can be planted in the background. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by dividing stolons.

##### [Osiris sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-osiris)
**Echinodorus osiris** — Alismataceae · plant
The Osiris sword is an elegant plant with reddish leaves, highly prized in aquascaping.
This plant has lanceolate leaves, olive green to reddish, with prominent veins. It reaches 20-40 cm. Growth is moderate. It produces flower stalks with small white flowers. In aquariums, it requires moderate to high lighting to develop its colors. It propagates via stolons. It is sensitive to iron deficiency.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Osiris sword is of medium difficulty. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, with moderate to high lighting. CO2 and fertilizer (iron) supplementation is recommended. A nutrient-rich substrate is important. Minimum tank volume: 80 liters. Can be planted in midground or background. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by dividing stolons.

##### [Ozelot sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-ozelot)
**Echinodorus ozelot** — Alismataceae · plant
Large spotted leaves, very decorative. Easy to grow, suitable for medium to large aquariums.
Echinodorus ozelot is a rosette plant that produces long lanceolate leaves, light green with characteristic brown-red spots. It can reach 30-40 cm in height. It grows quickly and absorbs nitrates well. It sometimes flowers above water. Ideal as a background or midground plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires moderate to high lighting, a nutrient-rich substrate (root tabs recommended). Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Regular pruning to avoid shading.

##### [Small-flowered sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-parviflorus)
**Echinodorus parviflorus** — Alismataceae · plant
The small-flowered sword is a compact plant, ideal for small aquariums.
This plant forms a rosette of lanceolate, dark green leaves, measuring 15-25 cm. Growth is slow to moderate. It produces small white flowers when emersed. In aquariums, it prefers moderate lighting. It is less demanding than other Echinodorus. It propagates via stolons and can form a carpet.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Small-flowered sword is easy to maintain. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, with moderate lighting. CO2 addition is not essential. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. Minimum tank volume: 40 liters. Suitable for foreground or midground. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by dividing stolons.

##### [Dwarf chain sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-tenellus)
**Echinodorus tenellus** — Alismataceae · plant
Dwarf chain sword is a foreground plant that forms a light green lawn. Ideal for nano tanks.
The leaves are linear, 3–10 cm long, soft green. The plant spreads quickly via stolons, creating a continuous carpet. It stays low, not exceeding 15 cm. It can flower when emersed. Growth is fast under good lighting. Often confused with Echinodorus tenellus 'Micro' but larger.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate to high lighting (0.5–0.8 W/L) is needed for a dense carpet. A nutrient-rich substrate promotes growth. CO2 addition is not essential but speeds spread. Tolerates slightly brackish water. Suitable for tanks of 20 L and more. Compatible with shrimp and peaceful fish. Trim stolons to control spread.

##### [Uruguay sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-uruguayensis)
**Echinodorus uruguayensis** — Alismataceae · plant
Slender plant with ribbon-like leaves, perfect for the background. Fast and easy growth.
Echinodorus uruguayensis is characterized by its long, narrow, bright green leaves that can reach 50 cm. It forms a dense rosette and spreads by runners. It is very hardy and adapts to various conditions. Often used to create a hedge effect or fill the background of aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate to high lighting. Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Prune old leaves to stimulate growth.

##### [Amazon frogbit](/encyclopedia/limnobium-laevigatum)
**Limnobium laevigatum** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Amazon frogbit is a floating plant with round, velvety leaves. Highly valued for its decorative look and filtering role.
Leaves are heart-shaped, 2–5 cm, light green, with a velvety texture. Roots hang in the water, thin and long. The plant reproduces via stolons, forming dense colonies. It absorbs nitrates and phosphates, helping tank balance. Can be used to shade low-light areas. Beware of currents that may submerge it.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. No substrate needed. Avoid strong currents. Remove dead leaves regularly. Can be invasive; thin out weekly. Compatible with all fish. Roots provide shelter for fry.

##### [Water lettuce](/encyclopedia/pistia-stratiotes)
**Pistia stratiotes** — Araceae · plant
Water lettuce is a floating plant with velvety rosette leaves. Very decorative and useful for shading the aquarium.
Leaves are spoon-shaped, 5–15 cm, light green, covered with fine hairs making them hydrophobic. Roots are long and feathery, up to 30 cm. The plant reproduces via stolons, producing daughter rosettes. It absorbs nutrients effectively. Can become invasive in warm regions. In aquariums, it needs sufficient surface space.
Parameters: Temperature 22-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–30°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate to high lighting (0.5–0.8 W/L) is beneficial. No substrate. Avoid strong currents. Remove excess rosettes regularly. Roots provide shelter for fry. Beware of snails that may damage leaves. Can be used in outdoor ponds in summer.

##### [Water Spangles](/encyclopedia/salvinia-minima)
**Salvinia minima** — Salviniaceae · plant
Small floating fern with round hairy leaves, very easy to grow.
Salvinia minima forms rosettes of floating leaves 1-2 cm. Leaves are oval, covered with hydrophobic hairs. It has no roots, but modified submerged fronds. It multiplies quickly by division. It provides good cover for fry and reduces nitrates. In aquariums, it can cover the surface if not controlled.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 2cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-15, KH 1-10. Low to moderate lighting (0.3-0.5 W/L). No CO2 needed. Fast growth, remove excess regularly. Compatible with all fish. Minimum tank volume 10 L. Avoid strong currents. Can be used in outdoor ponds in summer.

##### [Bettzick's Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-bettzickiana)
**Alternanthera bettzickiana** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Popular stem plant with reddish leaves, ideal for the background of a planted aquarium.
Alternanthera bettzickiana is an erect stem plant with opposite, lanceolate to ovate leaves, colored green to red depending on lighting. It can reach 30 cm in height. Growth is fast under moderate to high light. It develops adventitious roots along the stem. In aquariums, it forms a dense bush if pruned regularly. Lower leaves may drop if light is insufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-5. Moderate to high lighting (0.5-1 W/L). CO2 injection recommended for optimal growth. Liquid fertilizer and iron-rich substrate enhance red coloration. Regular pruning to prevent legginess. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Minimum tank volume 20 L, but prefers 40 L+.

##### [Figleaf Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-ficoidea)
**Alternanthera ficoidea** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Stem plant with variegated leaves in green, pink and red, very decorative in the aquarium.
Alternanthera ficoidea is distinguished by its elliptic leaves with colorful patterns (green, cream, pink, red). Stems are erect and branched. It reaches 20-30 cm in height. Color is more intense under strong lighting and with iron supplementation. It grows moderately fast and requires regular pruning. Lower leaves may yellow if light is low.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-5. Moderate to high lighting (0.5-1 W/L). CO2 recommended. Iron-rich fertilizer to maintain colors. Regular pruning to encourage branching. Compatible with peaceful fish. Minimum tank volume 20 L. Avoid burrowing fish.

##### [Alligator Weed](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-philoxeroides)
**Alternanthera philoxeroides** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Very hardy and invasive stem plant, used in paludariums or outdoor ponds.
Alternanthera philoxeroides is an aquatic or semi-aquatic plant with hollow, floating stems. Its leaves are opposite, oval, dark green, glossy. It can form dense mats on the surface. In aquariums, it grows quickly and can reach 60 cm. Its flowers are white, globular, in heads. It is known for its invasive nature in warm regions. In controlled cultivation, it is easy to maintain. It tolerates a wide range of conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 18-30°C, pH 6-8.5, GH 3-25
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 50L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Moderate lighting (0.4-0.8 W/L) is sufficient. CO2 not needed. Temperature 18-30°C, pH 6-8.5, GH 3-25, KH 3-20. Nitrates <40 mg/L, phosphates <4 mg/L. Very tolerant of hardness. Fast growth, requires frequent trimming to prevent overgrowth. Suitable for outdoor ponds in summer. Caution: invasive species, do not release into nature. Compatible with most fish. Can be used as a floating plant.

##### [Reineck's Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-reineckii)
**Alternanthera reineckii** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Stem plant with green to bright red leaves, highly prized in aquascaping for its color contrast.
Alternanthera reineckii is an upright stem plant reaching up to 30 cm. Its leaves are opposite, lanceolate, ranging from olive green to intense red depending on lighting. It produces small white flowers in spikes when emersed. In aquariums, it develops a dense root system. Growth is moderate to fast with good CO2 supply. It is often used as a background or midground plant. Red coloration is enhanced by intense light and low nitrates.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
This plant requires moderate to high lighting (0.5-1 W/L) to develop its colors. CO2 supplementation (10-30 mg/L) is recommended for optimal growth. Ideal temperature is 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15, KH 2-10. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L, phosphates 2 mg/L. A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial. Regular pruning promotes branching. It is compatible with most fish and shrimp. Avoid burrowing fish that may uproot the stems.

##### [Dwarf Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-reineckii-mini)
**Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini'** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Dwarf variety of Alternanthera reineckii, ideal for small aquariums and foregrounds.
Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini' is a compact form usually not exceeding 15 cm. Its leaves are smaller and denser than the type species, with a bright red color under intense lighting. It forms a dense bush through abundant branching. Growth is moderate. It is widely used in aquascaping to create carpets or color patches. Stems are fragile and must be handled with care. It rarely flowers underwater.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Strong lighting (0.8-1.2 W/L) is necessary to maintain red color. CO2 (15-30 mg/L) improves growth and compactness. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-12, KH 2-8. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <2 mg/L. An iron-rich substrate is beneficial. Regular pruning to prevent legginess. Suitable for nano tanks (from 20 L). Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Rosanervig Alternanthera](/encyclopedia/alternanthera-reineckii-rosanervig)
**Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosanervig'** — Amaranthaceae · plant
Remarkable variety for its pink veins contrasting with green leaves, highly decorative.
Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosanervig' is distinguished by its bright pink veins on an olive-green to reddish background. Leaves are oval-lanceolate, medium-sized (5-8 cm). The plant reaches 20-25 cm in height. Growth is moderate. It produces sturdy stems and branches well. In aquariums, it requires moderate to high light to maintain vein contrast. Flowers are rare underwater. It is a midground to background plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-14
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 40L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Moderate to high lighting (0.6-1 W/L) to preserve pink veins. CO2 recommended (10-25 mg/L). Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-14, KH 2-10. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <2 mg/L. A nutrient-rich substrate with iron and potassium improves coloration. Regular pruning to encourage branching. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Avoid herbivorous fish like cichlids.

##### [Ludwigia inclinata](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-inclinata)
**Ludwigia inclinata** — Onagraceae · plant
Fine-stemmed plant with light green lanceolate leaves, often used in aquascaping for contrast.
Ludwigia inclinata is a slender stem plant reaching 40-60 cm. Its leaves are opposite, lanceolate, light green to slightly reddish under high light. It produces small yellow flowers at the surface. In aquariums, it grows fast and requires regular trimming. Growth is enhanced by strong lighting and CO2 supplementation. It can be used in the background or midground.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Ideal parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-8, KH 2-5. High lighting (0.5-1 W/L) required for good coloration. CO2 recommended (20-30 mg/L). Easy to moderate difficulty, fast growth. Regular trimming to avoid shading. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Liquid fertilizer and nutrient-rich substrate beneficial. Can be grown outdoors in summer.

##### [Ludwigia sedioides](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-sedioides)
**Ludwigia sedioides** — Onagraceae · plant
Floating or creeping plant with diamond-shaped leaves, very decorative at the surface.
Ludwigia sedioides is an amphibious plant with creeping or floating stems. Its leaves are alternate, rhombic, bright green with red veins. It forms dense mats on the surface. Flowers are yellow, solitary. In aquariums, it can be kept floating or planted in the background. Growth is fast under good light. Frequent trimming is needed to control spread.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-10, KH 2-6. Moderate to high lighting. CO2 optional but beneficial. Easy plant, fast growth. Ideal for open tanks or ponds. Compatible with surface fish. Liquid fertilizer recommended. Can be used as floating plant for shading.

### Amazonian

##### [Cockatoo dwarf cichlid](/encyclopedia/apistogramma-cacatuoides)
**Apistogramma cacatuoides** — Cichlidae · fish
The cockatoo dwarf cichlid is a dwarf cichlid with spectacular fins, especially in males.
Males reach up to 8 cm, females 5 cm. Males have large fan-shaped dorsal and caudal fins with elongated rays. Colors vary from yellow to red, with black spots. Females are smaller and yellow. Territorial but can coexist with other peaceful species. Very interesting to observe.
Parameters: Temperature 25-29°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 25–29°C, pH 5.5–7.0, low hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a pair. Water must be well filtered and stable. Décor with driftwood, oak leaves, and plants. Diet: small live or frozen foods, pellets. Compatible with peaceful tetras. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. The female is very protective of eggs.

##### [Ram cichlid](/encyclopedia/mikrogeophagus-ramirezi)
**Mikrogeophagus ramirezi** — Cichlidae · fish
The ram cichlid is a small, very colorful dwarf cichlid, appreciated for its bright colors and interesting behavior.
It reaches 5–7 cm. Its body is tall and laterally compressed, with colors ranging from blue to yellow, iridescent spots and ornate fins. Males have more pointed dorsal fins. Territorial but generally peaceful. Forms monogamous pairs. Sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 26–30°C, pH 5.5–7.0, very low hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a pair. Water must be very clean and stable. Gentle filtration and regular water changes. Décor with plants, driftwood and hiding spots. Diet: small live or frozen foods, quality pellets. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species.

##### [Angelfish](/encyclopedia/pterophyllum-scalare)
**Pterophyllum scalare** — Cichlidae · fish
The angelfish is an iconic South American cichlid, recognizable by its triangular shape and long fins. It is very popular in the aquarium hobby.
The angelfish has a tall, laterally compressed body with highly developed dorsal and anal fins. Its silvery coloration is crossed by dark vertical bars, but many captive varieties exist (marble, black, veil). It is a calm but territorial fish during breeding. It forms monogamous pairs and spawns on vertical surfaces. Adults can reach 15 cm in height and 20 cm in length.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep angelfish in an aquarium of at least 200 L with significant water height (minimum 50 cm). Water should be acidic (pH 6.0-6.5) and very soft (GH 3-8). Ideal temperature is between 26 and 30°C. Provide a setup with roots, tall plants, and subdued lighting. They are omnivorous: accept flakes, pellets, artemia, and bloodworms. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates; prefer peaceful fish like tetras or corydoras. Efficient filtration is needed, but avoid strong current.

##### [Blue discus](/encyclopedia/symphysodon-aequifasciatus)
**Symphysodon aequifasciatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The blue discus is a South American cichlid renowned for its round shape and bright colors. It is considered the king of the freshwater aquarium.
The blue discus has a disc-shaped, laterally compressed body with long dorsal and anal fins. Its base coloration is electric blue with darker vertical stripes. Many selected varieties exist. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups. It is sensitive to stress and requires impeccable water quality. Adults reach up to 15 cm in diameter.
Parameters: Temperature 28-30°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep discus in groups of at least 5 in a minimum 300 L aquarium. Water must be very acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-4). Ideal temperature is 28-30°C. Weekly 30% water changes are essential. The setup should include roots, robust plants, and a dark substrate. They are carnivorous: feed quality frozen foods (artemia, bloodworms) and specific pellets. Avoid aggressive fish; tetras and corydoras are good tankmates.

##### [Red discus](/encyclopedia/symphysodon-discus)
**Symphysodon discus** — Cichlidae · fish
The red discus is a colorful variant of the discus, highly prized for its intense red coloration. It shares the same requirements as the blue discus.
The red discus has a disc-shaped, compressed body with extended dorsal and anal fins. Its color ranges from bright red to orange, often with iridescent blue spots. It is a schooling and peaceful fish, but very sensitive to water quality. It can reach up to 15 cm in diameter. In the aquarium, it requires constant attention.
Parameters: Temperature 28-30°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Requirements are identical to those of the blue discus: minimum 300 L aquarium, group of 5, very acidic water (pH 5.5-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-4), temperature 28-30°C. Frequent water changes are crucial. The setup should provide hiding places and subdued lighting. Diet must be varied and protein-rich. Avoid boisterous fish. Breeding is possible but delicate.

##### [Bristlenose pleco](/encyclopedia/ancistrus-cirrhosus)
**Ancistrus cirrhosus** — Loricariidae · fish
The bristlenose pleco is an armored catfish known for its nasal tentacles in males, very effective at cleaning algae.
Ancistrus cirrhosus reaches 12-15 cm. Its body is ventrally flattened, covered with bony plates. The mouth is a sucker. Adult males develop fleshy tentacles on the snout. Coloration is brown to olive with light spots. The fins are broad. It is a nocturnal and territorial fish towards its own kind. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm. It is very hardy and suitable for community aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 L is recommended. Water should be well oxygenated, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, temperature 24-28°C. Moderate current is appreciated. Provide hiding places (rocks, roots, pipes). Omnivorous with herbivorous tendency: give blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber), algae wafers, and some protein. Avoid overstocking. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Males may fight.

##### [Bronze corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-aeneus)
**Corydoras aeneus** — Callichthyidae · fish
Small armored catfish, very popular for cleaning the bottom. Peaceful and gregarious.
Bronze corydoras grows 6-7 cm. Its body is stocky, covered with bony plates (armor). Coloration is bronze to metallic green on the back, lighter on the belly. It has sensory barbels around the mouth. It is a gregarious bottom fish that lives in groups. It is very active and sifts through the substrate for food. It is known for its hardiness.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium for a group of 5-6 individuals. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A fine sand substrate is essential to avoid damaging barbels. A setup with hiding spots and moderate current is appreciated. Omnivorous, accepts bottom tablets, worms, and flakes. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly large species.

##### [Sterba's corydoras](/encyclopedia/corydoras-sterbai)
**Corydoras sterbai** — Callichthyidae · fish
Sterba's corydoras is a small armored catfish very popular in aquariums, recognizable by its black spots on a light background.
Corydoras sterbai grows up to 6 cm. Its body is stocky, covered with bony plates. The base color is beige to light orange with irregular black spots. The fins are translucent with black stripes. It has sensory barbels around the mouth. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in schools. It can breathe atmospheric air through its vascularized intestine. Its substrate-sifting behavior is typical of Corydoras.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 5 individuals in a tank of at least 80 L. Water should be soft (GH 3-8), acidic (pH 6.0-6.5) and at a temperature of 24-28°C. A fine sand substrate is essential to protect their barbels. Provide hiding places (roots, plants). They are omnivorous: accept pellets, tablets, bloodworms, artemia. Avoid strong currents. Sensitive to nitrates, keep NO3 < 10 mg/L. Compatible with most small peaceful fish.

##### [Rummy-nose tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-bleheri)
**Hemigrammus bleheri** — Characidae · fish
The rummy-nose tetra is recognizable by its bright red head and black-and-white striped tail.
It reaches about 5 cm. The head is red, the body silvery, and the caudal fin has black and white bands. A very active schooling fish. Sensitive to water quality: polluted water causes the red to fade. Peaceful and ideal in a school.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, low hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a school of 10. Water must be very clean with efficient filtration. Dense planting and moderate lighting. Diet: small live or frozen foods, quality flakes. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid stressful tankmates.

