Golden Wonder Killifish (Aplocheilus lineatus) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 20 gallons and 72-79°F. A golden, striped surface hunter from India and Sri Lanka that is big enough to swallow neon-sized fish. It is a jumper that stays at the top, so it needs a very secure lid and tankmates that are much too large to eat.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Aplocheilus lineatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Aplocheilidae |
| Origin | India and Sri Lanka |
| Adult size | 4-4.5 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-79°F |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 |
| Temperament | Predatory toward small fish; males squabble |
| Social behavior | Pair or small group |
| Swim level | Top |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: live and frozen foods, some pellets |
| Typical lifespan | 3-4 years |
Quick tips
- Use a tight lid; it is a strong jumper.
- Do not keep with small fish or shrimp.
- Floating plants give it cover and calm males.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi