Originally Posted by
Au SL
In this unique hobby (killifish), we don't really bring in fish but eggs. As for live stock, Ronwill would you enlighten the group and comment on this?
Urhm! Since Au need to wake me out of hibernation...
The Fp. sjoestedi or SJO is majestic and imposing, by virtue of it's size. The color pigments on the body, fin and tails are uniquely demarcated with striking patterns. I had them about 2 years back and believe that Kwek Leong has seen them too. At 2 inches, they're still considered 'young adults' and is said to reach a size of 4 inches easily.
I received these from Nonn when he was still in the USA and they arrived in water-filled film canisters, not peat, amongst other species. Given our postal delivery system, I'd advise against live stock, unless hand-carried or expressed via courier services, which would make them very expensive.
Going through my mail archive and a killie-log that I maintained briefly, the eggs landed on 11th May 2001 and I logged my observations as follows;
"The parcel arrived this morning and what joy it is, to see them under
the stereo microscope. Some are in advanced development stage while curiously, some are still clear. For the eyed-up fellas, I can see them wriggling occasionally, perhaps in response to the bright twin lights.... if only I can take a snap-shot. Following, is the breakdown of what I see of each specie;
Fundulopanchax sjoestedi or SJO
Total egg count : 20
Eyed-up eggs : 3
Light developed eggs (like sprinkled with pepper) : 15
Clear eggs (like no development) : 1
Bad eggs (fungal or unfertilized) : 1 Confirmed unfertilized"
After about 2 wks of water incubation in light aeration and twice weekly 20% water change with aged water, 10 frys hatched successfully... about the size of new-born guppies... yes... they're huge! and will take BBS immediately. No further frys hatched.
Given the right 'start-up' foods, they grow fast and are gregarious amongst themselves. A hierarchy or pecking order is quickly established and it's wise to separate the smaller siblings, lest they become the next meal.
For those who're game to bring the SJO in, I'd say a 3 week incubation is close, factoring our weather.
I'm back & keeping 'em fingers wet,
Ronnie Lee
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