Libro Radda

A. C.
RADDA
E. PÜRZL
Colour Atlas of Cyprinodonts of the

Rain Forests of Tropical Africa
We dedicate this book to

Dr. h. c. J. J. SCHEEL in appreciation
of his outstanding work on african
Cyprinodonts

Preface
Among the killifishes the Cyprinodonts of the tropical Africa are certain to
belong to the most gorgeously coloured fishes that we know. These 146
species of the rain forests of West and Central Africa listed in this volume,
make up almost precisely a third of the extent of all the species of the
hitherto known and described oviparous toothcarps. The remaining two
thirds are mainly spread over savanna areas of Africa as well as in South
and Central America and in the more temperate zones of North America.
Only a few species are found in Europe and Asia.
The predominant majority of these killifishes dealt with in this book are
dependant ecologically on the rain forest and there are only a few forms
that were able to inhabit the neighbouring savanna areas. Both rain forests
and coral reefs shelter most of the fauna species and among the smaller
fishes of running waters the killies surely represent one of the most frequently
found groups having abundant species.
In this volume only species of the rain forests are taken up and beyond this,
only those inhabitants of the savanna whose distribution areas at least
partly reach to the rain forests (z. B.: E. spilargyreius, E. bifasciatus, Aply.
normani). Strictly inhabitants of savanna as for instance, A. banforense,
Aply. pfaffi, Aply. lamberti and others are excluded. Since publication of
Scheels ,Rivulins of the Old World", of late the first guiding monography
on killifishes, nearly twenty years have passed in which time numerous
trips for both studying and collecting to the various regions of West and
Central Africa have been undertaken. Due to these journeys not only many
species could be found and described but our knowledge of the distribution,
ecology and biology of these fishes greatly increased.
On this occasion some people representing all those persons who have
contributed to the knowledge of killifishes of the rain forests within this
period are to be named in alphabetical order: Dr. V. ETZEL, Cuxhaven,
Dr. J. H. HUBER, Paris, Dr. M. POLL, Tervuren, Dr. R. ROMAND, Dakar
and Dr. J. J. SCHEEL, St. Laurent du Var.
We thank Mr. R. H. WILDEKAMP for many valuable discussions and for
providing the drawings of fishes in this book. Likewise a great help was
provided by the part on Cyprinodontidae of the recently published Volume
2 of the „Catalogue of Freshwater Fishes of Africa" which has been written
by the authors WILDEKAMP, ROMAND and SCHEEL.
Furthermore we are grateful to Mrs. T. RADDA, Vienna, for translating some
chapters into English and to Mr. Fred WRIGHT, Bwlch, Wales, for kindly
correcting the English version.
After analysing all the literature at our disposal, the results of our own
investigations - which had hitherto been published in numerous single
papers - were summarized in this monography. We hope to offer all persons
and institutions who have interest in this fascinating group of fishes, either
for scientific or private reasons, a useful tool which will be suitable to answer
all questions on taxonomy, systematics, distribution, ecology and biology of
the Cyprinodonts of the rain forests of West and Central Africa.
Vienna, in January 1987 A. C. RADDA

E. PÜRZL
2
Geography, Climate and Vegetation
The rainforests of tropical Africa are spread over a large area beginning in the
West in southern Guinea and Sierra Leone throughout Liberia, Ivory Coast,
Ghana, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ecuatorial Guinea, Gabon, Congo,
Cabinda to Zaire in the Southeast. There are, however, some species which
are also living in savanna areas and therefore they reach to Senegambia,
Guinea Bissau, Mali, Bourkina Faso (former Upper Volta) and to many other
northern States (Fig. 1). The socalled Dahomey gap in southeastern Ghana,
Togo and Benin interrupts the western part and the central african part of the
tropical rainforest belt.
River systems are very important in respect to the evolution of new forms and
they are barriers for many species of the cyprinodonts (Fig. 2).
Fig. 2: Main river systems.
3
Fig. 3: Rainfall.
Rainfall and temperature depend on the relief in a high degree. The rainfall is
highest at the coast but diminishes steadily northwards and towards the in-
l and, respectively. It is also higher in mountainous regions. The Dahomey gap
i s due to the fewer rainfall in this area.
The distribution of the different types of vegetation is mainly influenced by the
variation of rainfall. Rainforest needs an annual rainfall of at least 2000 mm.
Areas of 1000 to 1500 mm of annual rainfall are grown with Guinea savanna. If
Fig. 4: Rainforest, Savanna and Relief.
the amount of rain is below 1000 mm, only dry or Sudan savanna can grow,
and landscapes with rainfall of 500 mm or below are developing a vegetation
of the Sahel savanna (Fig. 3).
The coastal region is characterized by estuaries, creeks and swamps and is
mainly covered by the typical Mangrove. The coastal lowlands with their abun-
dant rainfall which drains away very slowly are covered with a dense swamp
forest with a high density of different plant species. Towards the inland the
evergreen rainforest is spread. Only on very few places this rainforest is still a
primary one, mostly replaced by secondary forest with a much lower species
composition. The inland plateau with its rainforest has lower temperatures
and less rainfall. In mountainous regions of higher elevations a quite different
plant association - the socalled highland savanna - with mountain forest or
tall grass vegetation can be found.
The bordering parts of the inland are grown with Guinea savanna. Trees can
usually be observed in wet parts along rivers and the characteristic plants are
different tall grass species. Sudan and Sahel savanna show only grass
elements and thorns or scrub, respectively (Fig. 4).
Habitats, Collecting and Protection

The habitats of the toothcarps of the rainforests are mainly streams, brooks
and rivers and occasionally pools and ponds. The Epiplatys species are sur-
face dwellers hiding under floating leaves of aquatic plants. Aphyosemion
species usually can be found on quiet parts of their habitats. The lampeyes are
schooling in the fast running Darts of brooks and rivers (Fig. 5).
habitat of E. sexfasciatus, A. splendopleure, A. calliurum and P. similis

