Redfin Blue-eye
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
[edit] Overview
A critically endangered species, this tiny 1-inch (2.5 cm) survives in shallow artesian springs in hot, dry, grassy country where the air temperatures range from 51 degrees C to 3 C (124 to 37 degrees F).
Fewer than 3,000 Redfin Blue-eyes are believed to survive in about five springs. It fails to compete well with the exotic Mosquito Fish (Gambusia holbrooki) which has been introduced into some waters in its native range.
Other threats include well-drilling in artesian springs and the impact of grazing animals on the shallow habitat favored by this species.
Bush Heritage Australian, a non-profit land preservation organization, has recently acquired a lease on the lands where this species is found to help ensure its protection.
Family: Pseudomugilidae
Other common name(s):
- Red-fin Blue Eye
- Redfinned Blue-eye
- RFBE
Native range:
Habitat: According to the Australian Government: "The RFBE currently exists in five small, shallow freshwater springs at Edgbaston Springs in the Aramac district of central western Queensland. Edgbaston Springs is located in upper Aramac Creek which is part of the Cooper Creek/Lake Eyre drainage basin (Unmack & Wager 2006)."
Maximum length: 2 cm (1 in)
Water: Freshwater 16 °C (289 K, 61 °F) - 30 °C (303 K, 86 °F)
[edit] Feeding
Unknown diet, but it may be an opportunistic omnivore.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Peaceful. Related to the rainbowfishes.
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
Reportedly easy to breed in the aquarium.
[edit] Notes
See: Saving Australia's Smallest Fish
AU Govt Species Profile (Ed: Excellent report.)
| Common name | Redfin Blue-eye +, Red-fin Blue Eye +, Redfinned Blue-eye +, and RFBE + |
| Family | Pseudomugilidae + |
| Genus | Scaturiginichthys + |
| Maximum length | 1 in + |
| Native range | Australia + |
| Specific name | vermeilipinnis + |
| Water max temp | 303 K (30 °C, 86 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 289 K (16 °C, 61 °F) + |
| Water type | Freshwater + |