Heterandria Formosa

[ann]

Has anyone kept the delightful fish, Heterandria Formosa? I would like to start a species tank of them in a 10 gallon tank. I'm going to keep males only because I am not breeding. Any experiences, advice, or observations will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
Ann

[devonjohnsgard]

I haven't personally... but from what I heard, they are a cooler water fish and can or prefer some brackish water.

[Carl]

I have kept these before, but not in large numbers.
Most of my experience with these goes back to the late 60s to early 70s where I honestly did not follow the best procedures (I was a child then).
I knew these as mosquito fish, whether this is a correct name I cannot say.

As Devon noted these did well even outdoors in climates that were cool in winter, but not cold.
My grandfather even had a well like pond that was full of them (along with anacharis/elodea plants).

These seemed to thrive with very little extra care.
I would treat these as you would a molly

Here are a couple articles about molly care:
www.americanaquariumproducts.com/Livebearers.html
www.aquarium-pond-answers.com/2007/10/mollies-in-aquariums.html

Carl

[ann]

Thank you both. I never even heard of Heterandria until a few years ago when I was looking for fish for a nano aquarium. I always loved the common guppy, but I knew that they were weakened from years of inbreeding and poor care. The Heterandria reminded me of them, and that they would good for a beginner.I still have tons of research to do and a lot to buy, but I'm determined to continue. I intend to use APA whenever possible for my supplies. Thank you again for your input.
Ann

[ann]

I've seen them called pygmy livebearer, dwarf livebearer, least and lesser killifish, dwarf top minnow, and mosquito fish. Confusing.
Ann

[Carl]

Feb 24, 2016 23:16:27 GMT -5 ann said:

I always loved the common guppy, but I knew that they were weakened from years of inbreeding and poor care. The Heterandria reminded me of them, and that they would good for a beginner.

I agree.
Often breeding what some retailers call "feeder" guppies with any one of the inbred fancy guppies will provide a genetically more healthy guppy (at least from my experience), although not quite as spectacular looking.

Also, the Endler's livebearer is popular for the those who want a healthy version of the guppy

www.americanaquariumproducts.com/Livebearers.html#endlers

Carl

[ann]

I hope that they do breed common guppies with stronger strains to improve the viability of their becoming an aquarium fish instead of just feeder fish. I've seen the Endler's and have been tempted to include them in the Het tank,, but am not sure if that's a good idea.
Ann