Fig. 5, a crow u: n tour,.
5
Foerschichthys, Adamas and some other dwarf forms prefer swamp habitats
with stagnant water
The water temperatures depend on the respective sea level. In the coastal area
temperatures of 23 to 26 °C can be measured, whereas in the inland plateau
habitats the temperatures are 21 to 24 °C. At higher elevations the water
temperatures are even lower and values of 17 to 21 °C can be observed during
day and night times on the one hand, and in the different seasons of the year
on other hand.
Conductivity values of the natural habitats are very often equal to that of destil-
l ed water and usually vary between 20 and 50 µS . The pH lies in most cases
20
below 5 and 6 and thus is far beyong the neutral value. Measurements of the
total hardness show values lower than 1 German degree in most of the places.
For fish collecting a licence is needed in many western and central african sta-
tes. Non annual species can be found easily in all seasons, but the collection
of annual species is very difficult, however, and depends on the different sea-
sons of the year. Rain and dry seasans are different in the respective parts of
the rainforest (see Fig. 6).
Fig. 6: Rainfall in the different seasons in West and Central Afrika.
During the past twenty years an encreasing destruction of the rainforest in

many states of the area under investigation could be observed. This is due to
the destructive impact of man to his natural environment. As mentioned abo-
ve, killifishes are ecologically bound to rainforests and the destruction of their
habitats could lead to the extinction of species in the near future - above all
the relict species with a small distribution area. Therefore we should try to
keep enough fish of the respective species in our tanks in order to preserve
them for the next generations also.
Classification, Systematics and Taxonomy

The cyprinodontiforms, commonly known as killifishes or toothcarps, are a
l arge and diverse group of teleostean fishes with a pantropical and temperate
Laurasian distribution, living mainly in freshwaters. The first classification of
cyprinodonts was proposed in 1895 by GARMAN, including oviparous and
viviparous groups. Until 1980 the oviparous group of the family Cyprinodonti-
dae was currently divided in eight subfamilies as listed in the following table:
6
Family Cyprinodontidae
Subfamily Fundulinae
Genus Fundulus, Lucania, Leptolucania, Oxyzygonectes, Cubanichthys,
Chriopeoides, Valencia, Empetrichthys, Crenichthys, Profundulus, Adinia
Subfamily Cyprinodontinae
Genus Cyprinodon, Megupsilon, Floridichthys, Jordanella, Cualac, Aphanius,
Subfamily Lamprichthyinae
Genus Lamprichthys
Subfamily Orestiatinae
Genus Orestias
Subfamily Pantanodontinae
Genus Pantanodon
Subfamily Procatopodinae
Genus Aplocheilichthys, Procatopus, Hypsopanchax, Plataplochilus,
Hylopanchax, Congopanchax
Subfamily Rivulinae
Genus Rivulus, Trigonectes, Rivulichthys, Pterolebias, Rachovia, Austro-
fundulus, Cynolebias, Aphyosemion, Nothobranchius, Adamas, Epiplatys,
Aplocheilus, Pachypanchax, Callopanchax
Subfamily Fluviphylacinae
Genus Fluviphylax
I n 1981 Dr. Lynne R. PARENTI published a comprehensive work based mainly

on specific differences in anatomical features of the sceleton in most of the
genera of all groups of the cyprinodonts. She found out that the Cyprinodonti-
formes are a monophyletic group, but using methods of a cladistic phylogene-
tic systematics, she could show that the former family Cyprinodontidae is non-
monophyletic. According to her investigations she proposed a new compre-
hensive classification as follows:
Order Cyprinodontiformes BERG, 1940

Suborder Aplocheiloidei, PARENTI, 1981
Family Aplocheilidae BLEEKER, 1860
Family Rivulidae MYERS, 1925
Suborder Cyprinodontodei, PARENTI, 1981
Section 1
Family Profundulidae HOEDEMAN and BRONNER, 1951
Section 2
Division 1
Family Fundulidae JORDAN and GILBERT, 1882
Division 2
Sept 1
Family Valenciidae, PARENTI, 1981
Sept 2
Superfamily Poecilioidea, PARENTI, 1981
Family Anablepidae GARMAN, 1895
Subfamily Anablepinae GARMAN, 1895
Subfamily Oxyzygonectinae, PARENTI, 1981
Family Poeciliidae GARMAN, 1895
Subfamily Poeciliinae GARMAN, 1895
Subfamily Fluviphylacinae ROBERTS, 1970
Subfamily Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928
7
Superfamily Cyprinodontoidea PARENTI, 1981
Family Goodeidae JORDAN, 1923
Subfamily Empetrichthyinae JORDAN, EVERMANN and CLARK, 1930
Subfamily Goodeinae JORDAN, 1923
Family Cyprinodontidae GILL, 1865
Subfamily Cubanichthyinae, PARENTI, 1981
Subfamily Cyprinodontinae GILL, 1865
Tribe Orestiini BLEEKER, 1860
Tribe Cyprinodontini GILL, 1865
The genera treated in this book belong either to the former Rivulinae and Pro-
catopodinae, respectively, or to the Aplocheilidae and Aplocheilichthyinae,
using PARENTI's classification. We followed in our book the latter one. The
family Aplocheilidae can be divided into two groups of genera: Aplocheilus,
Pachypanchax, Epiplatys, Foerschichthys and probably Episemion on the one
hand and Nothobranchius, Aphyosemion, Adamas, Fundulosoma and Prono-
thobranchius on the other hand. We referred both groups to the subfamilies
Aplocheilinae and Nothobranchiinae, respectively.
The Aplocheilichthyinae comprise the socalled lampeye genera Aplocheilich-
thys, Procatopus, Plataplochilus, Hypsopanchax, Hylopanchax and Congo-
panchax. They are sister groups of the viviparous subfamily Poeciliinae and
the oviparous and monotypic subfamily Fluviphylacinae, forming together the
family Poeciliidae.
Among the subgenera of the genus Epiplatys only Aphyoplatys seems to be

j ustified. Pseudepiplatys (annulatus) shows no significant differences in its
meristics with Epiplatys. Parepiplatys may be considered as synonymous with
Lycocyprinus according to the close relationship of the two type species.
The highest number of species belongs to the genus Aphyosemion. Until
recently 12 subgenera had been described. The subgenera Callopanchax and
Archiaphyosemion are distributed in the western rainforests and adjacent
savannas. There are, however, certain differences between the 8 species of the
l atter subgenus. A. geryi, A. roloffi and A. liberiense show a red colour pattern
with yellow/red margins of the unpaired fins. Their chromosome numbers are
n - 20 to 21 and the standard lenghs are below 40 mm. A. guineense, A. viride,
A. maeseni, A. jeanpoli and A. petersii have no red pigmentation on the body
sides and fins; their chromosome numbers are n = 19 to 21, and standard
l engths are more then 40 mm (to 60 mm in some species). Therefore we sug-
gest a new subgenus Scriptaphyosemion n. subgen. (type species: A. geryi).
Diagnosis as mentioned above, consisting of A. geryi, A. roloffi and A. liberien-
se. The members of this subgenus seem to be related to the A. calliurum
group of the easternwards distributed subgenus Mesoaphyosemion.
There is also one representative of the subgenus Paraphyosemion, which can
be found westwards of the Dahomey gap, namely A. walkeri. The other species
are occuring eastwards of the gap.
The subgenus Chromaphyosemion comprises the A. bivittatum group and oc-

