Green Panchax

Aplocheilus blockii is the smallest species in the genus Aplocheilus; males reach only 5 cm. Its green-gold shimmering body is covered with rows of small red spots, and on top of its head is the bright spot familiar from the genus. With its flat back and upturned mouth, it is a typical surface hunter. It lives in ditches, rice paddies and slow streams in southwestern India; it lays its eggs on plants and breeds easily.

• At least 40 liters for one male and two females; a large surface area is preferred.
• Floating plants and dense planting along the edges; an open area at the surface.
• 23–26°C, soft to moderately hard water, weak flow.
• A tight lid is essential; it jumps when startled.
• 25% water change weekly.

Carnivorous. It takes floating flakes and granules, but should be supplemented with live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae and small bloodworms. It prefers to take food from the surface or near it.

A calm surface fish that leaves species of its own size alone. Males display to each other. It preys on fry and very small fish that fit in its mouth.

Good companions: medium-sized peaceful fish: tetras, harlequin rasboras, corydoras, otocinclus, dwarf gouramis.

Avoid: fish under 2 cm and fry, baby shrimp, large and aggressive species.