##### [Glowlight tetra](/encyclopedia/hemigrammus-erythrozonus)
**Hemigrammus erythrozonus** — Characidae · fish
The glowlight tetra is named for a luminous orange stripe running across its body.
It reaches about 4 cm. Its body is translucent with an iridescent orange stripe from snout to tail. Fins are colorless. A schooling, peaceful and active fish. Less demanding than other tetras. Males are more colorful.
Parameters: Temperature 23-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 23–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, low to moderate hardness. A minimum 60-liter tank for a school of 8. Water can be slightly acidic to neutral. Dense planting and subdued lighting. Diet: flakes, small pellets, brine shrimp. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Very hardy.

##### [Common pleco](/encyclopedia/hypostomus-plecostomus)
**Hypostomus plecostomus** — Loricariidae · fish
The common pleco is a large armored catfish, often sold as a cleaner but reaching an imposing size.
Hypostomus plecostomus can reach 50 cm in aquariums, even larger in the wild. Its body is elongated, covered with bony plates. The sucker mouth is wide. Coloration is dark brown to gray with lighter spots. The fins are large and spiny. It is a nocturnal and territorial fish. It produces a lot of waste. It feeds on algae, wood (necessary for digestion) and detritus. It can become aggressive towards small fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 400L, Size 50cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A very large aquarium (minimum 400 L) is necessary. Water should be well filtered, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15, temperature 24-28°C. Moderate current is appreciated. Provide hiding places and especially wood to gnaw. Omnivorous: give vegetables, algae wafers, and meaty foods. Beware of rapid growth. Not suitable for small tanks. Compatible with robust medium to large fish.

##### [Cardinal tetra](/encyclopedia/paracheirodon-axelrodi)
**Paracheirodon axelrodi** — Characidae · fish
The cardinal tetra resembles the neon tetra but its red stripe runs the entire length of the body, making it even more colorful.
The cardinal tetra reaches up to 5 cm. Its red stripe runs from eye to tail, while the blue stripe is shorter. It is hardier than the neon tetra. A schooling, peaceful and very active fish. It prefers acidic and dark waters. In the aquarium, it is sensitive to sudden parameter changes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-30°C, pH 5-6.5, GH 1-4
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–30°C, pH 5.0–6.5, very low hardness. A minimum 80-liter tank for a school of 10. Peat filtration helps maintain acidity. Dim lighting and floating plants are appreciated. Diet: small live or frozen foods, fine flakes. Compatible with other small peaceful characins. Avoid overly active tankmates.

##### [Neon tetra](/encyclopedia/paracheirodon-innesi)
**Paracheirodon innesi** — Characidae · fish
The neon tetra is a small freshwater fish very popular in aquariums, recognizable by its luminous blue and red stripe.
The neon tetra reaches about 3–4 cm. Its body is silvery with an electric blue horizontal stripe from the eye to the adipose fin, and a bright red stripe from the abdomen to the tail. It is a schooling fish that lives in groups. Peaceful and active, it is ideal for community tanks. Males are slightly slimmer than females. During breeding, colors intensify.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–6.5, very low hardness. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a school of 10. Water should be well filtered but with gentle flow. Décor with floating plants and driftwood mimics its biotope. Sensitive to high nitrates. Diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with all small peaceful fish. Avoid large or aggressive species.

##### [Guppy](/encyclopedia/poecilia-reticulata)
**Poecilia reticulata** — Poeciliidae · fish
The guppy is one of the most popular aquarium fish, known for its ease of breeding and varied colors.
Poecilia reticulata reaches 3-5 cm (male smaller than female). The male is very colorful with varied patterns (caudal, dorsal). The female is larger, gray or olive. It is an ovoviviparous fish: females give birth to live fry. It is very active, swims at the surface and mid-water. It is peaceful and gregarious. There are many cultivated varieties (lyretail, endler guppy, etc.).
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 30 L for a small group. Water can be hard (GH 10-20), pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 24-28°C. A moderate filter. Plants to hide fry. Omnivorous: accepts flakes, pellets, artemia. Very prolific: separate males and females if you don't want breeding. Compatible with most small peaceful fish. Avoid fin-nipping species (barbs, neon tetra).

##### [Bolivian aponogeton](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-boiivianus)
**Aponogeton boiivianus** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
Rhizome plant with long wavy leaves, ideal for background. Occasionally flowers in aquarium.
Bolivian aponogeton produces light green ribbon-like leaves, slightly wavy, up to 50 cm. It requires rich substrate and moderate lighting. A winter rest period can stimulate flowering. It is sensitive to iron deficiency.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Plant rhizome in nutrient-rich substrate. Avoid burying completely. Add iron-rich liquid fertilizer. A rest period (temperature drop) can be beneficial.

##### [Amazon sword](/encyclopedia/echinodorus-bleheri)
**Echinodorus bleheri** — Alismataceae · plant
The Amazon sword is a large background plant with lance-shaped leaves. Very popular in aquariums for its hardiness.
The leaves are elongated, bright green, up to 50 cm long. The plant develops a strong root system. It produces flower stalks that bear plantlets. Growth is fast under favorable conditions. It can be used as a background or solitary plant. Older leaves yellow and should be removed. It tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15. Moderate to high lighting (0.7 W/L) is beneficial. A nutrient-rich substrate is essential, with root tabs. CO2 addition is not mandatory but improves growth. Requires a large tank (minimum 100 L) due to its size. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Prune damaged leaves at the base.

##### [Amazon frogbit](/encyclopedia/limnobium-laevigatum)
**Limnobium laevigatum** — Hydrocharitaceae · plant
Amazon frogbit is a floating plant with round, velvety leaves. Highly valued for its decorative look and filtering role.
Leaves are heart-shaped, 2–5 cm, light green, with a velvety texture. Roots hang in the water, thin and long. The plant reproduces via stolons, forming dense colonies. It absorbs nitrates and phosphates, helping tank balance. Can be used to shade low-light areas. Beware of currents that may submerge it.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. No substrate needed. Avoid strong currents. Remove dead leaves regularly. Can be invasive; thin out weekly. Compatible with all fish. Roots provide shelter for fry.

### Lake Malawi

##### [Golden Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-aureum)
**Aulonocara aureum** — Cichlidae · fish
A peacock cichlid with a golden body, highly prized in the hobby for its beauty and relatively mild temperament.
Aulonocara aureum reaches about 13 cm. Males are bright golden yellow with blue reflections on the head and fins. Females are gray-brown. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed. It is a calm fish that spends time sifting through sand. It is territorial but can coexist with other peaceful Malawi species. It forms harems. In the aquarium, it is often kept with other Aulonocara or bottom-dwelling fish.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-15. A minimum 200-liter tank for a group. Sandy substrate, rocks, and hiding places. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid aggressive Mbunas. Compatible with other Aulonocara, Synodontis, peaceful fish. Regular water changes. Breeding by mouthbrooding; the female holds the eggs for 3 weeks.

##### [Baensch's Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-baenschi)
**Aulonocara baenschi** — Cichlidae · fish
A brightly colored peacock cichlid, appreciated for its peaceful behavior and blue-yellow iridescence.
Baensch's Peacock reaches up to 12 cm. Males display metallic blue with yellow highlights on the dorsal fin. Females are grey-brown. It is a mouthbrooder. In the wild it lives in harems. Its behavior is relatively calm compared to mbunas. It prefers rocky areas with hiding spots. Breeding is easy in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in a tank of at least 200 liters for a group. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with other non-aggressive Malawi cichlids. Avoid overly active mbunas. Provide rocks and sandy substrate. Weekly water changes of 20%.

##### [Hans Baensch's Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-hansbaenschi)
**Aulonocara hansbaenschi** — Cichlidae · fish
A peacock with orange and blue colors, very close to Aulonocara baenschi but with distinct shades.
This cichlid reaches 13 cm. Males have a blue head and an orange to reddish body. Females are dull. It is a mouthbrooder and forms harems. It is more territorial than some other peacocks. It lives in shallow rocky areas. Its diet is carnivorous. Breeding is similar to other Aulonocara.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 250L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 250 liter tank for a group. Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20, phosphates <0.5. Varied diet: pellets, brine shrimp, krill. Compatible with other Malawi cichlids of similar size. Avoid overly aggressive species. Provide rocks and hiding spots. Regular water changes.

##### [Jacob's Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-jacobfreibergi)
**Aulonocara jacobfreibergi** — Cichlidae · fish
A colorful African cichlid, appreciated for its bright hues and interesting behavior. It is relatively peaceful for a Malawi cichlid.
Aulonocara jacobfreibergi reaches up to 15 cm. Males display spectacular coloration: blue head, yellow-orange body with metallic reflections. Females are gray-brown. It is a bottom-dwelling fish that sifts through sand for food. It is territorial but less aggressive than other Malawi cichlids. It forms harems with one dominant male and several females. In the aquarium, it can coexist with other Aulonocara or peaceful cichlids of similar size.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-15. A minimum 200-liter tank for a group. Sandy substrate, rocks, and hiding places. Carnivorous diet: African cichlid pellets, brine shrimp, krill. Avoid overly aggressive tankmates like Mbunas. Compatible with other Aulonocara, Synodontis, or peaceful Malawi fish. Weekly water changes of 20-30%. Breeding is possible in the aquarium; the female mouthbroods the eggs for 3 weeks.

##### [Eureka Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-jacobfreibergi-eureka)
**Aulonocara jacobfreibergi 'Eureka'** — Cichlidae · fish
A remarkable peacock with electric blue coloration and elongated fins, highly prized in aquaristics.
The Eureka Peacock can reach 15 cm. Males are bright blue with metallic reflections, females are grey. It has pointed dorsal and anal fins. It is a mouthbrooder. It is calmer than mbunas but can be territorial towards conspecifics. It prefers clear, well-oxygenated water. Breeding is possible in an aquarium with a harem.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 300 liter tank for a group. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20, phosphates <0.5. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with other peacocks and non-aggressive Malawi cichlids. Avoid overly active fish. Provide rocks and open swimming areas. Weekly water changes of 20%.

##### [Malawi Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-malawi)
**Aulonocara malawi** — Cichlidae · fish
A peacock cichlid with variable colors, often blue and yellow, suitable for Malawi community aquariums.
The Malawi Peacock reaches 12-14 cm. Males show blue coloration with yellow on the dorsal fin. Females are grey-brown. It is a mouthbrooder. It is less territorial than other Aulonocara. It lives in harems in rocky areas. Its diet is carnivorous. It is appreciated for its hardiness and ease of adaptation.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 200 liter tank for a group. Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20, phosphates <0.5. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Avoid aggressive mbunas. Provide rocks and sandy substrate. Regular water changes.

##### [Nyassa Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-nyassae)
**Aulonocara nyassae** — Cichlidae · fish
The type species of the genus Aulonocara, with an elongated body and bluish reflections, ideal for biotope aquariums.
The Nyassa Peacock reaches 14 cm. Males are silver-blue with yellow fins. Females are grey. It is a mouthbrooder. It is relatively peaceful but can be territorial during breeding. It lives in harems in rocky areas. Its diet is carnivorous. It is less colorful than other peacocks but very hardy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 250L, Size 14cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum 250 liter tank for a group. Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Nitrates <20, phosphates <0.5. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Compatible with other Malawi cichlids. Avoid overly aggressive species. Provide rocks and hiding spots. Weekly water changes.

##### [Stuartgranti peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti** — Cichlidae · fish
A colorful African cichlid prized for its bright blue and yellow hues. It is relatively peaceful for a Malawi cichlid.
Aulonocara stuartgranti, commonly known as Stuartgranti peacock, is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. Males display a brilliant coloration combining metallic blue, golden yellow, and sometimes orange-red, while females are duller, gray-brown. This fish reaches a size of 12-15 cm. It inhabits rocky areas where it feeds on small invertebrates and plankton. In the aquarium, it requires hard, alkaline water typical of the African rift lakes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain hard water (GH 10-20, KH 8-12) with a pH of 7.8-8.6 and temperature 24-28°C. A tank of at least 200 liters is recommended with rocks and hiding places. Perform 20-30% weekly water changes. Feed with African cichlid pellets, supplemented with brine shrimp or bloodworms. Avoid overly aggressive tankmates.

##### [Benga Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-benga)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Benga'** — Cichlidae · fish
Bright blue peacock cichlid with yellow dorsal fin. Male very colorful, female dull. Peaceful species.
The Benga Peacock is a variety of Aulonocara stuartgranti characterized by intense blue on the body and a bright yellow dorsal fin. Males may have orange highlights on the face. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. Adult size 12 cm. It is a calm cichlid, suitable for Malawi community aquariums. It feeds on small invertebrates and prepared foods. Reproduction is mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 liters, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12, temperature 24-28°C. Rocky decor with sand. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Feed pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Weekly water changes 20-30%. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Breeding possible in species tank.

##### [Chilumba Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-chilumba)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Chilumba'** — Cichlidae · fish
Blue and yellow peacock cichlid, male very colorful. Chilumba variant. Peaceful species.
The Chilumba Peacock is a variety of Aulonocara stuartgranti from the Chilumba area. Adult males have a metallic blue body with a bright yellow dorsal fin and orange highlights. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. Adult size 12 cm. It is a calm cichlid, ideal for a Malawi community tank. It feeds on small invertebrates and prepared foods. Reproduction is mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 liters, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12, temperature 24-28°C. Rocky decor with sand. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Feed pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Weekly water changes 20-30%. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Breeding possible in species tank.

##### [Chitande Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-chitande)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Chitande'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Chitande Peacock is a blue cichlid with a yellow-orange dorsal fin and a yellow edge on the anal fin. It is appreciated for its elegance.
Males are blue with a yellow-orange dorsal fin and a blue anal fin edged in yellow. Females are gray. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It lives in clear, rocky waters. Males are territorial but peaceful towards other species. The blue color is more intense in dominant males. It grows up to 13 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Identical parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Minimum 200L tank. Carnivorous diet. Compatible with other peacocks and haps. Keep a harem. Weekly water changes. Breeding is easy. Fry grow quickly with appropriate feeding.

##### [Makonde Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-makonde)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Makonde'** — Cichlidae · fish
Blue and yellow peacock cichlid, male very colorful. Makonde variant. Peaceful species.
The Makonde Peacock is a variety of Aulonocara stuartgranti from the Makonde area. Adult males have a metallic blue body with a bright yellow dorsal fin and orange highlights. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. Adult size 12 cm. It is a calm cichlid, ideal for a Malawi community tank. It feeds on small invertebrates and prepared foods. Reproduction is mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 liters, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12, temperature 24-28°C. Rocky decor with sand. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Feed pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Weekly water changes 20-30%. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Breeding possible in species tank.

##### [Maleri Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-maleri)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Maleri'** — Cichlidae · fish
Vibrant peacock cichlid, male blue and yellow. Peaceful and popular in the hobby.
The Maleri Peacock is a geographical variant of Aulonocara stuartgranti. Adult males display a bright electric blue body with a vivid yellow dorsal fin and orange highlights on the face. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. This species reaches about 12 cm. It is relatively peaceful compared to mbunas, but males can be territorial during breeding. Its diet is mainly carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates in the wild. In aquaria, it accepts pellets and frozen foods. Breeding is possible in a species tank, with the female mouthbrooding the eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in an aquarium of at least 200 liters with pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Ideal temperature 24-28°C. A rocky setup with hiding places and a sand substrate is recommended. Peaceful species, compatible with other non-aggressive Malawi cichlids. Avoid overly active or very small tankmates. Feed with quality pellets, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Perform weekly water changes of 20-30%. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L, phosphates 0.5 mg/L. Breeding is possible in a species tank with one male and several females.

##### [Maulana Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-maulana)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Maulana'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Maulana Peacock is a stunning cichlid from Lake Malawi, known for its vibrant blue and yellow coloration. It is a popular choice for aquarists due to its relatively peaceful nature.
Males display a brilliant blue body with a yellow-orange dorsal and anal fin, while females are dull brown. This species is a maternal mouthbrooder. It prefers rocky habitats where it feeds on small invertebrates. Males are territorial but less aggressive than mbunas. Coloration intensifies during courtship. In aquariums, they can reach up to 15 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. A minimum tank size of 200 liters is recommended for a group. They are carnivorous: feed high-quality cichlid pellets and frozen foods like brine shrimp. Avoid aggressive mbunas; they do well with other peacocks and haps. Keep females in a harem with one male. Weekly 20% water changes are essential. Breeding is possible in captivity; the female holds eggs in her mouth for about 3 weeks.

##### [Mbenji Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-mbenji)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Mbenji'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Mbenji Peacock is a blue cichlid with a yellow-orange dorsal fin and yellow spots on the anal fin. It is prized for its unique pattern.
Males have a blue body, a yellow-orange dorsal fin, and a blue anal fin with yellow spots. Females are brownish. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It inhabits rocky and sandy areas. Males are moderately territorial. Coloration becomes brighter during breeding. It reaches about 14 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 14cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Standard parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Minimum 200L tank. Carnivorous diet. Compatible with other peacocks and haps. Keep a harem. Regular water changes. Breeding similar to other Aulonocara. Fry are easy to raise with fine foods.

##### [Mbenji Island Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-mbenji-island)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Mbenji Island'** — Cichlidae · fish
A colorful peacock cichlid endemic to Mbenji Island in Lake Malawi. Males display bright blue and yellow hues.
This peacock has an elongated, laterally compressed body typical of Aulonocara. Adult males display a metallic blue head, golden yellow back, and bluish anal fin. Females are gray-brown with silvery reflections. It is relatively peaceful compared to mbunas, but males can be territorial during breeding. It spends time sifting through sand in search of food. It is a maternal mouthbrooder.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 200L tank is recommended for a group. Provide fine sand substrate and rocky hiding places. Diet should be carnivorous: high-quality pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid nitrate buildup (max 20 mg/L). Males are polygamous; a harem of 1 male to 3-4 females is ideal. Avoid overly aggressive or very small tankmates. Regular water changes are essential.

##### [Ngara Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-ngara)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Ngara'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Ngara Peacock is a bright blue cichlid with a yellow-orange dorsal fin. It is highly sought after for its vivid colors and peaceful nature.
Males are predominantly blue with a yellow-orange dorsal fin and a blue anal fin. Females are dull gray-brown. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It lives in rocky areas of Lake Malawi. Males are territorial but not aggressive towards other peaceful species. The blue color intensifies with age and dominance. It grows up to 13 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 13cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water conditions identical: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Minimum 200L tank. Carnivorous diet. Compatible with other peacocks and haps. Keep a harem. Weekly water changes. Breeding is easy if parameters are stable. Fry can be fed with baby brine shrimp.

##### [Nkhata Bay Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-nkhata-bay)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Nkhata Bay'** — Cichlidae · fish
Geographic variant of Stuart Grant's peacock, with males displaying a characteristic blue and orange coloration. Endemic to Nkhata Bay.
This peacock is distinguished by its coloration: bright blue head and back, orange to reddish flanks, bluish dorsal and anal fins. Females are gray with silvery reflections. It reaches up to 14 cm. Its behavior is similar to other Aulonocara: it sifts sand and is a mouthbrooder. Males are territorial but less aggressive than mbunas. It prefers clear, well-oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 14cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters identical to other peacocks: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 200L tank is advised. Substrate should be sandy to allow sifting. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Keep a harem of 1 male to 3-4 females. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L. Strong filtration is recommended.

##### [Nkhomo Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-nkhomo)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Nkhomo'** — Cichlidae · fish
Peacock cichlid with blue and orange hues. Male very colorful, female dull. Calm species.
The Nkhomo Peacock is a variant of Aulonocara stuartgranti from Nkhomo Reef. Adult males have a metallic blue body with a broad orange band on the dorsal fin and yellow highlights. Females are grey-brown with vertical bars. Adult size about 12 cm. It is a relatively peaceful cichlid, ideal for a Malawi community tank. It feeds on small invertebrates and accepts prepared foods. Reproduction is mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 liters, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12, temperature 24-28°C. Rocky decor with sand. Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids. Feed pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Weekly water changes 20-30%. Nitrates <20 mg/L, phosphates <0.5 mg/L. Breeding possible in species tank.

##### [Usisya Peacock](/encyclopedia/aulonocara-stuartgranti-usisya)
**Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Usisya'** — Cichlidae · fish
The Usisya Peacock is a colorful cichlid from Lake Malawi, with a blue head and body and a yellow-orange belly. It is valued for its beauty and peaceful demeanor.
Males have a blue head and body, a yellow-orange belly, and yellow dorsal and anal fins. Females are gray-brown. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It inhabits shallow rocky areas. Males defend a territory but are less aggressive than mbunas. Coloration intensifies during breeding. It reaches about 12 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters identical to other peacocks: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. Minimum 200L tank for a group. Carnivorous diet: cichlid pellets and frozen foods. Compatible with other peacocks and haps, avoid aggressive mbunas. Keep a harem (1 male to 3-4 females). Regular water changes. Breeding similar to other Aulonocara.

##### [Borleyi](/encyclopedia/haplochromis-borleyi)
**Haplochromis borleyi** — Cichlidae · fish
Haplochromis borleyi is a peaceful cichlid from Lake Malawi, known for its striking red fins and blue body. It is a popular aquarium fish due to its vibrant colors and relatively easy care.
Haplochromis borleyi exhibits a slender, elongated body with a blueish-silver base color. Males develop intense red coloration on the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, while females are more subdued. They are open-water swimmers, often found in intermediate zones of the lake. This species is a maternal mouthbrooder, with females carrying eggs and fry in their mouths. They are generally peaceful but can be territorial during breeding. Their diet consists of small invertebrates and algae. They are known for their active swimming behavior and add movement to the aquarium.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Haplochromis borleyi requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of open swimming space. Water parameters should be maintained at pH 7.5-8.5, temperature 24-28°C, GH 10-20, KH 8-12. They are omnivorous and accept high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Regular water changes are essential to keep nitrate levels below 20 ppm. They can be kept with other peaceful Malawi cichlids of similar size. Avoid aggressive species. Provide rockwork and hiding places but leave open areas. They are sensitive to poor water quality. A sandy substrate is recommended.

##### [Yellow lab cichlid](/encyclopedia/labidochromis-caeruleus)
**Labidochromis caeruleus** — Cichlidae · fish
A small bright yellow cichlid, very popular in the hobby for its color and peaceful temperament. It is a mouthbrooder.
Labidochromis caeruleus, also known as the yellow lab cichlid, is a dwarf cichlid from Lake Malawi. Its bright lemon-yellow color, sometimes with blue highlights on the fins, makes it a favorite. Males are slightly larger and more colorful than females. It reaches 8-10 cm. In the wild, it feeds on benthic invertebrates. In the aquarium, it is hardy and adapts well to typical Malawi conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Hard alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20, KH 8-12) at 24-28°C. A minimum 100-liter tank with rocks and sand. Perform 20% weekly water changes. Feed with cichlid pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. It is a peaceful fish that can coexist with other non-aggressive Mbunas or Haplochromis.

##### [Zebra mbuna](/encyclopedia/maylandia-zebra)
**Maylandia zebra** — Cichlidae · fish
The zebra mbuna is a popular mbuna, recognizable by its blue and black vertical stripes. It is an active and territorial fish.
The body of Maylandia zebra is elongated and laterally compressed, with a light blue base color striped with black vertical bars. Males are more colorful than females. It is aggressive towards conspecifics, especially during breeding. It can reach 12 cm. It is a mouthbrooder: the female holds eggs in her mouth.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this mbuna in a minimum 200 L aquarium with plenty of rocks to create territories. Water should be alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5) and hard (GH 10-20). Temperature 24-28°C. They are herbivorous with omnivorous tendencies: feed spirulina-based foods and blanched vegetables. Avoid high-protein animal foods. A group of one male with several females is recommended. Watch out for fights.

##### [Pseudotropheus acei](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-acei)
**Pseudotropheus acei** — Cichlidae · fish
An elongated mbuna, recognizable by its bright yellow tail and blue-purple body. Relatively peaceful for a mbuna.
Pseudotropheus acei has an elongated, slightly compressed body. Adult males are blue-purple with a bright yellow caudal fin; females are duller, gray-brown with a pale yellow tail. It reaches up to 10 cm. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. In the wild, it feeds mainly on algae and plankton. In the aquarium, it is less aggressive than other mbunas, but males can be territorial. It lives in hierarchical groups.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 200L tank is needed for a group of 5. Provide rocks to form hiding places and territories. Diet should be herbivorous: spirulina, blanched vegetables, algae-based pellets. Avoid excess animal protein. Males can be aggressive towards each other; a group with several females is recommended. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Weekly water changes.

##### [Pseudotropheus cyaneorhabdos](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-cyaneorhabdos)
**Pseudotropheus cyaneorhabdos** — Cichlidae · fish
A small mbuna with an elongated body, bright blue with a horizontal black stripe. Very active and territorial.
Pseudotropheus cyaneorhabdos has an elongated, fusiform body. Males are electric blue with a longitudinal black stripe on the flank; females are gray-blue with a less visible stripe. It reaches up to 8 cm. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It feeds on algae and micro-invertebrates. It is one of the most aggressive mbunas for its size, requiring a spacious tank with many hiding places. It lives in groups with a strict hierarchy.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 300L tank is advised for a group of 6-8. The setup should be very rocky with many crevices. Herbivorous diet: spirulina, algae, vegetable pellets. Avoid meaty foods. Males are very territorial; a group with a single male or a ratio of 1 male to 4-5 females is best. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Frequent water changes.

##### [Demasoni cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-demasoni)
**Pseudotropheus demasoni** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus demasoni is a small, brightly colored mbuna cichlid popular in the aquarium trade for its blue and black stripes. It is endemic to Lake Malawi.
This fish reaches about 7–8 cm in adulthood. Males display vivid blue and black vertical stripes, while females are duller. It has an elongated body and a downward-facing mouth, typical of mbunas. Its behavior is territorial and aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It lives in hierarchical groups in rocky areas. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: VU
Keep temperature between 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, and GH 10–20. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended for a group. Diet should be mainly vegetable-based (spirulina, vegetables) with few animal proteins. Avoid keeping with very peaceful or small fish. Rocky hiding places are essential to reduce aggression. Perform regular water changes (20% weekly).

##### [Elongate mbuna](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-elongatus)
**Pseudotropheus elongatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The elongate mbuna is a mbuna with an elongated body, often blue or yellow in color. It is territorial and active.
Pseudotropheus elongatus has a more elongated body than other mbunas, with a low dorsal fin. Its coloration varies from dark blue to yellow with vertical bars. Dominant males are more vivid. It reaches up to 10 cm. It is an aggressive fish, especially towards similar species. It is a mouthbrooder.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 200 L with plenty of rocks and hiding places. Alkaline water (pH 7.5-8.5), hard (GH 10-20), temperature 24-28°C. Herbivorous diet: spirulina, vegetables, vegetable pellets. Avoid animal proteins. Keep a group with one male to several females to dilute aggression. Compatible with other robust mbunas.

##### [Pursus cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-pursus)
**Pseudotropheus pursus** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus pursus is a little-known mbuna endemic to Lake Malawi. It resembles other species of the genus in morphology and behavior.
This species reaches about 8–10 cm. Males are generally light blue with dark vertical bars, females are brownish. Its body is elongated and mouth downward-facing. It is territorial and aggressive, like most mbunas. It feeds on algae and biofilm on rocks. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding. Little information is available on its precise ecology.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: DD
Water parameters similar to other mbunas: 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 120-liter tank is recommended. Herbivorous diet based on spirulina and vegetables. Aggressive behavior, keep with robust species. Provide rocky hiding places. Regular water changes. Efficient filtration.

##### [Saulosi cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-saulosi)
**Pseudotropheus saulosi** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus saulosi is a modest-sized mbuna known for its bright male coloration. It is endemic to Lake Malawi and highly sought after in the aquarium trade.
Adult males reach about 7–8 cm and display an electric blue body with vertical black stripes, while females are yellow-orange. Their mouth is downward-facing for grazing algae. They are territorial and aggressive, especially among males. They live in groups in shallow rocky areas. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 8cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: VU
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 100-liter tank is needed for a group. Diet should be rich in vegetables (spirulina, spinach). Avoid overly peaceful fish. Provide plenty of rocks to create territories. Change 20% water weekly. Strong filtration is recommended.

##### [Pseudotropheus socolofi](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-socolofi)
**Pseudotropheus socolofi** — Cichlidae · fish
A medium-sized mbuna, with a light blue body and dark vertical bars. Popular in the hobby for its coloration.
Pseudotropheus socolofi has a robust, slightly compressed body. Males are light blue with 6-7 black vertical bars; females are paler with less distinct bars. It reaches 12 cm. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It feeds on algae and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, it is moderately aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It needs plenty of rocky hiding places. Dominant males defend a territory.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 250L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 250L tank is recommended for a group of 5-6. Provide a rocky setup with crevices. Herbivorous diet: spirulina, spinach, vegetable pellets. Avoid high-protein foods. Keep a ratio of 1 male to 3-4 females to reduce aggression. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Efficient filtration is necessary.

##### [Tropheops cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-tropheops)
**Pseudotropheus tropheops** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus tropheops is a medium-sized mbuna with highly variable coloration among populations. It is endemic to Lake Malawi and common in the aquarium trade.
Males reach 10–12 cm and often show blue, yellow or orange coloration with variable patterns. Females are usually duller. Their mouth is downward-facing for grazing algae. They are territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding. They live in groups in rocky areas. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding. Several geographic forms exist.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 150-liter tank is recommended for a group. Herbivorous diet (spirulina, vegetables). Avoid overly peaceful fish. Provide rocks and hiding places. Change 20% water weekly. Strong filtration. Compatible with other robust mbunas.

##### [Zebra cichlid](/encyclopedia/pseudotropheus-zebra)
**Pseudotropheus zebra** — Cichlidae · fish
Pseudotropheus zebra is one of the best-known mbunas, characterized by its vertical stripes. It is endemic to Lake Malawi and widespread in the aquarium trade.
Adult males reach 12–15 cm and display blue and black stripes, while females are often brown-yellow. Their body is robust and mouth downward-facing. They are highly territorial and aggressive, especially among males. They live in groups in rocky areas. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding. Several color varieties exist (e.g., 'red zebra').
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 15cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 200-liter tank is needed for a group. Herbivorous diet (spirulina, vegetables). Avoid very small or peaceful fish. Provide many rocks and hiding places. Change 20% water weekly. Strong filtration. Compatible with other mbunas of similar size.

### Lake Tanganyika

##### [Frontosa cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyphotilapia-frontosa)
**Cyphotilapia frontosa** — Cichlidae · fish
An impressive large cichlid with a prominent forehead hump in males. It is prized for its majestic appearance and calm demeanor.
Cyphotilapia frontosa, or frontosa, is an iconic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. Males develop a characteristic forehead hump with age and display vertical dark blue and white stripes. Females are smaller and less marked. It can reach 30 cm. In the wild, it lives in groups in deep areas (20-50 m) and feeds on small fish and invertebrates. In the aquarium, it requires a large volume and very alkaline water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 400L, Size 30cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Very hard alkaline water (pH 8.0-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-15) at 24-27°C. A minimum 400-liter tank is required, with rocks and open spaces. Perform 30% weekly water changes. Feed with carnivore cichlid pellets, shrimp, and whole fish. Avoid very small tankmates. Keep a group of one male with several females.

##### [Colored cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-coloratus)
**Cyprichromis coloratus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Colored cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, notable for its bright colors and elongated dorsal fin.
This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body. Males display bright colors ranging from blue to yellow with complex patterns. Females are duller. It lives in schools in open water and feeds on zooplankton. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. It was described recently (2014) and is still rare in the hobby. Its dorsal fin is particularly long in males.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 11cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NE
Keep a group of at least 6 in a minimum 200L tank. Hard and alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Temperature 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods (brine shrimp, plankton). Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate flow is beneficial. Regular water changes. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids.

##### [Slender cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-leptosoma)
**Cyprichromis leptosoma** — Cichlidae · fish
Schooling pelagic cichlid with a slender body and colorful fins.
Cyprichromis leptosoma reaches 12 cm. It has an elongated and laterally compressed body, adapted for open water swimming. Males are more colorful than females, with elongated dorsal and anal fins often blue or yellow. It is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female holds eggs in her mouth. It lives in schools of several individuals and is very peaceful. Its schooling behavior is spectacular. It feeds on plankton in the wild.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. A large tank of at least 200 liters is needed for a school of 8-10 individuals. Diet should be varied: brine shrimp, daphnia, small floating pellets. They are very peaceful and compatible with other non-aggressive Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid overly slow or territorial fish. Moderate filtration with good water flow is appreciated. Regular water changes are important. Nitrates should remain low.

##### [Small-scaled cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-microlepidotus)
**Cyprichromis microlepidotus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Small-scaled cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, recognizable by its very fine scales and slender body.
This fish has a very elongated and compressed body, with tiny scales giving it a smooth appearance. Males are metallic blue with yellow reflections, females are silvery. It lives in schools in open water and feeds on zooplankton. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. Less common in the hobby than other Cyprichromis. Its dorsal fin is long and low.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 in a minimum 200L tank. Hard and alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Temperature 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods (brine shrimp, plankton). Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate flow is appreciated. Regular water changes. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids.

##### [Peacock cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-pavo)
**Cyprichromis pavo** — Cichlidae · fish
The Peacock cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, known for its bright colors and schooling behavior.
This fish has an elongated and laterally compressed body, typical of pelagic species. Males display iridescent blue, green, and yellow hues, while females are duller. It lives in schools in open water, feeding on zooplankton. Its dorsal fin is long and often spotted. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. Very active, it requires ample swimming space.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 individuals in a minimum 200L tank. Water must be hard and alkaline (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Ideal temperature is 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods like brine shrimp, plankton, and quality flakes. Avoid aggressive tankmates; prefer peaceful Tanganyikan fish. Moderate water flow is appreciated. Regular water changes are essential. Keep nitrates below 20 mg/L.

##### [Zoned cichlid](/encyclopedia/cyprichromis-zonatus)
**Cyprichromis zonatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Zoned cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, characterized by vertical bands on its flanks.
This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body with dark vertical bands on a blue-silver background. Males are more colorful than females, with yellow and blue reflections. It lives in schools in open water and feeds on zooplankton. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. Less known in the hobby than Cyprichromis pavo but equally interesting. Its dorsal fin is long and pointed.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 11cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep a group of at least 6 in a minimum 200L tank. Water must be hard and alkaline (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Temperature 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods (brine shrimp, plankton). Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate flow is beneficial. Regular water changes are important. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids.

##### [Dickfeld's Julie](/encyclopedia/julidochromis-dickfeldi)
**Julidochromis dickfeldi** — Cichlidae · fish
Julidochromis dickfeldi is a small cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, appreciated for its geometric patterns and interesting behavior. It is relatively easy to keep in a species-specific aquarium.
This fish has an elongated, cylindrical body with a cream or pale yellow base color crossed by three longitudinal black stripes. The dorsal fin is edged with blue and red. The eyes are large and expressive. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It is a monogamous species that forms stable pairs. It is territorial but less aggressive than Tropheus. It feeds on small benthic invertebrates. Spawning occurs in caves or crevices, and parents guard the eggs and fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature between 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5, GH 8–15, and KH 6–10. A minimum tank of 100 liters is suitable for a pair or small group. Diet should be carnivorous: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, carnivore cichlid pellets. Regular water changes of 20% per week are recommended. Filtration should be efficient but without too strong a current. Decor should include stacked rocks forming caves. Compatible with other Julidochromis or peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish.

##### [Marlier's Julie](/encyclopedia/julidochromis-marlieri)
**Julidochromis marlieri** — Cichlidae · fish
Julidochromis marlieri is an elongated cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, recognizable by its horizontal stripes and pair-bonding behavior. It is popular in the hobby for its hardiness.
This fish reaches up to 12 cm and has a fusiform body. Its base color is beige to light yellow, with four longitudinal brown or black stripes. The fins are often tinted with blue. Males are larger and have more developed fins. It is a monogamous species that defends a territory around a cave. It feeds on small crustaceans and insects. Spawning occurs in a cavity, and both parents care for the eggs and fry. In aquariums, it can coexist with other similarly sized species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5, GH 8–15, KH 6–10. A minimum tank of 120 liters is recommended for a pair. Carnivorous diet includes brine shrimp, bloodworms, and pellets. Weekly water changes of 20% are sufficient. Filtration should be moderate. Rocky decor with caves is essential. Compatible with other Julidochromis or peaceful cichlids. Avoid very aggressive fish. Breeding is easy in aquariums if conditions are stable.

##### [Ornate Julie](/encyclopedia/julidochromis-ornatus)
**Julidochromis ornatus** — Cichlidae · fish
Julidochromis ornatus is a small cichlid with an elegant pattern, highly appreciated for its beauty and peaceful behavior. It is ideal for community Tanganyikan cichlid aquariums.
This fish reaches 10 cm and has an elongated body. Its base color is golden yellow with three longitudinal black stripes, the middle stripe being the widest. The fins are adorned with blue spots and red borders. Males are larger and more colorful. It is a monogamous species that forms lasting pairs. It is less territorial than other Julidochromis. It feeds on small invertebrates and algae. Reproduction occurs in crevices, with parents protecting the eggs. In aquariums, it is compatible with other peaceful species.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5, GH 8–15, KH 6–10. A minimum tank of 100 liters for a pair. Carnivorous diet with vegetable supplement. Weekly water changes of 20%. Moderate filtration. Rocky decor with caves. Compatible with other Julidochromis, Neolamprologus, or peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive species. Breeding is easy in aquariums.