curs in the coastal rainforests from Togo to Gabon. Diapteron was created to
comprise the A. georgiae group by the authors in the rank of a genus. It does
not seem, however, justified to separate it from Aphyosemion and therefore
8
we lowered its rank to a subgenus. The subgenera Paludopanchax, Fundulo-
panchax, Gularopanchax and Raddaella are comprising annual forms occu-
ring from the Dahomey gap to Gabon, Congo and most probably also to the
Zaire river basin. Kathetys contains only three species in Nigeria/Cameroon to
the Central African Republic and Aphyosemion s.s. also reaches Zaire with
most of its species.
Description of Aphyosemion polli sp. nov.

During our collecting trip to Zaire in 1982 we collected at location Nr. 26, 5 km North of
N'jili, the international airport of Kinshasa in a swampy brook fishes of the socalled A.
schoutedeni (non BLGR. 1920) POLL, 1952. Aquarium strains of this fish were distribu-
ted at that time in Europe by A. DUBOIS.
Material:
3 adult males from our collection
Musee Royal de I'Afrique Centrale (MRAC) Nr. 77345 Environs de Leopoldville (Stanley
Pool) coll. by A. DUBOIS in 1951: 1 specimen
MRAC Nr. 103583-103591 Stanley Pool coll. by A. WERNER: 8 specimen
MRAC Nr. 80150-55 Leopoldville coll. by A. DUBOIS: 5 specimen
MRAC Nr. 80138 Leopoldville coll. by Van de WEYER: 1 specimen
MRAC Nr. 73150 Congo (aquarium strain) don. by E. ROLOFF: 1 specimen
Morphometrical and meristical data of the holotype and two patatypes as percentages
of the standard lenght with standard deviations of the mean values: Total length 134
(1,0), praedorsal length 69 (1,5), praenal length 55 (0,6), praeventral length 45 (0,6), body
height 20 (0,6), head length 28 (0,6), diameter of eye 7 (0,0) length of snout 6 (1,0). There
are 9 (0,0) rays in the dorsal fin and 15 (0,0) rays in the anal fin. The first dorsal finray is
over the 9 to 10 th anal finray and there are 29 to 31 scales in a longitudinal line along the
sides of the body. The colour pattern of A. polli n. sp. can be seen on page 124 of this
book. This species was karyotyped by SCHEEL in 1972. He found n = 11, A == 18,8%.
This karyotype is quite different from that of all other species of the A. elegans group.
We dedicate this new species to Prof. Dr. M. POLL, Tervuren.
Explanations to the following part on the individual species

The succession of the genera correspond to the classification of PARENTI. The succes-
sion of the species within the respective genera is according to their distribution areas
beginning in the West and continuing to the East and Southeast, respectively. We tried
to put the respective closely related species in this order.
Distribution: The red dots on the maps correspond to hitherto known finding places. A
greater number of dots usually points to a higher frequency of the occurrence of the
respective species, while fewer ore even one dot mean that this species is rare or repre-
sents a relict species.
Systematic relations: The most closely related forms or form are named. Subspecies:
The type locality of each subspecies is mentioned.
Variability refers partly to the morphometrical and meristical datas, partly to the colour
pattern, which can be more or less vary among the individual species in a quite diffe-
rent way.
By syntopic occurrence the simultaneous occurrence of two or more species is under-
stood.
The water temperatures of the individual habitats are very essential for a proper mainte-
nance and breeding of the killis.
Biology: The data refer to the reproduction and length of the incubation period of the
embryos.
Epiplatys spilargyreius ( DUMERIL, 1861)

Suborder: Aplocheiloidei PARENTI, 1981 Family: Aplocheilidae BLEEKER, 1860
Subfamily: Aplocheilinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Epiplatys GILL, 1862
First Description: Arch. Mus. Hist. Nat. 10, 258
Type Locality: "Eaux douces de le Côte des Mandingues (Afrique occidentale)"; presently
Senegambia
Synonyms: Poecilia spilargyreia DUMERIL, 1861; Haplochilus senegalensis STEINDACHNER,
1870; H. marnoi STEINDACHNER, 1881; H. s. acuticaudatus PELLEGRIN, 1913;
Panchax grahami decemfasciata PELLEGRIN, 1933
Meristics: D 7-10, A 15-19, S 26-29 Total Length: M 60 mm, F 50 mm;
Systematic Relationship: Probably related to E. fasciolatus and E. longiventralis
Subspecies: None
Distribution: From eastern Senegal to the White Nile drainage in Sudan, lower Zaire River and
coastal plains of southeastern Ghana
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. bifasciatus
Habitat: Small streams, brooks and swamps in the dry and humid savanna
Temperatures: 22-32 °C
Biology: Surface dwelling species with an incubation period of 10-14 days
Maintenance and Breeding: Difficult
10

Epiplatys bifasciatus (STEINDACHNER, 1881)

First Description: Sitzungsber. Akad. Wiss. Wien 83, 199
Type Locality: "Bahr el Seraf and Bahr el Gebel"; Nile system in central Sudan
Synonyms: Haplochilus bifasciatus STEINDACHNER, 1881; Haplochilus baudoni PELLEGRIN,
1922; Panchax taeniatus PFAFF, 1933; P. steindachneri SVENSSON, 1933; E. ndelen-
sis FOWLER, 1949
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to E. barmoiensis and E. chevalieri
Subspecies: None
Distribution: From Senegal to the upper Nile drainage and coastal savannas in Ghana, Togo and
Benin
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. spilargyreius
Habitat: Swamps, brooks and rivers of the guinean, grass, thorn and coastal savannas in Ivory
Coast, Ghana, Togo and Benin
Maintenance and Breeding: Easy
11

