Limia melanogaster

Black-bellied Limia

Classification

Poeciliidae

Distribution

Jamaica.

Habitat

It is usually found living in small streams.

Maximum Standard Length

Male 1.6″ (4cm). Female 2″ (5cm).

Aquarium SizeTop ↑

24″ x 12″ x 12″ (60x30x30cm)

Maintenance

Prefers a tank with densely planted areas but also plenty of open swimming space hence the relatively large recommended tank size. Also appreciates some floating cover.

Water Conditions

Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)

pH: 7.5-8.5

Hardness: 20-30 dH

Diet

Very unfussy. Will accept most foods

Behaviour and CompatibilityTop ↑

Peaceful and can be combined with other small hard water tolerant fish.

Sexual Dimorphism

The male is smaller and possesses a gonopodium.

Reproduction

Easy. Reproduces in the usual livebearer fashion. Males can be incredibly vigorous in their pursuit of females, so the breeding tank should be as large as possible with heavily planted areas in which the females can take shelter. The addition of some floating plants is also a good idea. The adult fish are less cannibalistic than many livebearer species and can be left in the aquarium if so desired. Each brood may contain 20-50 fry, and gestation takes between 4-6 weeks. The fry are large enough to take newly hatched brine shrimp or powdered flake from birth, although they take several months to exhibit adult colouration.

NotesTop ↑

This species was originally classified in the genus Limia before this was made a sub-genus of Poecilia. Confusingly they have been reclassified once more into Limia, but are still referred to as members of Poecilia in much of the available literature.

L. melanogaster is endemic to Jamaica. It is not often seen for sale in the hobby.