##### [Regan's Julie](/encyclopedia/julidochromis-regani)
**Julidochromis regani** — Cichlidae · fish
Julidochromis regani is an elongated cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, characterized by its vertical stripes and pair-bonding behavior. It is hardy and suited for hard water aquariums.
This fish can reach 12 cm and has a cylindrical body. Its base color is beige to light gray, with 5 to 7 dark vertical bars. The fins are often bluish with red spots. Males are larger and have longer fins. It is a monogamous species that defends a territory around a cave. It feeds on small invertebrates and plankton. Spawning occurs in a cavity, with parents guarding the eggs. In aquariums, it can be kept as a pair or in a small group.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 8-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5, GH 8–15, KH 6–10. A minimum tank of 120 liters for a pair. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, pellets. Weekly water changes of 20%. Moderate filtration. Rocky decor with caves. Compatible with other Julidochromis or peaceful cichlids. Avoid overly aggressive fish. Breeding is possible in aquariums with stable conditions.

##### [Brevis cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-brevis)
**Neolamprologus brevis** — Cichlidae · fish
Small shell-dwelling cichlid, territorial and monogamous.
Neolamprologus brevis is a small elongated cichlid reaching 5 cm. It lives exclusively in empty snail shells which it fiercely defends. Males are slightly larger and more colorful than females. It forms monogamous pairs and lays eggs inside the shell. Its behavior is fascinating to observe, especially during courtship displays. It is a very popular species in aquaristics for its small size and unique behavior.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-26°C with pH 8-9 and hardness GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Provide a fine sandy substrate and plenty of empty snail shells. Diet should be carnivorous: brine shrimp, daphnia, small pellets. A minimum tank volume of 30 liters for a pair, but a group requires at least 100 liters. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish; conspecifics should be kept in sufficient numbers to dilute aggression. Regular water changes are essential to maintain good water quality. This species is sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Brichardi cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-brichardi)
**Neolamprologus brichardi** — Cichlidae · fish
The Brichardi cichlid is a small cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, known for its complex social behavior and colonial breeding.
Neolamprologus brichardi has an elongated, slender body, beige to light brown with bluish reflections. The fins are edged in white. It reaches up to 8 cm. It is a schooling fish that lives in structured colonies. It is territorial but can coexist with other peaceful species. It spawns in caves and parents protect the fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 150 L with plenty of rocks and caves. Alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.5), hard (GH 10-20), temperature 24-27°C. They are omnivorous: accept flakes, pellets, artemia, and small worms. Keep a group of at least 6 to observe their social behavior. Avoid overly large or aggressive fish. Breeding is easy in the aquarium.

##### [Caudal-spot cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-caudopunctatus)
**Neolamprologus caudopunctatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Caudal-spot cichlid is a small peaceful cichlid recognizable by the black spot on its caudal fin. It lives in groups and is suitable for community aquariums.
This modest-sized cichlid (8-10 cm) has an elongated body of beige to light gray color, with a characteristic black spot on the upper part of the caudal fin. The fins are often edged with blue. It is a gregarious species that lives in schools in the wild, which reduces aggression. It is less territorial than other Neolamprologus and can coexist with peaceful fish of similar size. Its diet is omnivorous, including small crustaceans, insects, and algae. Breeding occurs in rock cavities, with parents protecting the fry.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Moderate filtration and regular water changes are sufficient. Feed a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and blanched vegetables. A tank of at least 80 liters is recommended for a group of 6-8 individuals. Decorate with rocks and sand, along with robust plants like Anubias. It is a peaceful species that can be kept with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids or community fish of medium size. Breeding is possible in the aquarium, with parents being good guardians. Avoid very active or aggressive fish.

##### [Hecqu's shell-dweller](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-hecqui)
**Neolamprologus hecqui** — Cichlidae · fish
Small shell-dwelling cichlid with a more elongated body than other Neolamprologus.
Neolamprologus hecqui reaches 7 cm. It has a slender body and a low dorsal fin. It shares the shell-dwelling lifestyle with brevis and ocellatus but is less common in the hobby. Its coloration is brownish-silver with bluish reflections. It is territorial but less aggressive than ocellatus. Spawning occurs in the shell, with parents caring for the fry. It prefers larger shells. This species is ideal for a Lake Tanganyika biotope tank.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Sandy substrate and medium to large shells. Carnivorous diet: small crustaceans, larvae, pellets. A pair needs at least 50 liters. Group possible in a large tank (200L+). Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid overly active fish. Maintain well-oxygenated water. Weekly water changes are recommended. Sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Multiband cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-multifasciatus)
**Neolamprologus multifasciatus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Multiband cichlid is a small dwarf cichlid that lives in snail shells. It forms colonies and is very popular in the aquarium hobby.
It is one of the smallest cichlids from Lake Tanganyika, reaching only 5-6 cm. Its body is elongated with numerous dark vertical bands on a beige background. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It lives in colonies in sandy areas where it uses empty snail shells as shelter and breeding sites. Its behavior is territorial but the colony is organized hierarchically. It feeds on small invertebrates and plankton. Breeding occurs inside the shells, with the female laying eggs inside and the male fertilizing them.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. A gentle filtration is preferable to avoid disturbing the shells. Feed an omnivorous diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and fine granules. A tank of at least 60 liters is sufficient for a small colony. The substrate should be sandy with many empty snail shells (e.g., escargot shells). It is peaceful within the colony but can be territorial with other bottom-dwelling fish. Avoid very large or aggressive fish. Breeding is easy if conditions are met, with fry growing inside the shells.

##### [Ocellated shell-dweller](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-ocellatus)
**Neolamprologus ocellatus** — Cichlidae · fish
Small shell-dwelling cichlid, recognizable by its ocelli on the dorsal fin.
Neolamprologus ocellatus reaches up to 6 cm. It has characteristic ocellated spots on the dorsal fin. Like its cousin brevis, it lives in snail shells which it uses as shelter and spawning site. It is slightly more aggressive than brevis and defends a larger territory. Males are larger and develop longer fins. Reproduction occurs inside the shell, with both parents guarding eggs and fry. It is a hardy species and easy to breed in aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Sandy substrate and plenty of shells. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, bloodworms, pellets. A pair can manage in 40 liters, but a group needs 120 liters or more. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid very small fish that might be intimidated. Water parameters must be stable. Efficient filtration is recommended. Nitrates should stay below 20 mg/L.

##### [Similar cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-similis)
**Neolamprologus similis** — Cichlidae · fish
The Similar cichlid is a dwarf cichlid very close to the Multiband cichlid, with finer bands. It also lives in snail shells.
This small cichlid measures 5-6 cm and closely resembles Neolamprologus multifasciatus, but its vertical bands are narrower and more numerous. The base color is light beige with silvery reflections. It lives in colonies in the sandy areas of Lake Tanganyika, using snail shells as shelter. Its behavior is similar: territorial but forming hierarchical groups. It feeds on micro-invertebrates and plankton. Breeding occurs inside shells, with parental care.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. A gentle filtration is recommended. Omnivorous diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and finely chopped vegetables. A tank of at least 60 liters for a colony of 4-6 individuals. The substrate should be sandy with empty snail shells. It is a peaceful species that can coexist with other small peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid very large fish. Breeding is easy if shells are present. Fry stay near the shells and are protected by the parents.

##### [Splendid cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-splendens)
**Neolamprologus splendens** — Cichlidae · fish
Medium-sized cichlid living among rocks, with bright colors.
Neolamprologus splendens reaches up to 12 cm. It has a robust body and well-developed fins. Its coloration ranges from yellow to blue with metallic reflections. Unlike the other Neolamprologus in this list, it does not live in shells but in rock crevices. It is territorial and can be aggressive towards conspecifics. It forms monogamous pairs and lays eggs on rock surfaces. This species is prized for its beauty and interesting behavior.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Provide plenty of rock caves. Omnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, vegetable matter. A pair needs at least 100 liters. Group possible in a large tank (300L+). Compatible with other robust Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid very small fish. Strong filtration is necessary. Parameters must be stable. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L.

##### [Four-spine cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-tetracanthus)
**Neolamprologus tetracanthus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Four-spine cichlid is distinguished by its four spines on the anal fin. It is a territorial cichlid but less aggressive than some of its congeners.
This fish has an elongated body and a variable coloration from beige to gray with bluish reflections. It has four distinctive spines on the anal fin, hence its name. Males are slightly larger and more colorful than females. It lives in pairs or small groups in the rocky areas of Lake Tanganyika. Its behavior is territorial but it tolerates other species of similar size. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates and zooplankton. Adult size is about 10-12 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Efficient filtration and weekly water changes are necessary. Feed a carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and cichlid pellets. A tank of at least 120 liters is recommended for a pair. Decorate with rocks and sand to create hiding places. It can coexist with other Tanganyikan cichlids of comparable size, but avoid very small species. Breeding occurs on a rocky substrate, with both parents caring for eggs and fry. Maintain stable water parameters to avoid stress.

##### [Five-bar cichlid](/encyclopedia/neolamprologus-tretocephalus)
**Neolamprologus tretocephalus** — Cichlidae · fish
The Five-bar cichlid is a Tanganyikan cichlid recognizable by its five vertical dark bars. It is a territorial fish that requires a species-specific aquarium.
This cichlid has an elongated and laterally compressed body, with a cream-white base color and five well-defined vertical black bars. The fins are often tinted light blue, and males develop filamentous extensions on the dorsal fin. It is territorial and forms monogamous pairs that vigorously defend their spawning site. In the wild, it inhabits rocky and sandy areas where it digs cavities to breed. It is an opportunistic predator that hunts small invertebrates and fish. Adult size reaches about 12 cm.
Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 12cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24-26°C, pH 7.8-9.0, and high hardness (GH 10-20, KH 10-20). The water must be well oxygenated and filtered, with regular water changes. Feed a carnivorous diet: live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, small fish) and a quality pellet. A minimum tank volume of 150 liters is recommended for a pair. Decorate the aquarium with rocks and fine sand to mimic its natural habitat. Avoid keeping it with very small or shy fish, as it can be aggressive. Compatibility is possible with other robust Tanganyikan cichlids of similar size. Breeding occurs on a rocky substrate or in a cavity, with parents guarding eggs and fry.

##### [Tropheus annectens](/encyclopedia/tropheus-annectens)
**Tropheus annectens** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus annectens is a less colorful but interesting cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. It is data deficient in the wild.
Tropheus annectens has a slender body compared to other Tropheus, with a brownish-green base color and a yellow belly. Males may show a faint yellow band. They are herbivorous and feed on aufwuchs. They are aggressive and require large groups. They are maternal mouthbrooders. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, but its exact distribution is poorly known. They are smaller, reaching only 10 cm. They are less common in the aquarium trade.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: DD
Tropheus annectens requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of rockwork. Water parameters: pH 8.0-9.0, temperature 24-27°C, GH 10-20, KH 12-18. Strict herbivorous diet. Keep in groups of at least 5-6. Weekly water changes. Nitrate < 20 ppm. Data deficient species, be mindful of origin. Compatible with other Tropheus of similar size. Strong filtration recommended.

##### [Brichard's Tropheus](/encyclopedia/tropheus-brichardi)
**Tropheus brichardi** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus brichardi is a colorful cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, known for its bright yellow and black pattern. It is a challenging species requiring specialized care.
Tropheus brichardi has a robust, laterally compressed body with a striking yellow base and black vertical bars. Males are more intensely colored than females. They are herbivorous, feeding on aufwuchs (algae and microorganisms) in the wild. They are highly aggressive, especially towards conspecifics, and require large groups to spread aggression. They are maternal mouthbrooders. This species is endemic to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika. They are known for their intelligence and interactive behavior. They can be territorial and need plenty of rockwork.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tropheus brichardi requires a tank of at least 200 liters, preferably larger, with extensive rockwork to create territories. Water parameters: pH 8.0-9.0, temperature 24-27°C, GH 10-20, KH 12-18. They are strict herbivores; feed spirulina-based foods, blanched vegetables, and avoid high-protein foods. Keep in groups of at least 5-6 to reduce aggression. They are sensitive to water quality; perform weekly water changes. Nitrate should be kept below 20 ppm. They are not recommended for beginners. Compatible with other Tanganyikan cichlids of similar size and temperament. Provide strong filtration and water movement.

##### [Dubois' Tropheus](/encyclopedia/tropheus-duboisi)
**Tropheus duboisi** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus duboisi is a striking cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, with a black body and a bright yellow band. It is a vulnerable species in the wild.
Tropheus duboisi has a deep, laterally compressed body. Adults are black with a broad yellow vertical band across the mid-body, and white spots on the head. Juveniles are black with white spots. They are herbivorous, feeding on aufwuchs. They are highly aggressive and territorial. They are maternal mouthbrooders. Endemic to a small area near Kigoma, Tanzania. They are considered vulnerable due to overcollection and habitat degradation. They require pristine water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: VU
Tropheus duboisi requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of rockwork. Water parameters: pH 8.0-9.0, temperature 24-27°C, GH 10-20, KH 12-18. Strict herbivorous diet: spirulina, blanched vegetables. Keep in groups of at least 5-6. Weekly water changes are essential. Nitrate < 20 ppm. Vulnerable species, prefer captive-bred specimens. Compatible with other Tropheus of similar size. Avoid overly peaceful fish. Strong filtration required.

##### [Kasaba Tropheus](/encyclopedia/tropheus-kasabae)
**Tropheus kasabae** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus kasabae is a vibrant cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, with an orange-yellow body and black bars. It is near threatened in the wild.
Tropheus kasabae has a robust body with a bright orange-yellow base and bold black vertical bars. Males are more colorful. They are herbivorous, feeding on aufwuchs. They are highly aggressive and need large groups. They are maternal mouthbrooders. Endemic to the Kasaba Bay area of Lake Tanganyika. They are near threatened due to limited distribution and collection. They require stable water conditions and a diet rich in plant matter.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NT
Tropheus kasabae requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of rockwork. Water parameters: pH 8.0-9.0, temperature 24-27°C, GH 10-20, KH 12-18. Strict herbivorous diet: spirulina, blanched vegetables. Keep in groups of at least 5-6. Weekly water changes. Nitrate < 20 ppm. Near threatened species, prefer captive-bred. Compatible with other Tropheus. Strong filtration and moderate flow.

##### [Moorii cichlid](/encyclopedia/tropheus-moorii)
**Tropheus moorii** — Cichlidae · fish
The Moorii cichlid is a herbivorous cichlid renowned for its bright colors and territorial behavior. It is highly prized by advanced aquarists.
Tropheus moorii has a stocky, robust body, with coloration varying by location: yellow, orange, red, or black with bands. Males are larger and more colorful. It reaches up to 14 cm. It is very aggressive towards conspecifics, especially males. It is a mouthbrooder. Its diet is strictly herbivorous.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.8-8.5, GH 12-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 300L, Size 14cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 300 L with plenty of rocks and open swimming space. Alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.5), very hard (GH 12-20), temperature 24-27°C. Strictly vegetarian diet: spirulina, spinach, algae. Never feed animal proteins. Keep a group of at least 10 to dilute aggression, with a ratio of several females per male. Regular water changes are important.

##### [Poll's Tropheus](/encyclopedia/tropheus-polli)
**Tropheus polli** — Cichlidae · fish
Tropheus polli is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika, known for its striking coloration and aggressive behavior. It is highly prized in the aquarium hobby but requires specific care.
Tropheus polli has an elongated, laterally compressed body with a dark brown or black base coloration and a broad bright yellow or orange band on the flank. The fins are often edged with blue. Males are slightly larger and more colorful than females. This species is highly territorial and forms strict hierarchies. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm scraped from rocks. In aquariums, it can become very aggressive towards conspecifics if the group is too small. Reproduction is by mouthbrooding, with the female carrying eggs and fry in her mouth for several weeks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 200L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 24–27°C, pH 8.0–9.0, GH 10–20, and KH 8–12. A minimum tank volume of 200 liters is required for a group of at least 10 individuals. Diet should be primarily vegetable-based: spirulina, blanched vegetables, herbivore pellets. Avoid high-protein animal foods. Weekly water changes of 20–30% are important. Filtration must be strong with good water movement. Compatibility is limited to other robust Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid peaceful or small fish. A rocky decor with plenty of hiding places is essential.

### Central Asia

##### [Rosy barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-conchonius)
**Barbus conchonius** — Cyprinidae · fish
Peaceful and colorful barb, with a rosy body and red fins. Very active, ideal for community aquariums.
Rosy barb grows up to 8 cm. Males display a bright pink to red coloration on the body and fins, especially during breeding. Females are duller, silvery. The body is fusiform and slightly compressed. It is a gregarious fish that must live in groups of at least 6. It is very active and swims throughout the water column. It is known for its hardiness and ease of care.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80-liter aquarium is suitable for a group. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to medium hardness. A planted setup with open areas is appreciated. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, pellets, and live food. Compatible with most peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid very slow or long-finned species. Breeding is easy in a specific tank with fine plants.

##### [Goldfish](/encyclopedia/carassius-auratus)
**Carassius auratus** — Cyprinidae · fish
The goldfish is one of the most popular aquarium fish in the world. Easy to keep, it comes in many colorful varieties.
Carassius auratus reaches 10-30 cm depending on variety. The body is stocky and laterally compressed. Coloration ranges from red-orange to white, black, calico or pearl. Many selected varieties exist: veiltail, lionhead, ranchu, oranda, bubble eye. It is a gregarious, hardy and cold-tolerant fish. It can live 10-20 years in ponds. It is omnivorous, accepting flakes, pellets, blanched vegetables and brine shrimp. It produces a lot of waste, requiring good filtration and a large volume.
Parameters: Temperature 10-24°C, pH 6.5-8, GH 8-25
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 150L, Size 20cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A pond or aquarium of at least 150 L for a small group, more for long-finned varieties. Cold water: 10-24°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 8-25. Strong filtration (goldfish are heavy waste producers). Hardy plants. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, small blanched vegetables. Avoid tropical tankmates that need heat. Very social, keep in groups. Plan a large volume for adult growth.

##### [Dwarf gourami](/encyclopedia/colisa-lalia)
**Colisa lalia** — Osphronemidae · fish
Small colorful gourami, very popular in aquaristics. Peaceful and suitable for small aquariums.
Dwarf gourami reaches 5-6 cm. Males are very colorful: vertical red and blue bands on an orange background. Females are silvery. The body is oval and compressed. It is a shy but active labyrinth fish. It lives in pairs or small groups. It is sensitive to diseases and water quality. Breeding involves a bubble nest.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 40-liter aquarium for a pair. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low hardness. A planted setup with hiding spots and low current is ideal. Omnivorous diet: flakes, fine pellets, live food. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly active species. Breeding is possible in a specific tank with floating plants.

##### [Koi](/encyclopedia/cyprinus-carpio)
**Cyprinus carpio** — Cyprinidae · fish
The koi is the Japanese ornamental variety of the common carp, prized in ornamental ponds for its spectacular patterns.
Cyprinus carpio reaches 40-80 cm and up to 30 kg. The body is massive, with large scales and a pair of barbels on the lips. Wild color is bronze-greenish; koi varieties show spectacular white, red, black and blue patterns. It is an omnivorous, burrowing fish that stirs the substrate. It is very hardy, lives 20-50 years. The Japanese koi is the most sought-after ornamental variety, kept in deep, well-filtered ponds. It is gregarious and calm.
Parameters: Temperature 4-25°C, pH 7-8, GH 8-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 3000L, Size 60cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: VU
Koi require a large pond (minimum 2-3 m³ for a small group, ideally more) with strong biological and mechanical filtration. Cold water: 4-25°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 8-20. Minimum depth 1 m for overwintering. Omnivorous: specific koi pellets, vegetables, fruit. Do not overstock (1 koi per m³). Protection against herons and cats. Excellent longevity but slow growth.