Epiplatys barmoiensis SCHEEL, 1968

First Description: Rivulins of the Old World 453
Type Locality: "Rokupr, western Sierra Leone"
Synonyms: E. matlocki BERKENKAMP, 1977; E. lokoensis BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1978
Meristics: D 89, A 16-17, S 27 Total Length: M 65 mm, F 50 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to E. bifasciatus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: From southwestern Sierra Leone to southwestern Liberia
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. annulatus, E. fasciolatus, E. dageti, A. liberiense
Habitat: Swamps and swampy parts of brooks in the coastal plains
Temperatures: 24-30 ° C
Biology: A non-annual species with an incubation period of 10-14 days
12

Epiplatys fasciolatus (GÜNTHER, 1866)

First Description: Cat. Fish. 6, 358
Type Locality: "Sierra Leone"
Synonyms: Haplochilus fasciolatus GÜNTHER, 1866; E. dorsalis MAYER, 1936; E. sexfasciatus
leonensis AHL, 1937; E. matlocki FOWLER, 1950; E. zimiensis BERKENKAMP, 1977;
E. f. huwaldi BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1978
Meristics: D 7-14, A 16-18, S 26-30 Total Length: M 90 mm, F 80 mm
Systematic Relationship: E. olbrechtsi is very closely related to E. fasciolatus and had been
considered as a subspecies of the former by some authors
Subspecies: E. f. tototaensis ROMAND, 1978 (t.t.: Totota, Liberia);
E. f. ruhkopfi BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1980 (t.t.: Zienzu/Soakoko, Central Liberia);
E. coccinatus BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1982 (t.t.: Belefuanai, Central Liberia);
E. f. josianae BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1983 (t.t.: Kenema, S. Leone);
E. f. puetzi BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1985 (t.t.: 20 km N Buchanan, Liberia)
Distribution: From Guinea Bissau to southern Liberia
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. njalaensis, A. roloffi/liberiense
Habitat: Rivers and brooks in the rainforest and derived savanna
13

Epiplatys njalaensis NEUMANN, 1976

First Description: Aquarien u. Terrarien 4
Type Locality: "Njala, Südwest-Provinz von Sierra Leone, etwa 4 Meilen nördlich von Mano
Geleben, Einzugsbereich des Yong river"
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 9-10, A 13-14, S 28 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 45 mm
Systematic Relationship: E. njalaensis and E. fasciolatus are sibling species with a sympatric
distribution
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Area around Njala and Zimi in southeastern Sierra Leone
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurence: E. fasciolatus, A. roloffi/liberiense
Habitat: Small rivers and brooks in the rainforest and derived savanna
14

Epiplatys olbrechtsi POLL, 1941

First Description: Rev. Zool. Bot. Afr. 34, 139
Type Locality: "Confluent de la petit rivière Masei et de la riv. Bon de Boan, affl. du fleuve Nuon
border area between Liberia and Ivory Coast
Synonyms: E. fasciolatus olbrechtsi DAGET, 1952; 1963
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related to A. fasciolatus and to the other members of the
E. fasciolatus complex
Subspecies: E. o. kassiapleuensis BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1977 (t.t.: W Elfenbeinküste, Man);
E. o. azureus BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1983 (t.t.: 20 km N Tapeta, Central Liberia);
E. o. dauresi ROMAND, 1985 (t.t.: Environs de Bouaké, Côte d'lvoire centrale)
Distribution: Nipoué, Cavally and Sassandra drainages in eastern Liberia and Western Ivory
Coast, respectivly
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: A. liberiense schmitti, A. maeseni, A. viride
Habitat: Rivers, brooks and swampy streams in the rainforest and guinean savanna
15

Epiplatys lamottei DAGET, 1954

First Description: Mem.I.F.A.N. 36, 317
Type Locality: "Simandou", southeastern Guinea
Synonyms: E. fasciolatus lamottei DAGET, 1954
Systematic Relationship: E. lamottei is a member of the E. fasciolatus complex
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper Niger drainage in southeastern Guinea and in the upper parts of the coastal
rivers in northern Liberia
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. hildegardae, A. maeseni, A. viride
Habitat: Brooks in the rainforest
Maintenance and Breeding: Moderately difficult
16

Epiplatys roloffi ROMAND, 1978

Suborder: Aplocheiloidei PARENT], 1981 Family: Aplocheilidae BLEEKER, 1860
First Description: DATZ 31, 368
Type Locality: "Salayea", northern Liberia
Synonyms: Epiplatys sp. "Braunrot" BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1978
Systematic Relationship: A member of the E. fasciolatus complex
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Probably a small distribution area around the type locality in northwestern Liberia
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. viride?
Habitat: Swamps, swampy streams and brooks in the rainforest
17

Epiplatys hildegardae BERKENKAMP, 1983

First Description: Rev. Zool. afr. 97, 856
Type Locality: "N'Zérékoré, Südguinea"; southern upper Guinea
Synonyms: E. hildegardae BERKENKAMP, 1978 (nom. nudum); E. olbrechtsi SCHEEL, 1968
(in part)
Meristics: D 10-12, A 15-18, S 28+2-3 Total Length: M 60 mm, F 50 mm
Systematic Relationship: A. hildegardae belongs to the E. fasciolatus group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Only known from its type locality
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurrence: E. lamottei, A. maeseni, A. viride, Aply. nimbaensis
Habitat: Unknown
Temperatures: Unknown
Biology: No experience
Maintenance and Breeding: Not yet kept alive
18

Epiplatys annulatus (BOULENGER, 1915)

Subfamily: Aplocheilinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Pseudepiplatys CLAUSEN, 1967
First Description: Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. 15, 203
Type Locality: "Maka, Sierra Leone"; southern Sierra Leone
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 7, A 13, S 28-29 Total Length: M 35 mm, F 20 mm
Systematic Relationship: Type species of the monotypic subgenus Pseudepiplatys
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal areas of western Guinea to western Liberia
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. fasciolatus, E. barmoiensis, A. occidentale, A. liberiense
Habitat: Swamps and swampy parts of shallow brooks in open savanna and rainforest
Biology: A non-annual species with an incubation period of about 10 days
19

Epiplatys chaperi (SAUVAGE, 1882)

Suborder: Cyprinodontoidei PARENTI, 1981 Family: Aplocheilidae BLEEKER, 1860
First Description: Bull. Soc. Zool. France. 7, 323
Type Locality: "Lagune d'Assinie à Couacrou"; southeastern Ivory Coast
Synonyms: E. etzeli BERKENKAMP, 1975
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the sympatric E. sheljuzhkoi and also to the allopatric
E. sexfasciatus
Subspeicies: E. ch. spillmanni ARNOULT, 1960 (t.t.: Nannafoues, Bouake),
E. ch. schreiberi BERKENKAMP, 1975 (t.t.: SO Kumasi, W-Ghana)
Distribution: Southern and central Ivory Coast, southern Ghana to southwestern Togo
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sheljuzhkoi, A. petersii, Aply. rancureli, Aply. normani
Habitat: Brooks and streams in the rainforest and derived savanna
20

