The Pygmy Sunfish, scientifically known as Elassoma spp., is a freshwater fish that belongs to the family Elassomatidae. This small but fascinating fish has gained popularity among aquarium enthusiasts due to its unique characteristics and behaviors.
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One of the most interesting facts about the Pygmy Sunfish is its ability to thrive in a variety of aquatic environments. According to a study published in the Journal of Fish Biology, Pygmy Sunfish can be found in swamps, heavily vegetated sloughs, and small sluggish streams, usually over mud . This adaptability makes them an excellent choice for aquariums with diverse water conditions.
The scientific name Elassoma is derived from the Greek words “elasson,” meaning small and “soma,” meaning body. This refers to the small size of the Pygmy Sunfish, which typically grows to a length of 2–3 cm.
In the market, Pygmy Sunfish are also known as Everglades Pygmy Sunfish or Bluebarred Pygmy Sunfish, depending on the species . These names refer to the fish’s distinctive color patterns and habitats.
Pygmy Sunfish are bottom-dwellers that prefer shallow water with abundant submerged and/or emergent vegetation . They feed on worms, crustaceans, and small invertebrates, making them a great choice for community aquariums with a varied diet.
Pygmy Sunfish are generally peaceful and laid-back, making them an excellent choice for community aquariums. However, they can be territorial and may exhibit aggressive behavior during breeding season.
Pygmy Sunfish have a distinctively upturned mouth and a rounded caudal fin. They lack a lateral line and have a relatively large eye . These unique features make them a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts.
Fun Facts
- Pygmy Sunfish are one of the smallest freshwater fish species in North America .
- They are able to survive in a variety of water conditions, including acidic and alkaline environments .
- Pygmy Sunfish are able to breed in captivity, making them a popular choice among aquarium breeders .
Pygmy Sunfish have been a part of the aquarium trade for decades. David Starr Jordan first described them in the late 19th century. Since then, they have become a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts due to their unique characteristics and behaviors.
Pygmy Sunfish Key Information
One of the most striking features of the Pygmy Sunfish is its vibrant coloration. These small fish display a range of colors, including shades of blue, red, and yellow, which can vary depending on the species and environmental conditions. The Everglades Pygmy Sunfish, for example, has a distinctive blue bar running along its sides, while the Bluebarred Pygmy Sunfish has a bright blue stripe running along its back. These colorful markings make the Pygmy Sunfish a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts.
| Family | Elassomatidae |
| Origin | North America, specifically in the southeastern United States |
| Price | $5-$15 per individual, depending on the species and location |
| Common Names | Everglades Pygmy Sunfish, Bluebarred Pygmy Sunfish, Pygmy Sunfish |
| Variants | Several species, including Elassoma evergladei and Elassoma boehlkei |
| Ideal Tank Size | 10-20 gallons, depending on the number of individuals and tankmates |
| Water Parameters | pH 6.5-8.5, temperature 65-85°F (18-29°C), hardness 5-20 dGH |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years in captivity, depending on water quality and diet |
| Full Size | 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm), depending on the species |
| Natural Environment | Freshwater swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams |
| Behavior | Peaceful, but can be territorial during breeding season |
| Habitat Preference | Shallow water with abundant vegetation and hiding places |
| Aquarium Decoration | Live plants, rocks, and driftwood to provide hiding places and visual interest |
| Ideal Tank Mates | Small, peaceful fish such as neon tetras, harlequin rasboras, and dwarf gouramis |
| Fish to Avoid | Aggressive or fin-nipping fish, such as tiger barbs and fin-clipping tetras |
| Best Foods/Diet | Small invertebrates, such as brine shrimp and bloodworms, as well as commercial flake food |
| Disease | Prone to fungal infections and parasites, such as ich and velvet disease |
| Sex-Switch | No, but sexing can be challenging due to the small size of the fish |
| Gender Differences | Males have a slightly larger dorsal fin and more vibrant coloration than females |
| Care Level | Moderate, requiring regular water changes and a balanced diet |
| Breeding Level | Challenging, requiring a separate breeding tank and specific water conditions |
Ideal Tankmates for Pygmy Sunfish
When it comes to choosing tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish, it’s essential to select species that are compatible and won’t harass or compete with them for food. Pygmy Sunfish are generally peaceful and laid-back, but they can be territorial and may exhibit aggressive behavior during breeding season. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose tank mates that are calm, gentle, and won’t disturb them.
Here are ten ideal tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish, each with its unique characteristics and requirements.