##### [Zebrafish](/encyclopedia/danio-rerio)
**Danio rerio** — Cyprinidae · fish
The zebrafish is a small freshwater fish very popular in aquariums and scientific research. It is easy to keep.
Danio rerio has an elongated, fusiform body with horizontal blue and silver stripes. It reaches up to 4 cm. It is a schooling and active fish that swims in groups. It is very hardy and adapts to various conditions. It breeds easily in the aquarium. Genetically modified varieties (GloFish) exist.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 60 L for a school of 6 to 10 individuals. Neutral to slightly alkaline water (pH 6.5-7.5), soft to moderately hard (GH 5-15), temperature 22-26°C. They are omnivorous: accept flakes, pellets, artemia, and daphnia. A setup with plants and open swimming space is suitable. They are peaceful fish, compatible with many species. Breeding is simple: they spawn on a moss substrate.

##### [Green shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-babaulti)
**Caridina babaulti** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Small freshwater shrimp with green coloration, discreet and effective for algae cleaning.
Caridina babaulti is a 2-3 cm shrimp, olive to bright green, sometimes with stripes. It is very peaceful and shy. It feeds on algae, biofilm, and microorganisms. It lives in groups and breeds in freshwater, but the larvae are planktonic and require very clean water. It is less common in the hobby than Neocaridina.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 3-6, KH 1-3. A planted tank with moss and leaf litter is recommended. Feed with fine foods and vegetables. Breeding is possible if water is stable and rich in microfauna. Avoid predatory fish. Sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Crinkled aponogeton](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-crispus)
**Aponogeton crispus** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
A rhizome plant with wavy, translucent leaves, highly prized in aquascaping for its decorative appearance.
Aponogeton crispus is an aquatic plant with a tuberous rhizome. Its leaves are elongated, wavy on the edges, light green and translucent, reaching up to 40 cm. It produces a floating inflorescence with small white flowers. In an aquarium, it grows quickly and may flower if conditions are favorable. It loses its leaves during a dormant period (winter) then regrows from the tuber. It is ideal as a background or midground plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant requires moderate to intense lighting, a nutrient-rich substrate (with root tabs), and soft to moderately hard water. Ideal temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. It benefits from CO2 injection and liquid fertilizers. A winter dormant period (lower temperature, less light) is beneficial to stimulate flowering. Avoid moving the tuber once planted. Compatible with most peaceful fish.

##### [Rigid-leaved aponogeton](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-rigidifolius)
**Aponogeton rigidifolius** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
Rhizome plant with rigid wavy leaves, very hardy. Perfect for midground or background.
Rigid-leaved aponogeton is distinguished by its dark green, leathery, wavy leaves, 30-60 cm. It grows slowly but is very robust. It tolerates a wide range of parameters and does not require a rest period. It can flower underwater.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 60cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Plant rhizome in soft substrate. Moderate to bright lighting. Regular fertilization. No rest period needed.

##### [Dwarf crypt](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-parva)
**Cryptocoryne parva** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne parva is the smallest species of the genus, forming a dense carpet of light green leaves. Ideal for aquarium foregrounds.
The leaves are lanceolate, 2–5 cm long, bright green. The plant grows slowly and stays low, not exceeding 10 cm. It spreads via underground stolons, creating a uniform carpet. Unlike other cryptocorynes, it does not develop large submerged leaves. Growth is favored by moderate lighting and a rich substrate. It may shed leaves during sudden parameter changes but recovers easily.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–6.5, GH 3–8. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended, but it tolerates plain sand with liquid fertilization. CO2 addition is not essential but speeds growth. Avoid strong currents. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Regular trimming of stolons controls spread. Beware of snails that may damage young shoots.

##### [Wendt's crypt](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-wendtii)
**Cryptocoryne wendtii** — Araceae · plant
Wendt's crypt is a robust and versatile aquarium plant, available in several color varieties.
This plant has lanceolate to oval leaves, green to reddish-brown depending on variety. It can reach 15-30 cm. It grows from a rhizome. Known for its ability to adapt to different conditions. It may lose leaves during sudden changes (crypt melt) but regrows. Ideal for midground or background.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-12
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy to moderate. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low to moderate hardness. Low to moderate light. CO2 optional. Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Avoid sudden parameter changes. Can be planted in substrate. Compatible with most fish. Several varieties available: 'Green', 'Brown', 'Tropica'.

##### [Pinnate Hygrophila](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-pinnatifida)
**Hygrophila pinnatifida** — Acanthaceae · plant
Stem plant with finely divided leaves resembling a fern, ideal for midground.
Hygrophila pinnatifida is a stem plant from India. Its leaves are pinnate, olive green to reddish brown, with narrow lobes. It reaches 15-30 cm in height. Growth is moderate. It produces adventitious roots along the stem. It can be used in midground or foreground. It prefers moderate to high lighting. With good CO2 supply, it develops more intense colors. It is appreciated for its unique appearance.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 2-8. Lighting moderate to high. CO2 recommended. Minimum tank volume 50 L. Plant in groups in midground. Regular trimming to avoid shading. Compatible with peaceful fish. Propagation by stem cuttings or root division.

##### [Powder blue tang](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-leucosternon)
**Acanthurus leucosternon** — Acanthuridae · fish
A surgeonfish with a bright blue body, white head, and yellow fins. Very beautiful but demanding in care.
The powder blue tang has an electric blue oval body, a white head with a black band through the eye, and yellow dorsal and anal fins. It reaches up to 25 cm. It is very active and requires a large swimming space. It is sensitive to skin diseases like ich. In the aquarium, it can be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. Its caudal spine is very sharp.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 400L, Size 25cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 400 L, very stable seawater (salinity 1.023–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Herbivorous, feed with algae and enriched foods. Very sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Quarantine is highly recommended. Avoid aggressive tankmates. A powerful protein skimmer is essential.

##### [Goldtail angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-chrysurus)
**Pomacanthus chrysurus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
The goldtail angelfish is a large marine angelfish easily recognized by its bright yellow tail and blue-green body. It inhabits coral reefs of the western Indian Ocean.
This angelfish has a laterally compressed body colored blue-green with black-edged scales, a lighter head, and a brilliant yellow tail. Juveniles are dark blue with vertical white bands. It can reach 30 cm in length. It is territorial and semi-aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It feeds mainly on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In an aquarium, it requires hiding places and a large water volume.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 0-0, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 500L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, and dKH 8-12. A minimum tank size of 500 liters is recommended for an adult. Provide plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. Diet should include sponges, algae (nori, spirulina), and meaty foods (shrimp, mussels). Avoid keeping with other similarly sized angelfish. It can be kept in a reef tank but may nip at some soft corals. Strong filtration and moderate water flow are required. Perform 20% weekly water changes.

##### [Yellowtail tang](/encyclopedia/zebrasoma-xanthurum)
**Zebrasoma xanthurum** — Acanthuridae · fish
A surgeonfish with a purplish-brown body and bright yellow tail. Less common than the yellow tang, but equally appreciated.
The yellowtail tang has an oval body, purplish-brown with bluish highlights. Its caudal fin is bright yellow, contrasting with the body. It has a sharp caudal spine. Adults reach up to 20 cm. It is active and constantly swims in search of algae. In the aquarium, it can be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. It needs a large volume to swim freely.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 20cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 300 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Avoid cohabitation with other surgeonfish in a small volume. Parameters must be stable, with low nitrates. A protein skimmer is recommended.

### Southeast Asia

##### [Clown Barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-everetti)
**Barbus everetti** — Cyprinidae · fish
The Clown Barb is a colorful and lively fish with red and black patterns. It is appreciated for its active behavior in community tanks.
This barb reaches 12 cm. Its body is silvery with red and black spots, and a black-edged dorsal fin. Males are more colorful. It is a gregarious fish that must live in groups of at least 5. Omnivorous, it feeds on flakes, small invertebrates, and plant matter. Peaceful but may be slightly boisterous with slow fish.
Parameters: Temperature 23-27°C, pH 6-7, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 23-27°C, pH 6.0-7.0, hardness 3-10 dGH. A minimum 100-liter tank for a group. Diet should be varied: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Provide subdued lighting and shaded areas. Efficient filtration with moderate flow. Hardy but sensitive to high nitrates.

##### [Spanner Barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-lateristriga)
**Barbus lateristriga** — Cyprinidae · fish
The Spanner Barb is a peaceful and active fish, recognizable by its dark vertical bars. It lives in schools and enjoys planted aquariums.
This barb reaches up to 12 cm. Its elongated body is silvery with 4 to 6 vertical black bars. The fins are slightly tinted red in males. It is a gregarious fish that requires conspecifics. It is omnivorous and accepts a wide variety of foods. Its active behavior makes it an excellent community fish.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, hardness 5-15 dGH. A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended for a group of 5. Diet should be varied: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Moderate filtration and standard lighting. Hiding spots and floating plants are appreciated. Hardy and easy to keep.

##### [Checker barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-oligolepis)
**Barbus oligolepis** — Cyprinidae · fish
Peaceful and colorful barb, perfect for community aquariums.
The Checker barb is a small barb from Sumatra. It reaches about 5 cm and has a checkerboard pattern on its sides. It is a schooling fish that should be kept in groups. It is hardy and adapts to various water conditions. Omnivorous, it accepts a wide range of foods.
Parameters: Temperature 22-27°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Group of 6+ in a tank of at least 80L. Neutral to slightly acidic water, good filtration. Feed with flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

##### [Five-banded Barb](/encyclopedia/barbus-pentazona)
**Barbus pentazona** — Cyprinidae · fish
Peaceful barb with a silvery body adorned with five vertical black bands. Ideal for planted community aquariums.
The Five-banded Barb grows to about 5 cm. Its body is deep and laterally compressed, silvery with five distinct vertical black bands. The fins are transparent with sometimes a reddish tint. It is a schooling fish that lives in acidic waters. It is active but non-aggressive, unlike some of its cousins. It spends its time foraging at the bottom and mid-water. In the aquarium, it appreciates dense plants and shaded areas. Its coloration is more pronounced in males during breeding season.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature between 24 and 28°C, pH 5.0 to 7.0, GH 2 to 10. A minimum tank of 60 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Water should be soft and slightly acidic, enriched with tannins if possible. Feed with varied foods: flakes, pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp. This barb is peaceful and compatible with other similarly sized fish like rasboras and corydoras. Avoid aggressive barbs like the Tiger Barb. Regular water changes are important. Breeding is possible in soft acidic water with fine plants; eggs are scattered in open water.

##### [Large-mouthed betta](/encyclopedia/betta-macrostoma)
**Betta macrostoma** — Osphronemidae · fish
Rare and threatened betta, recognizable by its large mouth and bright colors.
Betta macrostoma is a labyrinth fish endemic to Borneo. It is distinguished by its particularly large mouth and developed fins. Males are very colorful with red, blue, and green hues. It lives in acidic blackwater of peat swamps. In the aquarium, it requires very soft, acidic water, low light, and plenty of hiding places. It is territorial but less aggressive than Betta splendens.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 4-6, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
Species tank of at least 80L for a pair. Very soft water (GH < 5), pH 4.0-6.0, temperature 24-28°C. Gentle filtration, floating plants, hiding spots. Feed with live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp).

##### [Emerald Betta](/encyclopedia/betta-smaragdina)
**Betta smaragdina** — Osphronemidae · fish
A beautiful labyrinth fish with emerald green colors, relatively peaceful for a Betta. It is appreciated for its interesting behavior and ease of breeding.
Betta smaragdina has an elongated, laterally compressed body, metallic emerald green with blue and red highlights. Males have longer, more colorful fins than females. It has a labyrinth organ allowing it to breathe atmospheric air. It reaches up to 7 cm. It is territorial but less aggressive than Betta splendens. It can be kept in pairs or groups in a sufficiently large tank. It builds a bubble nest for reproduction. It is curious and interactive.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 60 L for a pair, 100 L for a group. Calm water, low flow. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10. Floating plants and hiding spots essential. Diet: carnivorous, accepts pellets, flakes, bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia. Males are territorial, avoid multiple males in a small volume. Compatible with peaceful fish of similar size (rasboras, small corydoras). Perform 20% weekly water changes. Lid required as they jump. Easy breeding in a species tank.

##### [Siamese fighting fish](/encyclopedia/betta-splendens)
**Betta splendens** — Osphronemidae · fish
Labyrinth fish with spectacular fins, known for male aggression towards each other. Very popular in aquaristics.
Betta splendens grows 6-7 cm. Males have long flowing fins in bright colors (red, blue, green, white). Females are smaller and duller. It has a labyrinth organ allowing it to breathe atmospheric air. It is territorial and aggressive towards other males. It can coexist with other peaceful species in a community tank. Breeding involves the male building a bubble nest.
Parameters: Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: VU
A minimum 20-liter aquarium for a single male, or 60 liters for a pair with other fish. Temperature 26-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5, low hardness. A planted setup with hiding spots and low current is ideal. Carnivorous diet: pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp. Do not keep two males together. Compatible with small peaceful fish (tetras, corydoras). Avoid long-finned or aggressive species.

##### [Berdmore's loach](/encyclopedia/botia-berdmorei)
**Botia berdmorei** — Botiidae · fish
Berdmore's loach is a peaceful, schooling fish appreciated for its active behavior and colorful patterns. It requires a spacious aquarium with hiding places.
The body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a beige to light brown background marked by dark vertical bands and black spots. The fins are often tinted red or orange. The eyes are mobile and located high on the head. This species is very active and spends its time sifting through the substrate for food. It lives in groups and shows a social hierarchy. Individuals can produce audible sounds during stress or competition. Its lifespan can reach 10 years in captivity.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 18cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 200-liter aquarium is recommended for a group of 5-6 individuals. The substrate should be fine and non-abrasive to protect the barbels. Filtration must be efficient but with moderate flow. Ideal temperature is between 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, total hardness 5-12 dGH. It is omnivorous: accepts dry, frozen and live foods (bloodworms, artemia). Hiding places (rocks, roots, pipes) are essential. It is compatible with peaceful fish of similar size, but may stress very small species. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Weekly water changes of 20-30% are necessary.

##### [Glowlight Danio](/encyclopedia/danio-choprae)
**Danio choprae** — Cyprinidae · fish
Very small danio with orange highlights, peaceful and ideal for nano-aquariums. Its bright color lights up the tank.
The Glowlight Danio reaches only 3 cm. Its body is translucent with a bright orange horizontal stripe that glows under good lighting. The fins are colorless. It lives in schools in mountain streams. It is a very active and schooling fish, swimming mainly at the surface. It is extremely peaceful and can be kept with other small species. Its small size allows it to be housed in small volumes. It is sensitive to water parameters, especially quality.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature between 22 and 26°C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, GH 5 to 12. A 40-liter tank is sufficient for a group of 8 to 10 individuals. Water must be clean and well oxygenated. Feed with micro-foods: infusoria, brine shrimp nauplii, crushed flakes. This fish is very peaceful and compatible with dwarf shrimp and micro-rasboras. Avoid larger or aggressive fish. Regular water changes are crucial. Breeding is possible in soft water with fine plants; eggs are non-adhesive.

##### [Spotted Danio](/encyclopedia/danio-nigrofasciatus)
**Danio nigrofasciatus** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small danio with a silvery body dotted with black spots, very active and easy to keep. Perfect for beginners.
The Spotted Danio grows to about 4 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, silvery with a series of black spots aligned along the flanks. The fins are translucent. It is a schooling fish that swims at the surface and mid-water. It is very lively and curious, constantly exploring its environment. In a group, it shows hierarchy behaviors. Its small size makes it ideal for nano-aquariums. It is hardy and adapts to various water conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 40L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature between 22 and 26°C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, GH 5 to 12. A tank of at least 40 liters is sufficient for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Water must be well filtered and oxygenated. Feed with fine flakes, micro-pellets, and live foods like daphnia. This fish is peaceful and compatible with other small fish such as tetras or corydoras. Avoid slow-moving or long-finned species that may be stressed. Weekly water changes of 20% are recommended. Breeding is easy: eggs are scattered among plants.

##### [Cambodian Garra](/encyclopedia/garra-cambodgiensis)
**Garra cambodgiensis** — Cyprinidae · fish
A small peaceful bottom-dweller, ideal for Asian community aquariums. It feeds on algae and micro-invertebrates.
Garra cambodgiensis has an elongated, fusiform body, silvery-grey with a dark longitudinal stripe. Its sucker-like mouth allows it to cling to rocks in currents. Fins are translucent with occasional orange highlights. It reaches up to 10 cm. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools in the wild. It is very active and constantly sifts through the substrate for food. Its behavior is peaceful, but it can become territorial with conspecifics if space is insufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 5 in a tank of 100 L or more. Water must be well-oxygenated with moderate to strong flow. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15. Fine sand or rounded gravel substrate is recommended. Add smooth rocks and driftwood to mimic its natural habitat. Omnivorous, accepts flakes, pellets, and appreciates algae wafers. Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid very slow or long-finned species. Perform 20-30% weekly water changes.

##### [Panda garra](/encyclopedia/garra-flavatra)
**Garra flavatra** — Cyprinidae · fish
The panda garra is a small colorful fish, recognizable by its black and white markings. It is active and enjoys strong currents.
Garra flavatra reaches 6–8 cm. Its body is elongated, with a white to yellowish background marked with broad vertical black bands, reminiscent of a panda. The mouth is sucker-shaped. It has transparent fins. It is a very active fish that spends its time grazing algae on rocks. It is gregarious and must be kept in groups. It is peaceful but can be lively. In the aquarium, it requires strong current and highly oxygenated water. It is sensitive to organic pollution.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium is sufficient for a small group, but a larger volume is preferable. Water should be cool and well oxygenated: temperature 20–26 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15, KH 3–10. Strong current is essential, achieved with a circulation pump. Substrate can be gravel or pebbles. Add many smooth rocks for grazing. Feed with algae, blanched spinach, pellets, and frozen foods. Change 30% water weekly. Avoid slow or bottom-dwelling fish. Breeding is difficult in captivity.

##### [Nose Garra](/encyclopedia/garra-nasuta)
**Garra nasuta** — Cyprinidae · fish
A Garra with a prominent snout, very active and specialized in algae grazing. It requires strong current.
Garra nasuta is distinguished by its elongated, fleshy snout, giving it a unique appearance. Body is elongated, silvery-grey with dark spots. The sucker mouth is located under the snout. Fins are large and powerful. It reaches 12 cm. It is a gregarious fish living in schools in current zones. It feeds exclusively on algae and biofilm. It is very active and can be aggressive towards other Garra if space is insufficient. It needs very clean, oxygenated water.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 120L, Size 12cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Tank of at least 120 L with strong current (powerhead recommended). Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15. Sand or fine gravel substrate. Decorate with large smooth stones and wood. Diet: algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and occasional protein foods. Keep in groups of 5 or more. Compatible with current-loving fish like Danios, Rasboras, or other Garra. Avoid slow fish. Perform 30% weekly water changes. Lid mandatory.

