Moema piriana

Adults of this fish can reach 12 cm in length, distinguished by their elongated, slender bodies. They possess large dorsal, anal, and caudal fins. Their coloration is silvery with an attractive blue sheen, adorned with numerous burgundy speckles arranged in horizontal rows. The dorsal fin and tail are red with dark spots, while the anal fin is blue, also with similar neat speckles. Sexual dimorphism in Moema piriana is not clearly pronounced; males and females are almost impossible to distinguish. It is noteworthy that while in natural conditions the lifespan of this fish is limited by the existence of temporary water bodies, in aquarium conditions it can live up to 1.5 years. In such a case, the fish continues to grow and can reach a size of up to 16 cm.

The species is endemic to the Amazon River basin in Brazil. It inhabits tropical freshwater bodies, preferring the bottom layers of water. In nature, these fish have adapted to seasonal environmental changes, which is characteristic of egg-laying killifish inhabiting temporary pools.

For these fish, it is recommended to create a species-specific aquarium, which can also potentially be used for breeding. Moema piriana gets along well with its own kind. Co-habitation with other peaceful fish species is also possible.

Moema piriana is rarely found in aquariums outside its historical range. Most often, this species is traded among aquarists on the South American continent, and only occasionally is it supplied to Europe. Maintaining these fish in an aquarium is quite challenging. Optimal environmental conditions require a narrow range of temperature values, as well as pH and GH parameters. Any deviations in water parameters can negatively affect the fish's development. An additional difficulty is the need for live or frozen food. Dry foods cannot serve as a full-fledged substitute for fresh, protein-rich products. The aquarium decor can be arbitrary. However, the fish will feel most comfortable in a shallow tank with a thick layer of soft, dark substrate resembling peat, preferably covered with a layer of fallen leaves and twigs. Lighting should be subdued. The presence of aquatic plants is not mandatory, but the use of undemanding floating species is permissible.

In its natural habitat, it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, and other small aquatic organisms. In aquarium conditions, the diet should consist mainly of high-quality live or frozen foods, such as bloodworms, daphnia, or glassworms. Dry foods are accepted reluctantly and cannot form the basis of the diet.

Moema piriana reaches sexual maturity at 3–4 months of age. For reproduction, the fish need a soft substrate where they lay their eggs. An important stage is that the subsequent development of the eggs must occur in a dry substrate. The substrate is removed from the water and thoroughly dried, then placed in a container and stored in a dark place for 4–5 months. This procedure mimics the dry season in their natural habitat, when water bodies dry up, and the eggs remain in the soil layer, awaiting the rains. After the specified period, the substrate with the eggs is re-submerged in water. Soon after, the fry appear. It is worth noting that "dry" incubation can last up to 8 months without harm to the health of the eggs. Sources: FishBase

The species is considered extremely difficult to keep and sensitive to water parameters. The main health problems arise from deviations in the chemical composition of the water from natural conditions or from violations of the temperature regime. Prevention involves maintaining a stable environment and minimizing stress factors, as the immunity of individuals in captivity is often weakened.

Acquiring this species is associated with high risks due to the difficulty of adaptation to aquarium conditions. When choosing, attention should be paid to the fish's activity, the integrity of its fins, and the absence of external damage or film on its scales. It is recommended to clarify the keeping conditions in the store with the seller, as stress during transportation and changes in water parameters often lead to the death of individuals.