Pseudomugilidae
Pseudomugil furcatus is a splendid freshwater fish, which should be kept in groups. It has very interesting behavior and reproduces very easily if kept in the right conditions. Forktail blue-eye is still often called by the old name of Popondetta furcata.
Distribution: Saffia Valley, Papua New Guinea.
Habitat: freshwater.
In nature this species inhabit areas of dense vegetation, so the aquarium must be decorated with many aquatic plants. Floating plants will also be appreciated, as they will help shade the light. It is also better to avoid too light backgrounds, which could annoy the fish. This species is sensitive to changes in water conditions, therefore it should absolutely not be placed in immature aquariums. The water should be hard and with a slightly alkaline or alkaline pH, as well as well oxygenated and with a gentle current.
Pseudomugil furcatus must stay in groups of at least 8-10 individuals. If the combination is carefully studied, other species can be included. It does well with Tateurndina ocellicauda, with which it was found in the wild. Alternatively, other small melanotenids such as Iriatherina werneri and gobies.
By closely mimicking their natural environment, you can create a thriving biotope aquarium that highlights the beauty and natural behavior of Pseudomugil furcatus.
The male differs from the female by its brighter colors and fins, which grow wider. The body is predominantly gray or brownish, with a bright yellow belly. The fins have yellow-green edges and the caudal one in particular is surrounded by two colored lobes, with transparent central rays. The scales are bordered by a darker color. The eyes are blue, which is why this fish is also known as the Forktail blue-eye .
In Nature, Forktail blue-eye mainly consumes zooplankton, other small invertebrates and crustaceans, and food of plant origin.
Include plenty of live plants like Java fern and Vallisneria. Floating plants can provide shaded areas, which the fish enjoy. Add some aquatic mosses such as Java moss to create a more natural environment. Add pieces of driftwood and smooth river rocks to create hiding places and to give the tank a natural appearance.
In the aquarium, even if Pseudomugil furcatus will accept much of the dry food offered, its diet should be varied and integrate a good component of live and frozen foods.
The males chase the females among the vegetation and display their finnage. The few eggs are usually laid in the morning and anchored to aquatic vegetation by a thin filament, in the same way as other rainbow fish. They do not show parental care, so the eggs should be removed.
The young should be fed with infusoria until they can accept brine shrimp.