##### [Red-finned Paradise Fish](/encyclopedia/macropodus-erythropterus)
**Macropodus erythropterus** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Red-finned Paradise Fish is a colorful labyrinth fish from Southeast Asia, prized for its bright red fins and territorial behavior.
This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body with long, pointed dorsal and anal fins. Males display bright red fins and bluish iridescence on the body. It possesses a labyrinth organ for breathing atmospheric air. It is territorial, especially towards other males, but can coexist with robust species. During breeding, the male builds a bubble nest at the surface. It can produce sounds during courtship displays.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this fish in an aquarium of at least 80 liters with a lid to maintain a humid air layer. Ideal temperature is 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Provide a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid small or shy tankmates; prefer medium-sized robust fish. A setup with floating plants and hiding spots is recommended. Regular water changes are important for water quality. Males can be aggressive towards other males; keep as a pair or harem.

##### [Eel loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-anguillaris)
**Pangio anguillaris** — Cyprinidae · fish
The eel loach is an elongated, eel-like fish, ideal for peaceful community aquariums. It enjoys sandy substrates and hiding places.
Pangio anguillaris has a very elongated, cylindrical body reminiscent of an eel, with a brownish to yellowish coloration and darker markings. Its fins are small and transparent. It is a nocturnal fish that spends the day buried in sand or hidden under roots. It is gregarious and must be kept in groups of at least three. Its burrowing behavior is fascinating to watch. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates and worms. In the aquarium, it accepts frozen foods and sinking pellets.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep this species in an aquarium of at least 60 liters with a fine sandy substrate to allow burrowing. Water should be soft to moderately hard, with a pH of 6.0–7.0 and a temperature of 24–28 °C. Gentle filtration is recommended to avoid strong currents. Plant densely and add roots, smooth stones, and leaf litter to recreate a natural biotope. Feed with a varied diet: bloodworms, brine shrimp, sinking pellets for bottom dwellers. Avoid aggressive or overly large tankmates. Regular water changes are essential to maintain good water quality.

##### [Doria's loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-doriae)
**Pangio doriae** — Cyprinidae · fish
Doria's loach is a small, peaceful bottom-dwelling fish, recognizable by its elongated body and spotted pattern. It lives in groups and enjoys soft, acidic water.
Pangio doriae reaches about 8–10 cm in adulthood. Its body is elongated, slightly laterally compressed, with a beige to light brown base color dotted with small irregular dark spots. The fins are translucent. It is a gregarious, nocturnal fish that hides in the substrate or under plant debris. It is very active at night and can be seen sifting through sand for food. In the aquarium, it is shy and requires plenty of hiding places. It gets along well with other peaceful species of similar size.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 60-liter aquarium is recommended, with a fine sandy substrate and gentle filtration. Ideal parameters: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 5.5–7.0, GH 2–8, KH 1–4. Add roots, stones, and floating plants to dim the light. Feed with small live or frozen foods, as well as sinking pellets. Change 20% water weekly. Avoid fast or aggressive fish. Breeding in captivity is rare but possible under very stable conditions.

##### [Giant Kuhli Loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-myersi)
**Pangio myersi** — Cyprinidae · fish
The Giant Kuhli Loach is an elongated, striped bottom-dwelling fish, peaceful and nocturnal. It enjoys hiding spots and groups of conspecifics.
This loach can reach 10 cm. Its eel-like body is brownish-pink with dark vertical bands. It has small fins and a downward-facing mouth. It is a gregarious fish that must live in groups of at least 3. It is omnivorous and sifts through the substrate for food. Its shy behavior makes it ideal for planted tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, hardness 2-10 dGH. A minimum 80-liter tank for a group. Fine sand substrate to avoid injuries. Many hiding spots (roots, leaves, pipes). Diet: sinking pellets, brine shrimp, worms. Gentle filtration. Sensitive to nitrates and sudden changes.

##### [Half-banded Loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-semicincta)
**Pangio semicincta** — Cyprinidae · fish
The Half-banded Loach is a small striped bottom-dweller, very peaceful and shy. It lives in groups and requires a well-structured tank.
This loach reaches up to 8 cm. Its elongated body is pale yellow with incomplete brown bands (half-bands). It has a rounded caudal fin. It is a gregarious fish that must be kept in groups of at least 3. Omnivorous, it feeds on small invertebrates and debris. Sensitive to water quality and prefers soft, acidic water.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, hardness 1-5 dGH. A minimum 60-liter tank for a group. Fine sand substrate, many hiding spots (roots, oak leaves). Diet: sinking pellets, microworms, brine shrimp. Gentle filtration with low flow. Regular but gradual water changes. Delicate species.

##### [Shelford's loach](/encyclopedia/pangio-shelfordii)
**Pangio shelfordii** — Cyprinidae · fish
Shelford's loach is a slender bottom fish, characterized by a dark longitudinal stripe. It is peaceful and lives in groups in soft, acidic waters.
Pangio shelfordii reaches 8–10 cm. Its body is elongated, with a well-defined dark lateral line on a beige to light brown background. The fins are small and colorless. It is a burrowing fish that spends much time buried in sand, only the head protruding. It is gregarious and shy, requiring the presence of conspecifics. Its diet consists of small benthic invertebrates. In the aquarium, it is sensitive to water quality and unstable parameters. It cohabits well with peaceful fish such as small rasboras or corydoras.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Provide an aquarium of at least 60 liters with fine sandy substrate and gentle filtration. Temperature 24–28 °C, pH 5.5–6.5, GH 2–6, KH 1–3. Water must be very clean and stable. Add catappa leaves and roots to acidify the water and provide hiding places. Feed with live foods (bloodworms, daphnia) and sinking pellets. Change 20% water weekly. Avoid boisterous fish. Breeding is difficult in captivity.

##### [Silver rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-argyrotaenia)
**Rasbora argyrotaenia** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small peaceful schooling fish with a slender silver body. Ideal for community aquariums.
Rasbora argyrotaenia is a cyprinid from Southeast Asia. It grows up to 10 cm. Its body is silver with a slight golden hue and a dark lateral line. It is an active schooling fish. It reproduces by laying adhesive eggs on plants.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
Easy to keep. Prefers a planted aquarium with open swimming space. Soft to slightly acidic water. Varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Keep in groups of at least 6.

##### [Eyespot Rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-dorsiocellata)
**Rasbora dorsiocellata** — Cyprinidae · fish
Small peaceful fish recognizable by its black spot on the dorsal fin. Ideal for planted community aquariums.
The Eyespot Rasbora grows up to 6 cm. Its body is silvery with a characteristic black spot on the dorsal fin, resembling an eye. It also has a fine dark lateral line. It is a schooling fish that lives in shoals in the wild. It is very active and peaceful, making it an excellent choice for community aquariums. Its caudal fin is slightly forked. Under good conditions, golden reflections appear on its flanks.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature between 22 and 26°C, pH 5.5 to 7.0, and GH 2 to 10. A planted aquarium with shaded areas and moderate flow is ideal. Provide a varied diet: flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp, and daphnia. A minimum tank volume of 60 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. This fish is very peaceful and compatible with other small non-aggressive species. Avoid overly active or large tankmates. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. Breeding is possible in soft acidic water with fine-leaved plants.

##### [Clown Rasbora](/encyclopedia/rasbora-kalochroma)
**Rasbora kalochroma** — Cyprinidae · fish
Large rasbora with an elongated body and reddish sheen, requiring very acidic water. Peaceful but sensitive species.
The Clown Rasbora can reach 10 cm. Its body is slender, silvery to pinkish with a dark horizontal stripe. The fins are often tinged with orange-red. It lives in schools in the blackwaters of peat swamps. It is an active and peaceful fish, but can be shy in small groups. It has a large mouth adapted for catching insects. In the aquarium, it appreciates hiding places and subdued lighting. Its coloration intensifies with a diet rich in carotenoids.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 4-6.5, GH 1-5
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature between 24 and 28°C, very acidic pH 4.0 to 6.5, GH below 5. Water must be soft and rich in tannins (catappa leaves). A minimum tank of 100 liters is required for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Feed with varied foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, small insects, and quality flakes. Avoid strong currents. Compatible tankmates: small characins, corydoras, other rasboras. Water changes should be frequent but moderate to avoid disturbing chemistry. Breeding is difficult, requiring very soft and acidic water.

##### [Tiger loach](/encyclopedia/syncrossus-helodes)
**Syncrossus helodes** — Botiidae · fish
The tiger loach is a semi-aggressive fish with a characteristic striped pattern. It requires a large aquarium with many hiding places and acidic water.
The body is elongated and robust, with a beige to yellow coloration adorned with wide black vertical bands reminiscent of a tiger's coat. The fins are often edged with red. The head is pointed with well-developed barbels. This species is territorial and may show intraspecific aggression if the group is too small. It is very active and constantly explores the substrate. In a sufficiently large group (6+), the hierarchy stabilizes. It can produce audible clicks. Adult size reaches 25 cm and lifespan 12 years.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-12
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 25cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 300-liter aquarium is required for a group of 5-7 individuals. The substrate should be fine (sand) to avoid injuring the barbels. Filtration must be powerful but with moderate flow. Ideal temperature is 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, hardness 5-12 dGH. Diet is omnivorous: worms, crustaceans, dry foods. Numerous hiding places (rocks, roots, pots) are essential to reduce stress. Avoid very small or shy fish. Weekly water changes of 25-30% are recommended. Good oxygenation is important.

##### [Pygmy Gourami](/encyclopedia/trichopsis-pumila)
**Trichopsis pumila** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Pygmy Gourami is one of the smallest labyrinth fish, very peaceful and suitable for nano aquariums. It is valued for its discreet nature and schooling behavior.
This fish reaches only 3–4 cm in adulthood. Its body is elongated with a light brown-green coloration and dark spots. Fins are translucent with bluish reflections in males. It has a labyrinth organ but remains very dependent on water quality. It is a shy, schooling fish that must live in groups of at least 6. It breeds by building a small bubble nest. Fry are tiny and require very fine food. It is sensitive to water parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 3.5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 30-liter tank is recommended for a group. Ideal temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Diet should consist of micro-particles: brine shrimp, daphnia, micro-pellets. This fish is very peaceful and can coexist with other small species like rasboras or dwarf corydoras. Dense planting and hiding spots are essential. Keep in groups of 6 or more. Regular water changes and good filtration are needed. Avoid larger or aggressive fish.

##### [Croaking Gourami](/encyclopedia/trichopsis-vittata)
**Trichopsis vittata** — Osphronemidae · fish
The Croaking Gourami is a small peaceful labyrinth fish known for the sounds it produces. It is ideal for planted community aquariums.
This fish has an elongated, slightly compressed body with rounded fins. Coloration is brownish to gray-green with dark spots and a black lateral line. Males have longer, more colorful fins. It has a labyrinth organ and can produce sounds by rubbing its pectoral fins. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in groups. It breeds by building a bubble nest under a leaf. Fry are very small and require fine food.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 40-liter tank is sufficient for a small group. Temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15. Provide a varied diet: micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. This fish is very peaceful and can coexist with other small non-aggressive species. A planted setup with shaded areas and floating plants is ideal. Keep in groups of at least 3 to encourage natural behavior. Weekly water changes are recommended. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Bamboo shrimp](/encyclopedia/atyopsis-moluccensis)
**Atyopsis moluccensis** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Peaceful filter-feeding shrimp with long fan-like legs, ideal for planted tanks with current.
Bamboo shrimp is a filter-feeding species that uses its fan-like front legs to capture suspended particles. It can reach 8 cm. Coloration varies from brown to reddish with a light dorsal stripe. It is very peaceful and social. It requires moderate current to feed. It molts regularly. It is a hardy species but sensitive to water quality.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 60L, Size 8cm, Diet filter
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10, KH 3-8. Moderate current essential. Feed with micro-particles, spirulina powder, filter-feeder food. Minimum tank 60L. Group of 3+ recommended. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid predators. Sensitive to copper.

##### [Pinocchio Shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-gracilirostris)
**Caridina gracilirostris** — Atyidae · invertebrate
The Pinocchio Shrimp is distinguished by its long pointed rostrum, reminiscent of Pinocchio's nose. It is active and colorful, with shades of red and brown.
This shrimp reaches about 3-4 cm. Its rostrum is very elongated, clearly extending beyond the eyes. Coloration varies from brown-red to bright red, with lighter bands on the abdomen. Antennae are long and slender. It is very active, often swimming in the water column. Its behavior is peaceful, but it can be slightly more territorial than other shrimp. It feeds on algae, detritus, and microorganisms. Reproduction is moderately difficult, requiring stable water and rich feeding.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 4cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Ideal temperature: 22-28 °C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. A minimum tank size of 30 liters is recommended. Omnivorous, accepts shrimp foods, vegetables, and algae. Avoid large or aggressive fish. Moderate current is appreciated. Substrate can be dark or light. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are important. Good filtration without strong flow. Reproduction requires stable parameters and slightly acidic water.

##### [Amano shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-multidentata)
**Caridina multidentata** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Freshwater shrimp renowned for its efficiency in eating algae, especially filamentous types.
Caridina multidentata is a medium-sized shrimp (3-5 cm), gray-brown with dark spots and lines. It is very active and peaceful. It is one of the best algae eaters, also consuming detritus. It needs a group to feel secure. Its reproduction requires brackish water, making it difficult in freshwater aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Easy to keep: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-10. A planted tank with hiding places and good flow is ideal. Feed with algae, vegetables, and supplements. It can coexist with peaceful fish. Breeding in freshwater is nearly impossible; larvae need brackish water. Beware of jumping, cover the tank.

##### [Malaysian shrimp](/encyclopedia/caridina-serrata)
**Caridina serrata** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Small peaceful freshwater shrimp, easy to keep, ideal for nano tanks.
Caridina serrata is a small shrimp up to 3 cm. It has a translucent body with dot and line patterns. It is very active and moves in groups. It feeds on algae and detritus. It is easy to breed in aquariums. It prefers soft and acidic water. It is a hardy species but sensitive to sudden changes.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: NE
Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.0, GH 2-6, KH 1-4. Moderate lighting. Omnivorous diet: algae, vegetables, shrimp food. Minimum tank 20L. Group of 10+ recommended. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid predatory fish. Sensitive to copper and high nitrates.

##### [Red cherry shrimp](/encyclopedia/neocaridina-davidi)
**Neocaridina davidi** — Atyidae · invertebrate
A small freshwater shrimp very popular in aquariums, easy to breed and available in multiple color morphs.
Neocaridina davidi is a shrimp of the Atyidae family, measuring 2-3 cm. The wild form is brown/gray, but selective breeding has produced red (Red Cherry), yellow, blue, etc. varieties. It is peaceful and lives in groups. It feeds on algae, detritus, and leftover food. It breeds easily in freshwater, with females carrying eggs under the abdomen. It is an excellent cleaner for planted tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Easy to keep: temperature 18-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8, KH 2-5. A well-planted tank with hiding places (moss, leaves) is ideal. Avoid predatory fish. Feed with shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, and mineral supplements. Breeding is easy if parameters are stable. Beware of copper-containing medications.

##### [Sakura shrimp](/encyclopedia/neocaridina-heteropoda)
**Neocaridina heteropoda** — Atyidae · invertebrate
Very popular small freshwater shrimp, easy to breed. Its bright red color makes it a decorative asset.
Sakura shrimp is a selectively bred variety of Neocaridina davidi (formerly heteropoda). It measures 2-3 cm and has an intense red color. It is peaceful and breeds easily in aquariums. It feeds on algae and debris. It prefers well-oxygenated water and moderate temperature.
Parameters: Temperature 20-26°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain stable water with soft parameters. Avoid copper. Provide hiding places (moss, plants). Slow acclimation needed. Do not overstock.

##### [Horned Nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-semiconica)
**Neritina semiconica** — Neritidae · invertebrate
The Horned Nerite is a freshwater snail recognizable by its small horns on the shell, excellent algae cleaner.
Neritina semiconica has a shell of 1-2 cm with horn-like protrusions on the back. Color varies from brown to black with light spots. The body is gray. It is active and moves on surfaces. It feeds on algae and biofilm. It does not reproduce in freshwater. It is a hardy and easy snail. It is peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful species.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 22-28°C, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Tolerates a wide range. Nitrates max 30 ppm, phosphates max 1 ppm. Diet: algae, wafers, vegetables. Compatible with most fish. Avoid predators. No reproduction in freshwater. Can be kept alone or in groups.

##### [Crenate water clover](/encyclopedia/marsilea-crenata)
**Marsilea crenata** — Marsileaceae · plant
Carpeting plant with clover-like leaves, ideal for aquarium foreground. Forms a dense mat under moderate light.
Marsilea crenata is a creeping aquatic fern with bright green four-leaf clover-like leaves. Each leaf is 0.5–2 cm in diameter, borne on thin stolons. Underwater, leaves stay small and close to the substrate. It can also grow emersed, producing larger leaves. Growth is moderate and it adapts to a wide range of parameters. It does not require added CO₂ but benefits from it. A hardy, low-maintenance plant ideal for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy plant, tolerates low to moderate light (0.3-0.5 W/L). Stronger light promotes denser carpet. Ideal temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15°dGH, KH 1-8°dKH. No strict CO₂ requirement, but 10-20 mg/L injection improves growth. Plant small clumps 2-3 cm apart. Regular trimming keeps carpet low. Compatible with most peaceful fish. Avoid burrowing species. Propagate by cutting stolons.

##### [Aponogeton-leaved crypt](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-aponogetifolia)
**Cryptocoryne aponogetifolia** — Araceae · plant
Aquatic plant with long wavy leaves, easy to maintain.
Cryptocoryne aponogetifolia is an aquatic plant from the Araceae family, native to Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its long, wavy, slightly translucent green leaves, reaching up to 50 cm. It grows in a rosette and is ideal for midground or background in an aquarium. It prefers a rich substrate and moderate light. Growth is slow to moderate.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 50L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Moderate light (0.5W/L). CO2 optional but beneficial. Avoid sudden parameter changes. Leaves may melt during adaptation. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5.

##### [Beckett's cryptocoryne](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-beckettii)
**Cryptocoryne beckettii** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne beckettii is a robust plant with green to brown leaves, ideal for freshwater aquariums.
This cryptocoryne has lanceolate leaves colored olive green to reddish brown. It grows in a rosette and can reach 15 cm in height. It is very adaptable and tolerates a wide range of conditions. Its growth is slow to moderate. It can flower underwater with a typical Araceae inflorescence. It is an ideal background or midground plant for beginners.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Cryptocoryne beckettii prefers low to moderate light. CO2 supplementation is not essential but promotes growth. Water parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. It may experience 'melting' during sudden changes in conditions. It propagates via stolons. Compatible with most fish. Avoid strong light which may promote algae on leaves.