Purple Moscow Guppies
Purple Moscow Guppies are a popular choice for community aquariums, and they make excellent tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish. They are peaceful, easy to care for, and add a pop of color to the tank.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purple Moscow Guppies | $5-$10 | Easy | Peaceful | 3-5 years | 1-2 inches |
Cardinal Tetras
Cardinal Tetras are another popular choice for community aquariums, and they are compatible with Pygmy Sunfish. They are schooling fish and should be kept in a group of at least six individuals.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardinal Tetras | $5-$10 | Easy | Schooling | 5-7 years | 1-2 inches |
Rummy Nose Tetras
Rummy Nose Tetras are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and make excellent tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish. They are schooling fish and should be kept in a group of at least six individuals.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rummy Nose Tetras | $5-$10 | Easy | Schooling | 5-7 years | 1-2 inches |
Pygmy Corydoras
Pygmy Corydoras are small, peaceful catfish that are easy to care for and make excellent tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish. They are good for cleaning up food debris from the substrate.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pygmy Corydoras | $5-$10 | Easy | Peaceful | 5-7 years | 1-2 inches |
Scarlet Badis
Scarlet Badis are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and make excellent tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish. They are good for adding a pop of color to the tank.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scarlet Badis | $10-$15 | Easy | Peaceful | 5-7 years | 1-2 inches |
Swamp Darters
Swamp Darters are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and make excellent tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish. They are good for adding a unique species to the tank.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swamp Darters | $10-$15 | Easy | Peaceful | 5-7 years | 1-2 inches |
Bluefin Killifish
Bluefin Killifish are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and make excellent tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish. They are good for adding a unique species to the tank.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluefin Killifish | $10-$15 | Easy | Peaceful | 5-7 years | 1-2 inches |
Heterandria Formosa
Heterandria Formosa are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and make excellent tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish. They are good for adding a unique species to the tank.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heterandria Formosa | $10-$15 | Easy | Peaceful | 5-7 years | 1-2 inches |
Yellow Fin White Clouds
Yellow Fin White Clouds are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and make excellent tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish. They are good for adding a unique species to the tank.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yellow Fin White Clouds | $5-$10 | Easy | Peaceful | 5-7 years | 1-2 inches |
Mosquito Fish
Mosquito Fish are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and make excellent tank mates for Pygmy Sunfish. They are good for adding a unique species to the tank.
| Common/Market Names | Price Range | Care Level | Behavior | Life Span | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mosquito Fish | $5-$10 | Easy | Peaceful | 5-7 years | 1-2 inches |
FAQs about Pygmy Sunfish
How often should I feed my Pygmy Sunfish?
They should be fed 2-3 times a day, only as much as they can consume within a few minutes. Overfeeding can lead to digestive issues and poor water quality.
What is the best way to breed Pygmy Sunfish?
Breeding Pygmy Sunfish requires a separate breeding tank with a temperature range of 75-85°F (24-29°C) and a pH range of 6.5-7.5. The tank should be equipped with plenty of hiding places and plants to provide shelter for the eggs and fry.
Can Pygmy Sunfish be kept in a pond?
Yes, Pygmy Sunfish can be kept in a pond, but it’s essential to ensure that the pond is well-filtered and maintained. The pond should be at least 4 feet deep and have plenty of hiding places and plants to provide shelter for the fish.
How do I sex Pygmy Sunfish?
Sexing Pygmy Sunfish can be challenging, but males tend to have a slightly larger dorsal fin and more vibrant coloration than females. Females tend to be more rounded in the belly and have a more subdued coloration.
Can Pygmy Sunfish be kept with snails?
Yes, Pygmy Sunfish can be kept with snails, but it’s essential to ensure that the snails are not too large for the fish to eat. Some snails, like mystery snails, can be a good choice for a community tank with Pygmy Sunfish.
How often should I change the water in my Pygmy Sunfish tank?
The water in a Pygmy Sunfish tank should be changed regularly, about 10-20% every week. This will help maintain good water quality and prevent the buildup of toxins.
Can Pygmy Sunfish be kept in a tank with a sand substrate?
Yes, Pygmy Sunfish can be kept in a tank with a sand substrate, but it’s essential to ensure that the sand is not too deep. A depth of about 1-2 inches is recommended to prevent the fish from getting stuck in the sand.
How do I treat diseases in Pygmy Sunfish?
Diseases in Pygmy Sunfish can be treated with antibiotics or antifungal medications. It’s essential to quarantine the affected fish and provide plenty of hiding places and plants to reduce stress.
Can Pygmy Sunfish be kept in a tank with a water heater?
Yes, Pygmy Sunfish can be kept in a tank with a water heater, but it’s essential to ensure that the heater is set to a temperature range of 65-85°F (18-29°C). Sudden changes in temperature can be stressful for the fish.
How do I introduce Pygmy Sunfish to a new tank?
When introducing Pygmy Sunfish to a new tank, it’s essential to acclimate them slowly to the new water conditions. This can be done by floating the unopened bag in the tank for about 15-20 minutes before releasing the fish.