Epiplatys sheljuzhkoi POLL, 1953

Type Locality: "Environs d'Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire"; Ivory Coast
Synonyms: E. chaperi sheljuzhkoi ARNOULT & DAGET, 1964, and many others
Systematic Relationship: Sibling species of E. chaperi
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal rainforest of southeastern Ivory Coast
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. chaperi, A. petersii, Aply. rancureli, Aply. normani
Habitat: Rivers and brooks of the rainforest
21

Epiplatys sexfasciatus GILL, 1863

Suborder: Aplocheiloidei PARENTI. 1981 Family: Aplocheilidae BLEEKER, 1860
First Description: Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phil. 136
Type Locality: "Gabon River (Ogowe)", Gabon
Synonyms: Haplochilus infrafasciatus GÜNTHER, 1966 (in part)
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to E. chaperi and also to E. esekanus
Subspecies: E. s. rathkei RADDA, 1971 (Kumba, Cameroon); E. s. togolensis LOISELLE, 1971
( Palime Togo); E. s. baroi BERKENKAMP, 1975 (Kribi, Cameroon)
Distribution: Southern parts of Togo, Benin, Nigeria, coastal plains in Cameroon, Equatorial
Guinea and northwestern Gabon
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. grahami, A. splendopleure, A. bivittatum, A. volcanum, A. loennbergi,
A. calliurum, P. similis, P. nototaenia
Habitat: Brooks in the coastal rainforests
22

Epiplatys esekanus SCHEEL, 1968

First Description: Rivulins of the Old World 185
Type Locality: "Brook 15 miles north of Eseka, near the Eseka-Yaounde-Edea crossing in
East Cameroon"
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 10, A 16, S 16-19 Total Length: M 65 mm, F 60 mm;
Systematic Relationship: A relict species closely related to E. sexfasciatus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Restricted area at the border between the coastal plains and the inland plateau
around the type locality in southwestern East Cameroon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. raddai
Habitat: Brooks of the rainforest at the western rim of the inland plateau
Biology: Non-annual species with an incubation period of 10-14 days
23

Epiplatys sangmelinensis (AHL, 1928)

First Description: Zool. Anzeiger 79, 118
Type Locality: "Sangmelima, Südkamerun am oberen Lobo-Fluß"
Synonyms: Panchax sangmelinensis AHL, 1928; P. nyongensis AHL, 1928
Meristics: D 8--1Q A 16-17, S 30-31 Total Length: M 70 mm, F 60 mm;
Systematic Relationship: Probably related to E. esekanus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper drainages of the Sanaga, Nyong and Dja rivers in southern Cameroon as well
as in the upper Ivindo system in northern Gabon and Congo
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: A. cameronense, A. batesii, A. splendidum, A. punctatum, H. stictopleuron
Habitat: Swamps and brooks in the rainforest of the inland plateau
24

Epiplatys berkenkampi NEUMANN, 1978

Subfamily: Aplocheilinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Epiplatys GILL. 1862
First Description: Aquarien and Terrarien 25, 125
Type Locality: "Bach von 10 cm Tiefe etwa 30 km südlich Lambarene an der Straße von Biguenia
nach Mora, Gabun", central western Gabon
Synonyms: Aplocheilus multifasciatus RADDA & HUBER, 1977
Systematic Relationship: According to his karyotype E. berkenkampi i s closely related to
E. sexfasciatus, but he is most likely to belong to the E. multifasciatus
group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Ogowe drainage of the plains in western Gabon
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. singa, A. exigoideum, A. primigenium
Habitat: Small rivers and brooks in rainforest and derived savanna
25

Epiplatys huberi RADDA & PÜRZL, 1981

First Description: Aquaria 28, 193
Type Locality: "25 km ONO N'dendé an der Straße nach Lébamba", central Gabon
Synonyms: Aplocheilus (E.) huberi RADDA & PÜRZL, 1981
Meristics: D 9, A 14-15, S 29-30 Total Length: 65 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to E. berkenkampi
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southwestern rim of the Du Chaillu mountains in central Gabon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: None
Temperatures: 20-24 °C I
26

Epiplatys longiventralis ( BOULENGER, 1911)

First Description: Ann. Mus. Nat. Hist. (8) 8, 266
Type Locality: "Swamps between Agwarba and Awka", southern Nigeria
Synonyms: Haplochilus longiventralis BOULENGER, 1911
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to E. biafranus, another relict species with a restricted
distribution area
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Between Enugu and Onitsha in the northern part of the former Biafra in
southeastern Nigeria
Variability: Low
Habitat: Swamps and stagnant parts of brooks in guinean savanna
27

Epiplatys biafranus RADDA, 1970

Type Locality: "Umgebung von Port Harcourt, Biafra-Nigeria", southeastern Nigeria
Synonyma: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the northernly distributed savanna form
E. longiventralis
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Between Owerri, Port Harcourt and Aba in southeastern Nigeria
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. splendopleure, A. calliurum
Habitat: Swamps, swampy parts of brooks and small streams in the rainforest
28

Epiplatys multifasciatus ( BOULENGER, 1913)

First Description: Bull. Soc. Nat. Luxembourg 43
Type Locality: "Kondoué, Kasai" southern Zaire
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to E. boulengeri, E. berkenkampi and E. phoeniceps
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Zaire river and Kasai river drainages in Zaire and the lower Oubangui river system in
Congo
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: Species of the A. elegans group
Habitat: Swamps, quiet parts of brooks and rivers of the rainforest
29

Epiplatys boulengeri (PELLEGRIN, 1926)

First Description: Rev. Zool. Afr. 14, 206
Type Locality: "Kidada, Mogenda, Tshimbu"; central Zaire
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Probably closely related to E. multifasciatus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Central Zaire, Congo and southeastern Gabon
Variability: Unknown
Syntopic Occurrence: A. rectogoense (SE Gabon)
Habitat: Brooks in the rainforest and guinean savanna
30