##### [Bullosa crypt](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-bullosa)
**Cryptocoryne bullosa** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne bullosa is distinguished by its unique bullate (blistered) leaves. A collector's plant requiring attentive care.
This crypt is remarkable for its textured foliage: leaves have bumps (bullae) between the veins, giving a quilted appearance. Dark green to reddish-brown, it stays modest in size (10-15 cm). Growth is slow and it prefers soft, acidic water. It is more demanding than other crypts and can be sensitive to changes.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 30L, Size 15cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Requires soft, acidic water (pH 5.5-6.5), moderate lighting, and a nutrient-rich substrate. Avoid fluctuations. CO2 fertilization is beneficial.

##### [Crisped cryptocoryne](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-crispatula)
**Cryptocoryne crispatula** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne crispatula is a large plant with wavy, elongated leaves, perfect for the background.
This species is distinguished by its long, narrow leaves with strongly wavy margins. It can reach 50 cm in height. Its color ranges from light green to reddish brown depending on light. It grows in a rosette and produces stolons. Its growth is moderate. It is often used as a background plant in large aquariums. It can flower with a typical spadix.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 100L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Cryptocoryne crispatula requires moderate to high light to maintain its wavy form. CO2 supplementation is beneficial. Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. A nutrient-rich substrate is important. It tolerates a wide range of conditions but prefers soft to moderately hard water. It propagates via stolons. Watch for melting during changes. Suitable for aquariums over 100 liters.

##### [Yellow cryptocoryne](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-lutea)
**Cryptocoryne lutea** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne lutea is a small cryptocoryne with yellow-green leaves, ideal for the foreground.
This species has oval to lanceolate leaves of pale yellow-green color. It forms a compact rosette and does not exceed 10-15 cm. Its growth is slow. It prefers moderate light. It is often confused with Cryptocoryne parva but differs by its lighter color. It can flower underwater. It is an excellent foreground plant for small aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 12cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Cryptocoryne lutea is easy to grow. Moderate light is sufficient. CO2 optional. Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial. It tolerates varied conditions. Avoid strong light which may burn leaves. Minimum tank size: 20 liters. Compatible with shrimp and small fish. Propagation by stolons.

##### [Undulated cryptocoryne](/encyclopedia/cryptocoryne-undulata)
**Cryptocoryne undulata** — Araceae · plant
Cryptocoryne undulata is a medium-sized plant with wavy leaves, very popular in aquariums.
This cryptocoryne has lanceolate leaves with wavy margins, colored olive green to brown. It forms a compact rosette and reaches 20-30 cm. Its growth is slow to moderate. It adapts to different light levels but prefers moderate light. It can produce underwater flowers. It is a versatile plant for midground or foreground. It propagates via stolons.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Cryptocoryne undulata is easy to maintain. Moderate light is sufficient. CO2 optional. Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. It tolerates variable conditions but may melt if sudden changes. Regular trimming to control height. Compatible with most fish. Avoid fish that dig up roots.

##### [Narrow Leaf Java Fern](/encyclopedia/microsorum-pteropus-narrow)
**Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow'** — Polypodiaceae · plant
A variety of Java fern with very narrow, elongated leaves, giving a light and elegant appearance. Perfect for planted tanks.
Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow' has linear leaves 20-30 cm long, bright green, undivided. This slender shape allows creating dense backgrounds without blocking the view. It is a robust epiphyte that easily attaches to supports. Growth is slow and requires little maintenance. Old leaves produce plantlets that can be detached for propagation.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy plant, ideal for beginners. Low to moderate light, no CO2 required. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. A liquid fertilizer rich in potassium is recommended. Do not bury the rhizome. Can be used as background or attached to a central root. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Regular trimming of overly long leaves controls its height.

##### [Java Fern Trident](/encyclopedia/microsorum-pteropus-trident)
**Microsorum pteropus 'Trident'** — Polypodiaceae · plant
A variety of Java fern with narrow leaves deeply divided into three lobes, resembling a trident. Robust and easy plant.
Microsorum pteropus 'Trident' is distinguished by its light to dark green leaves, 20-30 cm long, divided into three pointed segments. This particular shape brings a unique texture to the aquarium. Like all Java ferns, it is an epiphyte that must be attached to wood or stones. Growth is slow but steady. It tolerates parameter fluctuations well. Plantlets often appear on the edges of old leaves.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Very easy plant, suitable for beginners. Low to medium light, no CO2 needed. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. A balanced liquid fertilizer promotes growth. Avoid planting the rhizome in the substrate. Can be used as background or midground. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Occasional trimming of old leaves maintains its aesthetic appearance.

##### [Java Fern Windelov](/encyclopedia/microsorum-pteropus-windelov)
**Microsorum pteropus 'Windelov'** — Polypodiaceae · plant
A dwarf variety of Java fern with branched leaf tips resembling deer antlers. Ideal for planted tanks and paludariums.
Microsorum pteropus 'Windelov' is a slow-growing epiphytic fern. Its dark green leaves are 10-20 cm long and split at the tips into several lobes. This unique morphology gives it a bushy and decorative appearance. It should not be planted in the substrate but attached to driftwood or rock. It tolerates a wide range of water conditions. Reproduction occurs by rhizome division or by the formation of plantlets on old leaves.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 20cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This fern is very easy to maintain. Low to moderate light is sufficient; too much light may promote algae. CO2 is not required but can improve growth. Ideal temperature is between 20 and 28°C. pH can range from 6.0 to 7.5. Regular liquid fertilizer is beneficial. It suits nano tanks and large aquariums. Avoid burying it; simply attach it to a decoration. Compatible with all peaceful fish.

##### [Thai Fern](/encyclopedia/microsorum-thailandicum)
**Microsorum thailandicum** — Polypodiaceae · plant
An epiphytic fern native to Thailand, with dark green undulated leaves. Less common than Java varieties, but equally easy.
Microsorum thailandicum is characterized by thick, leathery leaves, 15-25 cm long, slightly wavy on the edges. Its texture is more rigid than other Microsorum. It grows slowly and remains modest in size. Like all ferns of this genus, it is an epiphyte that prefers to be attached rather than planted. It tolerates variable water conditions. Propagation is by rhizome division or by cuttings of plantlets.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 25cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Easy plant, suitable for freshwater aquariums. Low to medium light, no CO2 needed. Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. A complete liquid fertilizer is beneficial. Attach it to a root or stone, do not bury it. Suitable for small and large tanks. Compatible with fish and shrimp. Good water flow prevents deposits on leaves.

##### [Star lotus](/encyclopedia/nymphaea-stellata)
**Nymphaea stellata** — Nymphaeaceae · plant
The star lotus is a bulbous aquatic plant highly valued in aquascaping for its star-shaped floating leaves and white or pink flowers.
Nymphaea stellata has a bulbous rhizome from which long stems emerge bearing submerged and floating leaves. The floating leaves are round to slightly lobed, with a characteristic notch, and reach up to 20 cm in diameter. The upper side is dark green, the underside often reddish. The solitary flowers bloom at the surface, with white petals tinged with pink or blue. The plant produces stolons and can form colonies. In aquariums, it requires a winter rest period to flower. It is a dioecious species, but flowers are usually sterile in cultivation.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
An easy plant to grow, it prefers a nutrient-rich substrate and moderate to intense lighting. Ideal temperature is between 22 and 28 °C, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Soft to moderately hard water is suitable (GH 2-15, KH 2-10). CO₂ supplementation is not essential but promotes growth. A minimum tank volume of 80 liters is recommended to allow space for floating leaves. Avoid strong currents. Propagation can be done by dividing the bulb or by seeds. Beware of snails that can damage young leaves. A rest period of a few weeks at lower temperature (15-18 °C) stimulates flowering.

##### [Alternate Java moss](/encyclopedia/taxiphyllum-alternans)
**Taxiphyllum alternans** — Hypnaceae · plant
Moss similar to Java moss, with more irregular growth and alternate leaves. Less common but equally easy.
Taxiphyllum alternans is an aquatic moss of the Hypnaceae family, very close to Taxiphyllum barbieri. Its stems are finer and its leaves are alternately arranged, giving it a more sparse appearance. It grows slowly and forms less dense clumps. It attaches easily to surfaces. It is used in aquascaping for natural effects. It provides good shelter for microfauna. It tolerates the same parameters as Java moss.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 5-8, GH 0-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 8cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Care is identical to Java moss. Low to moderate light, temperature 20–28 °C, pH 5.0–8.0. No CO2 needed. Moderate flow is acceptable. It can be attached to rocks or wood. Light trimming helps control its shape. It is very hardy and suitable for beginners. Compatible with shrimp and peaceful fish.

##### [Java moss](/encyclopedia/taxiphyllum-barbieri)
**Taxiphyllum barbieri** — Hypnaceae · plant
Very popular aquatic moss in aquariums, easy to grow and versatile. Ideal for community tanks.
Taxiphyllum barbieri is an aquatic moss of the Hypnaceae family. It forms dense clumps of fine, branched stems with small oval leaves. Its color is bright green. It grows slowly to moderately, attaching easily to surfaces. It is widely used in aquascaping to create carpets, trees, or moss walls. It provides excellent shelter for fry and shrimp. It tolerates a wide range of parameters.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 5-8, GH 0-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 10cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: NE
Java moss is very easy to care for. It accepts low to moderate light, but stronger light promotes denser growth. Temperature between 20 and 28 °C, pH 5.0–8.0. No CO2 needed, but liquid fertilization can be beneficial. Moderate flow is well tolerated. It can be attached with fishing line or glue. Occasional trimming keeps it compact. Compatible with all fish and shrimp.

##### [Hygrophila difformis](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-difformis)
**Hygrophila difformis** — Acanthaceae · plant
Easy plant with highly dissected leaves, changes shape depending on conditions, very decorative.
Hygrophila difformis is a stem plant that can reach 30 cm in height. Its leaves are highly variable: submerged, they are deeply dissected, resembling feathers; emersed, they are oval and entire. This plasticity gives it its name. It grows quickly and forms dense bushes. It is highly valued for its unique appearance. It can be used as a midground or background plant. Growth is enhanced by good lighting.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Medium lighting (0.5-0.8 W/L) is sufficient, but stronger light promotes more dissected leaves. CO2 is not mandatory but speeds up growth. Temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15 °d. It tolerates slightly hard water. Nitrates can reach 25 mg/L. Regular pruning keeps it compact. Propagates by cuttings. Minimum tank volume 20 L. Compatible with all peaceful fish.

##### [Hygrophila polysperma](/encyclopedia/hygrophila-polysperma)
**Hygrophila polysperma** — Acanthaceae · plant
Very easy and hardy plant, ideal for beginners, grows quickly and absorbs nitrates.
Hygrophila polysperma is a stem plant that can reach 50 cm in height. Its leaves are opposite, oval to lanceolate, light green. It has very fast growth, making it an excellent starter plant. It can be grown submerged or emersed. Its roots develop easily. It is often used as a background plant. It can become invasive if not pruned regularly. It tolerates a wide range of conditions.
Parameters: Temperature 18-28°C, pH 6-8, GH 2-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant does not require CO2 or strong lighting; low to medium light is enough. Temperature 18-28 °C, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 2-20 °d. It grows even in hard water. Nitrates can be high (up to 40 mg/L) without issue. Frequent pruning is needed to control growth. It propagates easily from cuttings. Minimum tank volume 20 L. Compatible with all fish. Caution: it can be invasive in some regions.

##### [Rotala macrandra](/encyclopedia/rotala-macrandra)
**Rotala macrandra** — Lythraceae · plant
A fine-stemmed plant with red or pink leaves, highly valued in aquascaping for its color contrast.
Rotala macrandra is a stem plant that can reach 30 to 50 cm in height. Its leaves are opposite, oval to lanceolate, and turn bright red under intense lighting and CO2 supplementation. Growth is fast under optimal conditions. It forms dense clumps if pruned regularly. In the aquarium, it is often used as a background or midground plant. Its color ranges from green to red depending on light intensity and nutrient availability.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 40L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant requires strong lighting (at least 1 W/L) and CO2 supplementation of 20-30 mg/L to show its colors. Ideal temperature is between 22 and 28 °C, pH 6.0-7.5, and GH 2-12 °d. A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended, but it can also absorb nutrients from the water column. Nitrates should stay below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 1.5 mg/L. Regular pruning encourages branching. It is compatible with most peaceful fish. A minimum tank volume of 40 L is advised for a small group.

##### [Rotala rotundifolia](/encyclopedia/rotala-rotundifolia)
**Rotala rotundifolia** — Lythraceae · plant
Fine-stemmed plant with round light green leaves, very popular in aquascaping for its changing colors.
Rotala rotundifolia is a stem plant reaching 30-50 cm. Its leaves are opposite, round to oval, light green, turning pink or red under high light. It produces small pink flowers in spikes. In aquariums, it grows fast and branches well. It is often used in background or midground. Coloration is influenced by light intensity and nutrients.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-8
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 40L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-8, KH 2-5. Moderate to high lighting for good coloration. CO2 recommended (20-30 mg/L). Easy to moderate plant. Regular trimming to promote branching. Compatible with most fish. Liquid fertilizer and nutrient-rich substrate beneficial. Can be grown outdoors.

##### [Rotala sp. 'Green'](/encyclopedia/rotala-sp-green)
**Rotala sp. 'Green'** — Lythraceae · plant
A green variety of Rotala, easy to grow, ideal for beginners in aquascaping.
Rotala sp. 'Green' is a fine-stemmed plant with light green leaves, reaching up to 40 cm in height. Its leaves are opposite, narrow and elongated. It grows quickly and forms dense bushes if pruned. Unlike Rotala macrandra, it stays green even under moderate lighting. It is very hardy and adapts to a wide range of parameters. In the aquarium, it is used as a background or midground plant. Its fast growth helps control algae by absorbing excess nutrients.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-15
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 20L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
This plant tolerates low to moderate lighting, but medium light (0.5-0.8 W/L) promotes compact growth. CO2 is not essential but speeds up growth. Temperature 20-28 °C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15 °d. It accepts slightly hard water. Nitrates can reach 30 mg/L without issue. Regular pruning is recommended to prevent it from getting too tall. It propagates easily from cuttings. Suitable for nano tanks from 20 L. Compatible with all peaceful fish.

##### [Rotala wallichii](/encyclopedia/rotala-wallichii)
**Rotala wallichii** — Lythraceae · plant
Fine-stemmed plant with feathery light green leaves, very decorative and delicate.
Rotala wallichii is a stem plant reaching 30-50 cm. Its leaves are whorled, fine and feathery, light green to slightly reddish. It produces small pink flowers. In aquariums, it is highly valued for its airy appearance. Growth is fast under good light and CO2. Regular trimming is needed to prevent legginess. Ideal for background or as an accent plant.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 2-6
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 50L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-6, KH 1-4. High lighting required for good growth. CO2 essential (20-30 mg/L). Moderately difficult plant. Regular trimming to maintain shape. Compatible with peaceful fish. Liquid fertilizer and nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Sensitive to iron deficiency.

### East Africa

##### [Eggers' killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-eggersi)
**Nothobranchius eggersi** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Nothobranchius eggersi is an annual killifish with brilliant colors, prized for its red fins and metallic blue body.
Males reach 5–6 cm and display a turquoise blue body with red scales, red dorsal and anal fins edged in blue. Females are brown-gray with dark spots. This is an annual species: eggs survive the dry season in mud. In the aquarium, it requires very soft, acidic water, temperature 24–28°C. It is active and colorful, but males are highly territorial. Reproduction involves spawning in a peat substrate, with dry incubation of 3–6 months.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-6.8, GH 2-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 40L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 6.0–6.8, GH 2–5, KH 1–2, temperature 24–28°C. Minimum 40 liters for a pair. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, mosquito larvae. Gentle filtration, subdued lighting. Floating plants and hiding spots. Nitrates max 15 mg/L. Weekly 20% water changes. Sensitive to diseases if water is too hard. Compatible only with other annual killifish or in a species tank.

##### [Furzer's killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-furzeri)
**Nothobranchius furzeri** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Nothobranchius furzeri is an annual killifish famous for its rapid growth and short lifespan, used in aging research.
Males reach 5–7 cm and display a bright blue body with red spots, a red caudal fin, and blue dorsal and anal fins edged in red. Females are brown-gray. This is an annual species: eggs resist drought. In the aquarium, it prefers very soft, acidic water, temperature 25–30°C. It is very active and colorful, but males are aggressive with each other. Reproduction requires a peat substrate and dry incubation of 4–8 months.
Parameters: Temperature 25-30°C, pH 6-6.8, GH 2-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 50L, Size 7cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 6.0–6.8, GH 2–5, KH 1–2, temperature 25–30°C. Minimum 50 liters for a pair. Diet: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, mosquito larvae. Gentle filtration, moderate lighting. Floating plants and hiding spots. Nitrates max 15 mg/L. Weekly 20% water changes. Very sensitive to water quality. Compatible only with other annual killifish or in a species tank. Beware of jumping: cover the tank.

##### [Günther's killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-guentheri)
**Nothobranchius guentheri** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
A small, brightly colored annual killifish highly prized by specialized aquarists. It requires soft, acidic water and live food.
Nothobranchius guentheri is a small fish reaching up to 5 cm. Males display bright red, blue and yellow hues, while females are duller. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, adapted for fast swimming. It has a rounded caudal fin and well-developed pectoral fins. This killifish is a surface dweller that spends most of its time foraging. It is known for territorial behavior among males, especially during breeding. Its peculiarity is its annual life cycle in the wild, laying diapausing eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: LC
Maintain a temperature of 22–26 °C and pH 6.0–7.0. Water must be very soft (GH 2–10) and low in minerals (KH 1–5). A 20-liter tank is sufficient for a pair. Provide a varied diet of live or frozen prey (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms). Males are aggressive toward each other; keep one male with two or three females. A tight lid is essential as they jump. Add floating plants and gentle filtration. Eggs must be incubated in moist peat for several weeks.

##### [Korthaus's killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-korthausae)
**Nothobranchius korthausae** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Threatened annual killifish endemic to Tanzania, with brilliant colors. Its aquarium care is delicate and requires stable parameters.
Nothobranchius korthausae reaches about 5 cm. Males display a bright red pattern on a metallic blue background, with yellow fins. Females are brownish and smaller. The body is fusiform, adapted for fast movement in shallow waters. It has a large upturned mouth, typical of surface feeders. This killifish is active and curious, but males are highly territorial. Its reproduction is annual: eggs undergo obligatory diapause. It is considered endangered in its natural habitat.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 6-7, GH 2-10
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 20L, Size 5cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: EN
Ideal temperature: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.0, GH 2–10, KH 1–5. A 20-liter tank is suitable for a pair. Water must be very soft and acidic. Feed exclusively with live prey (brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae). Males must not be kept together. A lid is mandatory. Use a gentle filter and floating plants. Eggs should be collected on peat and incubated in air for 3–6 months before rehydration.

