Description

The Limia perugiae, commonly known as the Perugia’s Limia, is a unique and hardy livebearing fish native to the freshwater rivers and streams of Hispaniola, specifically in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. This fish belongs to the Poeciliidae family, which also includes guppies and mollies. Known for its adaptability, intriguing coloration, and active behavior, Limia perugiae is a popular choice among aquarists looking to add a distinctive livebearer to their collection.
Appearance
Perugia’s Limia displays a striking, understated beauty with a pale to golden-yellow body accented by dark, vertical bars along its sides. These bars vary in prominence and number between individuals, but they typically appear from the gill plate down to the caudal peduncle (near the tail fin). Males are generally more colorful and smaller than females, with blue or green iridescence on their bodies and a more slender frame. Females, in contrast, are larger and rounder, especially when gravid, reaching around 2.5 inches in length, whereas males stay closer to 2 inches. The subtle patterning and metallic sheen of Limia perugiae make them stand out, especially in well-lit aquariums.
Habitat and Tank Requirements
In the wild, Limia perugiae inhabits shallow, slow-moving freshwater areas with dense vegetation and ample cover. In captivity, these fish thrive in setups that replicate their natural habitat with plenty of plants, driftwood, and hiding spots.
Tank Setup
Size: A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended, though larger tanks are ideal, especially if housing a group.
Substrate: A fine gravel or sandy substrate mimics their natural environment and helps plants grow better, adding to the aesthetics and comfort of the fish.
Décor: Incorporate live plants like Java moss, Anubias, and floating plants, along with driftwood or rock caves, to provide ample hiding spots and areas for exploration.
Water Parameters: They are quite hardy and adaptable to various water conditions. They prefer stable water with regular maintenance.Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)
pH: Slightly alkaline, between 7.0 and 8.0
Hardness: Moderate to hard water
Diet and Feeding
Limia perugiae are omnivores with a diet that should include a variety of plant and animal matter. They eagerly accept flake foods, high-quality pellets, and algae wafers, but it’s important to supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They also appreciate blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and spinach. Feeding a balanced diet ensures vibrant colors and good health.
Temperament and Compatibility
Perugia’s Limia are peaceful and social fish, best kept in groups of six or more. When kept in groups, they display natural behaviors and establish a social hierarchy, which helps reduce any minor territorial behavior among males. These fish are well-suited for community tanks with other non-aggressive species, such as small tetras, guppies, mollies, Corydoras, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. Avoid pairing them with large or aggressive tank mates that may stress or outcompete them for food.
Lifespan and Care
With proper care, Limia perugiae can live 3 to 5 years. They are hardy and relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner and experienced aquarists alike. Regular water changes, stable parameters, and a varied diet are key to keeping them healthy and preventing common illnesses.
Breeding
Limia perugiae are livebearers, meaning they give birth to fully formed fry instead of laying eggs. They breed readily in captivity and can quickly populate a tank if conditions are favorable. To encourage breeding, keep the water clean, feed a nutritious diet, and provide plenty of hiding spots for the fry. Females give birth every 4 to 6 weeks, and a single female can produce 20 to 40 fry at a time. To improve fry survival rates, include dense vegetation or separate the fry into a breeding tank, as adults may eat the young.
Special Considerations
Social Behavior: Males can exhibit mild territorial behavior during breeding, but this is usually manageable in a well-decorated tank.
Plant Compatibility: These fish are known to nibble on algae and detritus, making them beneficial for planted tanks as they help keep plant leaves clean.
Tank Maintenance: Despite their adaptability, maintaining high water quality is essential to avoid stress and disease. Regular water changes and monitoring are key for long-term health.
Final Thoughts
Limia perugiae is a charming and hardy livebearer that adds activity and visual interest to community aquariums. With their understated beauty, easy care requirements, and fascinating social dynamics, they are an excellent choice for aquarists looking to diversify their livebearer collection. In a well-maintained environment with compatible tank mates, Perugia’s Limia can thrive and bring a natural elegance to any freshwater setup.