Epiplatys phoeniceps HUBER, 1980

First Description: Killi Revue Supplement 2, 12
Type Locality: "200 metres au sud du village Ignoli, soit 13 km au sud du village de
Débrouillé, dans un petit ruisseau assez courant, du Congo sepentrional, bassin
de la Sangha"
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 9-10, A 15-16, S 28-30+1-3 Total Length: M 60 mm, F 50 mm;
Systematic Relationship: A member of the E. multifasciatus group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Sangha river drainage in central eastern Congo
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurrence: A. elegans
Habitat: Brooks and streams in the rainforest
Maintenance and Breeding: No Batas published
31

Epiplatys mesogramma (HUBER, 1980)

First Description: Killi Revue Supplement 2, 6
Type Locality: "Marigot coupant une bretelle partant de Pisa pour rejoidre la route Mbaiki-
Mongoumba, République Centrafricaine" south of Bangui, Central African
Republic
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 9-10, A 15-17, S 27-28+2 Total Length: M 55 mm, F 45 mm;
Systematic Relationship: A member of the E. multifasciatus group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Hitherto only known from its type locality
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurrence: E. chevalieri, A. decorsei
Habitat: Swamps and brooks in the rainforest
Temperatures: No measurements
Biology: Unknown
32

Epiplatys chevalieri (PELLEGRIN, 1904)

First Description: Bull. Mus. Hist. Nat. 10, 222
Type Locality: "Brazzaville", Congo
Synonyms: Haplochilus chevalieri PELLEGRIN, 1904; H. nigricans BOULENGER, 1913
Systematic Relationship: No close relatives within the genus
Subspecies: Probably E. ch. nigricans can be considered as a subspecies
Distribution: Area around the Pool Malebe (former Stanley pool) in Congo and Zaire
(E. ch. chevalieri) and Ubangui river drainage in Zaire and Central African Republic
(E. ch. nigricans)
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: A. cognatum, A. christyi
Habitat: Swamps and swampy brooks of the rainforest
33

Epiplatys dageti POLL, 1953

Suborder: Cyprinodontodei PARENTI, 1981 Family: Aplocheilidae BLEEKER, 1860
Subfamily: Aplocheilinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Lycocyprinus PETERS, 1868
Type Locality: "Mare près de Port Bouet, 18 km d'Abidjan" Ivory Coast
Synonyms: Poecilia sexfasciata PETERS, 1864
Meristics: D 9, A 14-16, S 26-27 Total Length: M 55 mm, F 45 mm;
Systematic Relationship: Type species of the subgenus Lycocyprinus and probably a relative
of E. grahami and E. singa
Subspecies: E. d. monoviae DAGET & ARNOULT, 1964 (t.t.: Monrovia, Liberia)
Distribution: Coastal swamps from western Liberia to southeastern Ivory Coast
Variability: Low
Habitat: Swamps with stagnant water in the coastal savanna
34

Epiplatys grahami ( BOULENGER, 1911)

Subfamily: Aplocheilinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: ? Lycocyprinus PETERS, 1868
First Description: Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (8) 8, 267
Type Locality: "Lagos, in swamps; southwestern Nigeria"
Synonyms: Haplochilus grahami BOULENGER, 1911; E. nigromarginatus SCHULTZE, 1937
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related to E. singa
Subspecies: None
Distribution: From southeastern Benin, through southern Nigeria and Cameroon to
northwestern Equatorial Guinea
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. calliurum, Aply. macrophthalmus
Habitat: Swamps and swampy parts of small streams in the forests of the coastal plains
35

Epiplatys singa ( BOULENGER, 1899)

Subfamily: Aplocheilinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: ? Lycocyprinus PETERS, 1868
First Description: Ann. Mus. Congo Belge Zool. 1, 113
Type Locality: "Marais de Boma", lower Zaire
Synonyms: Haplochilus singa BOULENGER, 1899; Haplochilus ansorgii BOULENGER, 1911;
Haplochilus macrostigma BOULENGER, 1911; Panchax chinchoxoanus AHL, 1924;
P. ornatus AHL, 1928
Meristics: D 8-11. A 14-16, S 27-31 Total Length: M 60 mm, F 50 mm;
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related to E. grahami
Subspecies: E. s. ansorgii and E. s. macrostigma may be recognized as a subspecies in Gabon
and Congo, respectively
Distribution: Coastal plains of southwestern Gabon, southern Congo and in Bas Zaire province
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, E. berkenkampi, A. striatum, A. gabunense,
A. exigoideum, A. primigenium
Habitat: Swamps and quiet parts of brooks in the forest and wooded savanna
36

Epiplatys duboisi POLL, 1952

Subfamily: Aplocheilinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Aphyoplatys CLAUSEN, 1967
Type Locality: ''Leopoldville, petit ruisseau a faible courant près de N'Do" Kinshasa, Zaire
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Type species of the monotypic subgenus Aphyoplatys
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Drainage systems of the Nkéni, Alima, Vouma, Kouyou and Likoula rivers in eastern
Congo and in the lower Kasai and middle Zaire rivers in Zaire
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. chevalieri, A. formosus, A. (Raddaella sp.)
Habitat: Swamps, shallow and weedy parts of small brooks in the rainforest
37

Epiplatys callipteron RADDA & PÜRZL, 1987

Subfamily: Aplocheilinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Episemion RADDA & PÜRZL, 1987
First Description: DKG-Journal 19, 17
Type Locality: "6 km SE Bibasse on the N 2 road to Mitzic"; northern Gabon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 10-12, A 15-16, S 28-29+2 Total Length: M 39 mm, F 33 mm
Systematic Relationship: No relation to any other species of Aplocheilidae
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Relict-like distribution area of the upper Woleu in northern Gabon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. cameronense
Temperatures: 21-24 C
°

38

Foerschichthys flavipinnis ( MEINKEN, 1932)

Subfamily: Aplocheilinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Foerschichthys
SCHEEL & ROMAND, 1981
First Description: Blätter Aqu. u. Terr.-Kde. 43, 54
Type Locality: "Küstennahes Hinterland von Lagos", southwestern Nigeria
Synonyms: Aplocheilichthys flavipinnis MEINKEN, 1932
Systematic Relationship: Recent investigations revealed that F. flavipinnis is an aplocheiloid fish
belonging to the subfamily Aplocheilinae (PARENTI, 1982)
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal plains of southeastern Ghana, southern Togo and Benin as well as of
southwestern Nigeria
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. grahami, A. filamentosum, A. bitaeniatum, A. calliurum, F. thierryi
Habitat: Swamps, small streams and brooks in rainforest and derived savanna
Biology: F. flavipinnis is a non-annual species with an incubation period of 12-14 days
39