##### [Rachow's killifish](/encyclopedia/nothobranchius-rachovii)
**Nothobranchius rachovii** — Nothobranchiidae · fish
Rachow's killifish is an annual fish with bright colors, highly prized by specialized aquarists.
Nothobranchius rachovii reaches 5-6 cm. The male is very colorful: turquoise blue body with red scales, red and blue fins. The female is dull, brown. The fins are rounded. It is a surface fish. It lives in small groups. Its life cycle is annual: it hatches, grows, reproduces and dies in less than a year. The eggs can remain in diapause for several months. It is very active and territorial among males.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6-6.5, GH 2-5
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 30L, Size 6cm, Diet carnivore
IUCN status: NT
A specific tank of 30-50 L for a pair or trio. Water should be very soft (GH 2-5), acidic (pH 6.0-6.5), temperature 24-28°C. A gentle filter, without strong current. Provide fine plants (Java moss) and a peat substrate for spawning. Carnivorous: accepts small insects, artemia, daphnia. Do not mix with other fish. Males are aggressive towards each other. Reproduction requires collecting eggs in peat and storing them moist.

##### [Zebra nerite snail](/encyclopedia/neritina-natalensis)
**Neritina natalensis** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Very decorative freshwater snail with black and yellow stripes, excellent algae cleaner.
Neritina natalensis is a medium-sized snail (2-3 cm) with a globular shell adorned with black and yellow bands. It is very active and spends its time grazing algae on glass, rocks, and plants. It does not reproduce in freshwater (larvae need brackish water). It is peaceful and compatible with most fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Easy to keep: temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 5-15. A mature tank with algae is ideal. Feed with algae, blanched vegetables, and calcium supplements. It may starve if the tank is too clean. Avoid snail-eating fish. Do not expose to copper-containing medications.

##### [Olive nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-pulligera)
**Neritina pulligera** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Freshwater snail with a solid olive shell, effective at cleaning algae and deposits.
Neritina pulligera is a 2-3 cm snail with a smooth shell, olive to dark brown, sometimes with spiral lines. It is very active and grazes algae on all surfaces. Like other nerites, it does not reproduce in freshwater. It is hardy and easy to keep, but may escape if the tank is not covered.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters similar to N. natalensis: temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 5-15. A tank with natural algae is preferable. Feed with vegetables and calcium supplements. Beware of fish that attack tentacles. It can live in groups without issues.

##### [Boivin's lace plant](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-boivinianus)
**Aponogeton boivinianus** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
Boivin's lace plant is a bulbous plant with wavy translucent leaves, very decorative for freshwater aquariums.
Aponogeton boivinianus is characterized by its strongly wavy submerged leaves, light green translucent, 20-40 cm long. The bulb is elongated and produces fibrous roots. The veins are parallel and clearly visible. The inflorescence is an emergent spike bearing small white flowers. The plant has seasonal growth and goes dormant after flowering. It prefers soft, acidic water. In aquariums, it forms a nice bush.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 40cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: VU
Moderately difficult, requires soft water (GH <8, KH <4) and acidic pH (5.5-7.0). Temperature 22-28 °C. Moderate to intense lighting. CO₂ recommended. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Avoid high nitrates. A rest period of 2-3 months at 15-18 °C is beneficial. Propagation by seeds or bulb division. Leaves are fragile, avoid burrowing fish.

##### [Madagascar lace plant](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-madagascariensis)
**Aponogeton madagascariensis** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
The Madagascar lace plant is a bulbous plant remarkable for its translucent net-like leaves, highly prized in aquascaping.
Aponogeton madagascariensis has an elongated bulb from which petiolate submerged leaves emerge. The leaves are oval to lanceolate, with a very visible network of veins giving a lace-like appearance. They are 20-50 cm long and 5-10 cm wide. The plant produces an emergent spike inflorescence with small white flowers. It goes dormant after flowering. In aquariums, it requires soft, acidic water. Growth is seasonal. Propagation is by seeds or bulb division.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7, GH 1-8
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 80L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: VU
A moderately difficult plant, it requires soft water (GH <8, KH <4) and acidic pH (5.5-7.0). Temperature 22-28 °C. Moderate to intense lighting is recommended. CO₂ supplementation is beneficial. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Avoid high nitrates (>20 mg/L). A rest period of 2-3 months at 15-18 °C is necessary after flowering. Propagation by seeds or bulb division. Beware of algae on delicate leaves.

##### [Ulva aponogeton](/encyclopedia/aponogeton-ulvaceus)
**Aponogeton ulvaceus** — Aponogetonaceae · plant
A plant with large, wavy light green leaves resembling sea lettuce, very decorative in the aquarium.
Aponogeton ulvaceus is a plant with a tuberous rhizome. Its leaves are broad, wavy, soft green, reaching up to 50 cm in length. They are translucent and very decorative. The plant produces a flower stalk with white flowers. It grows quickly under optimal conditions. Like A. crispus, it may enter a dormant period. It is ideal as a background plant in large aquariums.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 150L, Size 50cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Similar to A. crispus: moderate to intense lighting, rich substrate, soft to moderately hard water, pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 22-28°C. Enjoys CO2 and fertilizers. A winter dormant period is recommended. Beware of burrowing fish that may uproot the tuber. Not demanding but performs best with regular care.

##### [Powder blue tang](/encyclopedia/acanthurus-leucosternon)
**Acanthurus leucosternon** — Acanthuridae · fish
A surgeonfish with a bright blue body, white head, and yellow fins. Very beautiful but demanding in care.
The powder blue tang has an electric blue oval body, a white head with a black band through the eye, and yellow dorsal and anal fins. It reaches up to 25 cm. It is very active and requires a large swimming space. It is sensitive to skin diseases like ich. In the aquarium, it can be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. Its caudal spine is very sharp.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 400L, Size 25cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 400 L, very stable seawater (salinity 1.023–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Herbivorous, feed with algae and enriched foods. Very sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Quarantine is highly recommended. Avoid aggressive tankmates. A powerful protein skimmer is essential.

##### [Coral beauty angelfish](/encyclopedia/centropyge-bispinosa)
**Centropyge bispinosa** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Small orange and blue dwarf angelfish with vertical stripes. Very colorful and popular.
The coral beauty angelfish grows up to 10 cm. Its body is bright orange with vertical blue stripes. The dorsal fin is edged in blue. It is an active and curious fish, but can be territorial towards other dwarf angelfish. It is generally compatible with soft corals but may nip at some hard corals. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 200 liters. Omnivorous: algae, brine shrimp, mysis, spirulina. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid other dwarf angelfish in a small tank. Can be kept alone or in pairs. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Blue tang](/encyclopedia/paracanthurus-hepatus)
**Paracanthurus hepatus** — Acanthuridae · fish
A surgeonfish with a royal blue body and yellow tail, made famous by the film Finding Nemo. Popular but requires a large aquarium.
The blue tang has a compressed oval body, bright blue with a black band from the eye extending along the back. Its caudal fin is bright yellow. It reaches up to 30 cm. It is active and swims in schools in the wild. In the aquarium, it is generally peaceful but can become territorial. It is sensitive to ich and skin diseases. Its caudal spine is sharp. It needs a large volume to swim.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 3/5, Min tank 300L, Size 30cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Aquarium of at least 300 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Avoid aggressive tankmates. Quarantine is recommended. Regular water changes and a protein skimmer are important. Keep nitrates below 5 mg/L.

##### [Emperor angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-imperator)
**Pomacanthus imperator** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Large royal angelfish with bright colors: blue and yellow with stripes. Highly prized but requires a large aquarium.
The emperor angelfish grows up to 40 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white and blue stripes. Adults have a bright blue body with yellow stripes and a blue head. The dorsal fin is yellow. It is a territorial and aggressive fish towards other angelfish. It is sensitive to diseases. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 600L, Size 40cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 600 liters. Omnivorous: sponges, algae, mysis, brine shrimp. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid other angelfish and shy fish. Requires a varied diet. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Semicircle angelfish](/encyclopedia/pomacanthus-semicirculatus)
**Pomacanthus semicirculatus** — Pomacanthidae · fish
Large angelfish with blue and yellow colors and a semicircular pattern. Less known than the emperor but equally beautiful.
The semicircle angelfish grows up to 35 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white and blue stripes. Adults have a bright blue body with yellow stripes and a characteristic semicircular spot on the flank. The dorsal fin is yellow. It is a territorial and aggressive fish towards other angelfish. It is sensitive to diseases. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 4/5, Min tank 500L, Size 35cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 500 liters. Omnivorous: sponges, algae, mysis, brine shrimp. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid other angelfish and shy fish. Requires a varied diet. Captive breeding rare.

##### [Green chromis](/encyclopedia/chromis-viridis)
**Chromis viridis** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small bright green fish forming large schools. Ideal for community reef aquariums.
The green chromis grows up to 10 cm. Its body is bright green with bluish reflections. The fins are translucent. It is a peaceful fish that lives in schools. In aquariums, it is active and swims in open water. It is sensitive to stress if kept alone. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate prepared by the male.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 200L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 200 liters for a school of 6. Omnivorous: plankton, brine shrimp, mysis, flakes. Compatible with all peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive fish. Keep in groups of at least 5-6 to reduce stress. Captive breeding possible.

##### [Three-stripe damselfish](/encyclopedia/dascyllus-aruanus)
**Dascyllus aruanus** — Pomacentridae · fish
Small white fish with three vertical black bands. Very active and territorial despite its size.
The three-stripe damselfish grows up to 10 cm. Its body is white with three vertical black bands. The fins are white. It is a very active and territorial fish, especially towards other damselfish. It can be aggressive in a small tank. It lives in small groups in the wild. It reproduces by laying eggs on a substrate.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, GH 8-12, Salinity 1.02-1.025
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 150L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 150 liters. Omnivorous: brine shrimp, mysis, algae. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid shy fish. Can be kept in groups if tank is large. Territorial, introduce last. Breeding possible.

### Central America

##### [Mexican Molly](/encyclopedia/poecilia-mexicana)
**Poecilia mexicana** — Poeciliidae · fish
The Mexican Molly is a hardy and easy-to-keep fish, often used in aquariums. It adapts to various water conditions.
Poecilia mexicana reaches 8-10 cm. Its body is elongated, gray-green with silvery reflections. Males have a gonopodium. Females are rounder. This fish is peaceful and gregarious. It swims at all levels. It tolerates brackish water. It is a livebearer that breeds easily. Several color varieties have been selected.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8.5, GH 10-25
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 80L, Size 8cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A minimum 80 L tank is recommended. Water can be soft to hard (GH 10-25, KH 10-20), pH 7.0-8.5, temperature 24-28°C. Salt addition is tolerated. Moderate filtration and dense vegetation are appreciated. Feed flakes, pellets and blanched vegetables. Keep a group of 4-6 individuals. Avoid aggressive fish. Perform 20% weekly water changes.

##### [Molly](/encyclopedia/poecilia-sphenops)
**Poecilia sphenops** — Poeciliidae · fish
The molly is a robust and easy fish, often confused with the guppy but larger and stockier.
Poecilia sphenops reaches 6-10 cm. The body is stocky, the head broad. Wild coloration is gray-green with bluish reflections. Cultivated varieties are black (black molly), golden, marbled. The fins are well developed. It is an ovoviviparous fish. It is peaceful, active, and lives in groups. It can be kept in brackish water. It grazes on algae. Males are smaller and more colorful than females.
Parameters: Temperature 25-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 15-25
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 80L, Size 10cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 80 L for a group. Water should be hard (GH 15-25), alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5), temperature 25-28°C. Good filtration. Addition of salt (1 teaspoon per 10 L) recommended for cultivated varieties. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, vegetables, algae. Prolific. Compatible with other hard water fish (platies, swordtails). Avoid acidic water. Sensitive to diseases if water is too soft.

##### [Sailfin molly](/encyclopedia/poecilia-velifera)
**Poecilia velifera** — Poeciliidae · fish
The sailfin molly is a peaceful and elegant fish, recognizable by its large sail-like dorsal fin.
Poecilia velifera is a species of fish in the family Poeciliidae, native to Mexico. Males have a highly developed dorsal fin, hence their name. They grow up to 12 cm. They are ovoviviparous, easy to breed in aquariums. They prefer slightly brackish water and well-planted tanks.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 100L, Size 12cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Keep in groups of at least 3. Tank minimum 100L. Hard water, pH 7.5-8.5, temperature 24-28°C. Add aquarium salt (1 tsp per 10L) to mimic brackish water. Varied diet: flakes, brine shrimp, vegetables.

##### [Swordtail](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-hellerii)
**Xiphophorus hellerii** — Poeciliidae · fish
The swordtail is an easy ovoviviparous fish, recognizable by the male's caudal sword, very popular in aquariums.
Xiphophorus hellerii reaches 10-14 cm (male with sword). The male has a sword-like extension on the caudal fin. The female is larger and without sword. Wild coloration is olive green with a red lateral stripe. Cultivated varieties are very diverse (red, green, black, marbled). It is an active, peaceful fish, but males can be territorial with each other. It lives in groups. It sometimes jumps.
Parameters: Temperature 24-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 100L, Size 14cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
A tank of at least 100 L for a group. Water should be hard (GH 10-20), alkaline (pH 7.0-8.0), temperature 24-28°C. Good filtration. Plants to hide fry. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, vegetables, artemia. Prolific. Compatible with other hard water fish (molly, platies). Avoid aggressive species. Males may fight, provide a ratio of 2-3 females per male.

##### [Platy](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-maculatus)
**Xiphophorus maculatus** — Poeciliidae · fish
The platy is a small freshwater fish popular in aquariums, easy to keep and breed.
The platy typically reaches 4-6 cm. It has a robust body and a rounded caudal fin. Males are smaller and have a gonopodium. Many color varieties exist. It is a peaceful and schooling fish. It is ovoviviparous, giving birth to live fry.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 10-20
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 5cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
The platy is very easy to keep. A tank of at least 60 liters is recommended for a small group. Ideal temperature 22-26°C, pH 7.0-8.0, moderate hardness. It accepts all types of food: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. It is peaceful and gets along with other similar-sized fish. It prefers a planted tank with open swimming areas. Gentle filtration is sufficient. Regular water changes are important.

##### [Variable platy](/encyclopedia/xiphophorus-variatus)
**Xiphophorus variatus** — Poeciliidae · fish
The variable platy is a small, colorful and hardy fish, ideal for beginners.
Xiphophorus variatus is a freshwater fish species in the family Poeciliidae. It is very popular in aquariums due to its ease of breeding and many color varieties. Males are smaller and more colorful than females. They grow up to 6 cm. They are ovoviviparous.
Parameters: Temperature 22-26°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 60L, Size 6cm, Diet omnivore
IUCN status: LC
Minimum group of 5. Tank 60L. Neutral to slightly alkaline water, pH 7-8, temperature 22-26°C. Omnivorous diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp. Dense plants to hide fry.

##### [Red Nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-reclivata)
**Neritina reclivata** — Neritidae · invertebrate
The Red Nerite is a colorful freshwater snail, very effective for algae control in aquariums.
Neritina reclivata has a rounded shell of 1-2 cm, often bright red to orange with dark bands. The body is light. It is active and moves slowly. It feeds on algae and biofilm. Like other nerites, it does not reproduce in freshwater. It is very hardy and easy to keep. It can be kept with peaceful fish and shrimp. Its bright color makes it a decorative element.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8.5, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Parameters: pH 7.0-8.5, temperature 22-28°C, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. Minimum tank size 20 liters. Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Nitrates max 30 ppm, phosphates max 1 ppm. Diet: algae, wafers, vegetables. Compatible with most fish. Avoid snail predators. No reproduction in freshwater. Can be kept alone or in groups.

##### [Virgin Nerite](/encyclopedia/neritina-virginea)
**Neritina virginea** — Neritidae · invertebrate
The Virgin Nerite is a small freshwater snail very popular in aquariums for its algae-cleaning ability.
Neritina virginea has a globular shell of 1-2 cm, variable color (black, brown, green) with dot or stripe patterns. The body is dark gray. It is an active snail that moves on hard surfaces. It feeds mainly on algae and biofilm. It does not reproduce in freshwater, as its larvae require brackish water. It is an excellent cleaner for planted tanks. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 6-12
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 2cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Water parameters: pH 7.0-8.0, temperature 22-28°C, GH 6-12, KH 3-8. A minimum tank size of 20 liters is suitable. Sensitive to nitrates (max 30 ppm) and phosphates (max 1 ppm). Good oxygenation is recommended. Diet should include natural algae, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables. It can coexist with peaceful fish and other snails. Avoid snail-eating fish (botias, etc.). It does not require a group, but multiple individuals are beneficial. Reproduction does not occur in freshwater.

##### [Creeping ludwigia](/encyclopedia/ludwigia-repens)
**Ludwigia repens** — Onagraceae · plant
Creeping ludwigia is a stem plant with oval green to reddish leaves. Widely used for backgrounds or midgrounds.
Leaves are opposite, oval, 2–4 cm, olive green to copper red depending on lighting. The stem is thin and can creep or grow upright. Growth is fast. It produces small yellow flowers when emersed. Can be pruned to encourage branching. Lower leaves tend to drop if light is insufficient.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 2/5, Min tank 30L, Size 30cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate to high lighting (0.7 W/L) is needed for red colors. A nutrient-rich substrate and liquid fertilization rich in iron are recommended. CO2 addition improves growth and coloration. Easy to propagate by cuttings: cut a stem and replant. Compatible with most fish. Avoid strong currents.

##### [Eared salvinia](/encyclopedia/salvinia-auriculata)
**Salvinia auriculata** — Salviniaceae · plant
Small floating fern with ear-shaped leaves covered in hydrophobic hairs. Fast growth, ideal for shading the aquarium.
Salvinia auriculata is a floating fern that forms dense mats on the surface. Its leaves are 1-3 cm, oval and slightly folded, with water-repellent hairs. Fine roots hang underwater. It multiplies quickly by fragmentation. Very effective at absorbing nutrients and reducing algae. Beware of overgrowth.
Parameters: Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 10L, Size 3cm, Diet photosynthetic
IUCN status: LC
Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10. Moderate to bright lighting. No CO2. Remove excess regularly. Propagation by natural division.

### South Africa

##### [Zebra nerite snail](/encyclopedia/neritina-natalensis)
**Neritina natalensis** — Neritidae · invertebrate
Very decorative freshwater snail with black and yellow stripes, excellent algae cleaner.
Neritina natalensis is a medium-sized snail (2-3 cm) with a globular shell adorned with black and yellow bands. It is very active and spends its time grazing algae on glass, rocks, and plants. It does not reproduce in freshwater (larvae need brackish water). It is peaceful and compatible with most fish and shrimp.
Parameters: Temperature 22-28°C, pH 7-8, GH 5-15
Care: Difficulty 1/5, Min tank 20L, Size 3cm, Diet herbivore
IUCN status: LC
Easy to keep: temperature 22-28°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 5-15. A mature tank with algae is ideal. Feed with algae, blanched vegetables, and calcium supplements. It may starve if the tank is too clean. Avoid snail-eating fish. Do not expose to copper-containing medications.