Craterocephalus Fulvus Aquarium Fish - Vibrant, Peaceful Freshwater Addition

Craterocephalus Fulvus, also known as the Golden-spotted Blue-eye, is an eye-catching, peaceful species perfect for community aquariums. Learn more about their care.

Craterocephalus Fulvus (Golden-spotted Blue-eye) Aquarium Fish

The Craterocephalus Fulvus, often referred to as the Golden-spotted Blue-eye, is a stunning species native to Australia and ideal for freshwater aquariums. With its shimmering golden spots and vibrant blue accents, this peaceful species can thrive in community setups, making it a perfect choice for aquarium enthusiasts. Known for their calm demeanor and beautiful coloration, these fish can bring a touch of elegance to any tank.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the care, feeding habits, and general requirements for maintaining healthy Craterocephalus Fulvus in your aquarium:

Key Characteristics:

• Common Name: Golden-spotted Blue-eye

• Scientific Name: Craterocephalus Fulvus

• Family: Craterocephalidae

• Origin: Australia

• Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length

• Lifespan: 3-5 years with proper care

• Temperament: Peaceful and active

• Coloration: Shiny, translucent body with golden spots, accented with blue hues around the eyes

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C) – Stable temperatures are crucial for their wellbeing. Ensure the aquarium is heated consistently.

• pH Level: 6.5 to 7.5 – Slightly acidic to neutral water is ideal.

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (dGH: 4-12)

• Water Movement: Moderate to gentle water flow. These fish thrive in calm waters, though a mild current is acceptable.

• Filtration: Efficient filtration is essential, as Craterocephalus Fulvus is sensitive to poor water quality. Use a gentle filter to avoid strong currents.

Tip: Regular water changes (about 25-30% every 1-2 weeks) are necessary to maintain optimal water conditions and keep your fish healthy.

Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a small group of Golden-spotted Blue-eyes. Larger tanks (40 gallons and above) are better for a more diverse community.

• Aquascaping: Include plenty of plants (live plants are ideal), rocks, and driftwood. This species enjoys areas of natural cover but also needs space to swim.

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel works best for the substrate, as this fish may nibble at the bottom for food.

• Lighting: Moderate lighting is optimal, replicating their natural habitat. Avoid excessively bright lights.

Tank Mates:

• Compatibility: Craterocephalus Fulvus is peaceful and works well in community aquariums. They can coexist with a variety of non-aggressive species, such as:

  • Tetras (e.g., Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras)

  • Corydoras Catfish

  • Guppies, Platys, and other peaceful livebearers

  • Rainbowfish and Rasboras

• Avoid: Aggressive fish or larger predatory species that may intimidate or prey on them. Ensure all tank mates have similar water and temperature requirements.

Tip: Keep them in groups of 5 or more to help reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior.

Feeding Habits:

• Diet: Craterocephalus Fulvus is omnivorous and will thrive on a varied diet. Provide:

  • High-quality flake food or pellets

  • Live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms

  • Vegetables like blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods to ensure a balanced diet

• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts 2-3 times a day. They will often eat whatever is available, but avoid overfeeding as they can easily become overweight.

Tip: Offer a varied diet to promote health and ensure that the fish get a balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Care and Maintenance:

• General Care: The Golden-spotted Blue-eye is relatively easy to care for, provided that water quality is maintained. Regular water changes and careful monitoring of temperature and pH levels are vital.

• Health Issues: These fish are generally hardy, but they may be susceptible to common freshwater fish diseases, including white spot (Ich) or fungal infections. Keeping the tank clean and quarantining new arrivals can prevent outbreaks.

• Breeding: Craterocephalus Fulvus can breed in aquariums. To encourage breeding, provide them with plenty of plant cover where they can lay eggs. Separate males and females to prevent stress and allow natural courtship behavior. The eggs will hatch in 2-3 days.

Tip: If breeding, be prepared for fry care, as the young may need special food (such as infusoria or baby brine shrimp) to thrive.

Final Thoughts:

Craterocephalus Fulvus is an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Their peaceful nature, stunning appearance, and adaptability make them a favorite among aquarium hobbyists. By providing proper care and the right tank conditions, you can enjoy these beautiful fish for years to come. Whether you're looking to create a community tank or add a splash of color to your aquarium, the Golden-spotted Blue-eye will not disappoint.