Aphyosemion occidentale CLAUSEN, 1966

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Callopanchax MYERS, 1933
Type Locality: "Blama, Sierra Leone"; eastern Sierra Leone
Synonyms: Roloffia occidentalis ( many authors); Fundulus sjoestedti (non LÖNNBERG); many
authors; Roloffia huwaldi BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1980;
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. monroviae
Subspecies: A. o. toddi CLAUSEN, 1966 (t.t.: Barmoi, Sierra Leone)
Distribution: Coastal river systems in Sierra Leone and in western Liberia, probably also in the
southeastern most part of Guinea
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: A. roloffi, E. annulatus
Habitat: Swamps, pools and swampy parts of brooks in the rainforest and derived savanna
Biology: An annual species with an incubation period of 1-3 months
40

Aphyosemion monroviae (ROLOFF & LADIGES, 1972)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Callopanchax MYERS, 1933
First Description: DATZ, 25, 299
Type Locality: "Waldtümpel etwa 25 Meilen von Monrovia in Liberia"; southwestern Liberia
Synonyms: Roloffia monroviae ROLOFF & LADIGES, 1972
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. occidentale
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Between the lower Mano river drainage and the lower St. Paul river system in
southwestern Liberia
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: Unknown
Habitat: Swamps, stagnant parts of swampy brooks in the coastal rainforest
41

Aphyosemion guineense DAGET, 1954

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Archiaphyosemion RADDA, 1977
First Description: Mem. I. F. A. N. 36, 300
Type Locality: "Dabola, chutes du Tinkisso, Banian, Simandou, Banamana, cercle de Kissidou-
gou"; Guinea
Synonyms: Roloffia guineensis ( many authors)
Systematic Relationship: Type species of the subgenus Archiaphyosemion, related to
A. maeseni, A. viride and A. jeanpoli
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper Guinea and northern Sierra Leone in the upper Niger drainage and in the
coastal flowing rivers, respectivly
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: Aply. kabae, Aply. nimbaensis
Habitat: Pools, brooks and streams in the highland savanna
42

Aphyosemion maeseni POLL, 1941

Type Locality: "Confluent de la petit rivière Masei et de la Bon de Boan, affl. du Nuon";
border area between southern Liberia and Ivory Coast
Synonyms: Roloffia maeseni (some authors)
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. viride, A. jeanpoli and A. guineense
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper parts of St. Paul, St. John and Cess river systems in Liberia and southeastern
Guinea, middle Sassandra river drainage in Ivory Coast
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. viride, E. lamottei, E. hildegardae
Habitat: Pools, brooks and streams in the rainforest and guinean savanna
43

Aphyosemion viride (LADIGES & ROLOFF, 1973)

Type Locality: "Urwaldbach nahe Salayio, NW-Liberia"; northwestern Liberia
Synonyms: Roloffia viridis LADIGES & ROLOFF, 1973
Meristics: D 9-13, A 13-15, S 27-29+2-3 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 45 mm;
Systematic Relationship: Forms together with A. guineese, A. maeseni and A. jeanpoli the
subgenus Archiaphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper parts of the St. Paul and St. John river systems in eastern upper Guinea and
northeastern Liberia
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. maeseni, E. roloffi
Habitat: Brooks and streams in guinean savanna and rainforest
44

Aphyosemion jeanpoli ( BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1979)

Suborder: Aplocheiloidei PARENTI. 1981 Family: Aplocheilidae BLEEKER, 1860
First Description: B. K. A. Publ. 11
Type Locality: "16 miles from Voinjama, in direction of Zorzor in north Liberia"
Synonyms: Roloffia jeanpoli BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1979; R. melantereon GRIMM, 1974; and
other authors; R. seegersi (nom. nudum) BERKENKAMP & ETZEL. 1979
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the other members of the subgenus
Archiaphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper tributaries of the Loffa river in northwestern Liberia
Variability: Low
Habitat: Springfed pools and brooks in the rainforest
Temperatures: 25-28 °
C
45

Aphyosemion geryi LAMBENT, 1958

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Scriptaphyosemion RADDA 1987
Type Locality: "Region de Conacry-Dubreka, Bass Guineé"; southern Guinea
Synonyms: A. guineense geryi LAMBERT, 1958; Roloffia geryi ( many authors)
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. roloffi and A. liberiense
Subspecies: None
Distribution: From the mouth of the Gambia river southwards along the coast to southeastern
Sierra Leone
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: A. roloffi/liberiense, E. annulatus
Habitat: Pools, swamps, and swampy streams and brooks in coastal and guinean savanna as well
as in rainforest
46

Aphyosemion roloffi ROLOFF , 1936

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Scriptaphyosemion RADDA, 1987
First Description: Wochenschr. Aqu. Terr. Kde. 33, 324
Type Locality: "40-50 km landeinwärts Freetown"; southwestern Sierra Leone
Synonyms: Roloffia roloffi ( many authors); R. chaytori ROLOFF, 1971; R. roloffi hastingsi
ROLOFF, 1971, (nom. nudum); R. brueningi ROLOFF, 1971; R. caldal CAHALAN
(nom. nudum); R. etzeli BERKENKAMP, 1979
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related (semispecies?) to A. liberiense
Subspecies: None
Distribution: From the lower Little Scarcies river drainage southwards to the lower Loffa river in
western Liberia
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. annulatus, E. njalaensis
Habitat: Pools, swampy brooks and streams with stagnant water in the coastal rainforest and
derived savanna
47

Aphyosemion liberiense (BOULENGER, 1908)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Scriptaphyosemion RADDA, 1987
Type Locality: "Monrovia, Liberia"
Synonyms: Haplochilus liberiensis BOULENGER, 1908; Panchax liberiensis AHL, 1924;
Roloffia liberiensis ( many authors); A. calabaricus AHL, 1936; Epiplatys melantereon
FOWLER, 1950; Aphyosemion bertholdi ROLOFF, 1965; A. fredrodi
VANDERSMISSEN, ETZEL & BERKENKAMP, 1980; A. mülleri ( nomen nudum)
Meristics: D 11-13, A 15-16. S 28-31 Total Length: M 45 mm, F 40 mm;
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related (semispecies?) to A. roloffi and to the other mem-
bers of the subgenus Scriptaphyosemion
Subspecies: A. l. schmitti ROMAND, 1979 (t.t.: Tchiens, Ostliberia); southeastern Liberia
Distribution: Southeastern Sierra Leone and Liberia at lower elevations
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. annulatus, E. olbrechtsi
Habitat: Swamps, stagnant brooks and streams in the coastal rainforest
48

