Humpback Limia (Limia nigrofasciata)

Family: Poeciliidae

Humpback Limia — a Poeciliidae from the Caribbean, peaceful; males chase persistently, give females cover. Reaches 3.9–5.7 cm; groups of 6+; more females than males. 25–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
25–28 °C
pH
7–8
GH hardness
9–19 dGH
Adult length
3.9–5.7 cm
Minimum tank
39 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; males chase persistently, give females cover
Origin
the Caribbean

Species overview

Poeciliidae species Limia nigrofasciata comes from the Caribbean. Hardy, productive and unpretentious — the gateway fish that still deserves decent water. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 3.9–5.7 cm. Groups of 6+; more females than males. Stable warm water, floating plants and regular small feeds cover 90% of its needs. Maintain 25–28 °C at pH 7–8. A rewarding species for the aquarist who reads before buying.

Native biotope

Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Groups of 6+; more females than males
Diet
Omnivore; flakes plus vegetable matter and small live foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Other peaceful community fish — Ignore the endless fry
Avoid keeping with
  • Fin-nippers — Constant harassment exhausts females

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Subtle external differences
Breeding method
Continuous breeder in warm, hard, alkaline water