Connie’s blue-eye - Pseudomugil connieae

Scientific name: Pseudomugil connieae

Common name: Connie’s blue-eye

Family: Pseudomugilidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 6 cm (1.97 - 2.36 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7.5 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 12 - 18°N (214.29 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 25 - 28 °C (77 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Oceania

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

Pseudomugil connieae, commonly known as Connie’s Blue-Eye, thrives on a high-quality flake diet supplemented with live and frozen foods. Occasional feedings of brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms will enhance their coloration and overall health. Additionally, natural algae growth in the aquarium can serve as an extra food source, mimicking their diet in the wild.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Connie’s Blue-Eye is endemic to Papua New Guinea, where it inhabits fast-flowing tributaries and streams in tropical regions. These habitats are characterized by clear, oxygen-rich waters with dense aquatic vegetation, which provides shelter and breeding grounds. When replicating their natural environment, maintaining good water flow and planting dense vegetation is beneficial.

Sexing

Males of this species develop a yellow breast and a thin yellow stripe running along their body. They also exhibit elongated dorsal fins, making them more vibrant and distinguishable from the shorter-finned females. Males tend to display their bright colors more prominently during courtship.

Breeding

Pseudomugil connieae is an egg scatterer, meaning they do not provide parental care. To encourage breeding, set up a heavily planted tank with dense vegetation, Java moss, or spawning mops, which will provide safe spots for eggs.

Spawning typically occurs in the early morning, with females laying a few eggs each day over several weeks. Once eggs are deposited, it is advisable to separate the parents from the breeding tank to prevent predation. The eggs take approximately two weeks to hatch, and once the fry become free-swimming, they can be fed infusoria, finely crushed flake food, or newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

With proper care and stable water conditions, Pseudomugil connieae can live for up to 10 years, making them a long-lived species compared to other small tropical fish.

Tank Setup and Compatibility

Connie’s Blue-Eye thrives in a densely planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots. The addition of floating plants helps diffuse light, creating a more natural and comfortable environment for them. They prefer moderate water flow, mimicking the fast-moving streams they originate from.

This species is peaceful and social, making them ideal for community aquariums. They should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals to encourage natural schooling behavior. Compatible tank mates include:

• Ember Tetras (Hyphessobrycon amandae)
• Honey Gouramis (Trichogaster chuna)
• Chili Rasboras (Boraras brigittae)
• Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus)

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 25 - 28 °C (77 - 82.4°F)
• pH Range: 7.5 - 8.0
• Water Hardness: 12 - 18°dGH (214.29 - 321.43 ppm)
• Filtration: A gentle but effective filter is recommended to maintain high water quality.

Short Description

Pseudomugil connieae is a visually stunning and peaceful species perfect for planted aquariums. Their blue eyes and yellow-striped bodies make them a striking addition to any community setup. They thrive in small schools and prefer a well-oxygenated, planted environment. With proper care and stable water parameters, they can be a rewarding species for any aquarist interested in rare and exotic nano fish.