Aphyosemion petersii ( SAUVAGE, 1882)

First Description: Bull. Soc. Zool. France 7, 342
Type Locality: "Conacrou, lagune d'Assinie"; southern Ivory Coast
Synonyms: Roloffia petersii (some authors); A. pulchripinnis ZUSCHLAG, 1960 (nom. nudum)
Systematic Relationship: Distribution area separated from the other members of the subgenus
Archiaphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal plains of southeastern Ivory Coast and adjacent parts of southwestern
Ghana
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sheljuzhkoi, E. chaperi
Habitat: Shallow parts of small brooks and streams in the rainforest
49

Aphyosemion walkeri (BOULENGER, 1911)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Paraphyosemion KOTTELAT, 1976
Type Locality: "Bokitsa Mine (Wasa)"; southwestern Ghana
Synonyms: Fundulus walkeri BOULENGER, 1911; F. spurelli BOULENGER, 1913;
F. rubrofasciatus BRÜNNING, 1930; A. (Fundulopanchax) fallax AHL, 1935
Systematic Relationship: A. walkeri i s the only one species of the subgenus Paraphyosemion
with a distribution area west of the Dahomey gap
Subspecies: A. w. litoriseboris RADDA, 1976 (t.t.: Ivory Coast)
Distribution: Lower Bandama, Comoé and Bia river drainages in southeastern Ivory Coast, and
Bia, Tano, Ankobra and Oda river drainages in southwestern Ghana
Variability: High
Habitat: Swamps, stagnant parts of brooks and streams in the coastal rainforest and derived
savanna
50

Aphyosemion gardneri ( BOULENGER, 1911)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Paraphyosemion KOTTELAT 1976
Type Locality: "Okwoga, headwaters of the Cross river", southeastern Nigeria
Synonyms: Fundulus gardneri BOULENGER, 1911; Haplochilus brucei BOULENGER, 1911;
A. g. obuduense WRIGHT & JEREMY, 1974; A. clauseni SCHEEL, 1975 nom. nud.
A. (Paraphyosemion) biafranum KOTTELAT, 1976 nom. nud.
Meristics: D 12-16, A 14-18, S 29-34 Total Length: M 50-70 mm, F 40-55 mm;
Systematic Relationship: Forms together with A. mirabile, A. cinnamomeum, A. ndianum,
A. spoorenbergi, A. puerzli and A. amieti the subgenus Paraphyose-
mion
Subpecies: A. g. nigerianum CLAUSEN, 1963 (t.t.: Arum, Jos plateau, Nigeria)
A. g. lacustre RADDA, 1974 (t.t.: Lake Ejagham, western Cameroon)
A. g. mamfense RADDA, 1974 (t.t.: Bachou Akagbe, western Cameroon)
Distribution: Niger and Benue drainages in Nigeria and coastal river drainages in southeastern
Nigeria and western Cameroon on basement complex soils
Variability: Very high, colour polymorphism occuring
Syntopic Occurrence: A. scheeli
Habitat: Brooks, swamps, pools and streams in the guinean and highland savanna
(A. g. nigerianum) and in rainforests (A. g. lacustre, A. g. mamfense)
Biology: A semi-annual species with an incubation period of 15 days to one month
51

Aphyosemion mirabile RADDA, 1970

Type Locality: "Kleiner Bach nahe der Ortschaft Mbio, an der Straße nach Kumba",
southwestern Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 12-15, A 15-16, S 31-33 Total Length: M 60 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. gardneri and the other members of the subgenus
Paraphyosemion
Subspecies: A. m. moense RADDA, 1970 (U.: between Kendem and Noumba)
A. m. traudeae RADDA, 1971 (t.t.: Manyemen)
A. m. intermittens RADDA, 1974 (t.t.: Bakébé, upper Cross system)
Distribution: Relict-like distribution in the upper Cross and Mo river drainages in southwestern
Cameroon
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, P. aberrans, P. similis
Habitat: Brooks and small streams in the rainforest
Biology: A semi-annual species with an incubation period of about three weeks
52

Aphyosemion cinnamomeum CLAUSEN, 1963

First Description: Vidensk. Medd. Dansk. naturh. Foren. 125, 201
Type Locality: "Small stream in low mountainous area, 44 miles N of Kumba, Cameroon"
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 13-14, A 16-17, S 30-33 Total Length: M 60 mm
Systematic Relationship: A member of the A. gardneri group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Endemic to the upper reaches of the Moungo drainage, North of Badouma to 9 km
South of Manyemen
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: P. similis
Habitat: Brooks in the rainforest on soils of the basement complex and volcanic soils
53

Aphyosemion spoorenbergi BERKENKAMP, 1976

First Description: Der Aquarienfreund 5 (7) 123
Type Locality: Unknown (Aquarium material of unknown origin) "Grenzgebiet Nigeria/West-
Kamerun, vermutlich aus dem Gebiet zwischen Calabar and Mamfe"
Synonyms: Aphyosemion spec. "Spoorenberg"
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. ndianum and the other members of the subgenus
Paraphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Probably the border area between southeastern Nigeria and southwestern
Cameroon
Variability: High
Habitat: Most probably prefers the same habitat as A. ndianum
Temperatures: No measurements published
Biology: A semi-annual species with an incubation period of 2-3 weeks
54

Aphyosemion ndianum SCHEEL, 1968

First Description: Rivulins of the Old World; T. F. H. Publ. 455
Type Locality: "Near Osombo of East Nigeria, near the southern part of the Mamfe-
Eyomojok-Calabar road", border area between SE Nigeria and Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 14-16, A 15-18, S 31-35 Total Length: 70 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. spoorenbergi and the other members of the
subgenus Paraphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Drainage of the Ndian river in southeastern Nigeria and probably also in the
bordering area in southwestern Cameroon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: None?
Habitat: Swamps and swampy parts of brooks in the rainforest
Temperatures: No measurements published
Biology: A semi-annual species with an incubation period of about one month
55

Aphyosemion puerzli RADDA & SCHEEL, 1974

First Description: Aquarien-Journal (Wien) 4 (3) 33
Type Locality: "Kleiner Bach nahe dessen Einmündung in einen größeren Zufluß des Wouri,
27 km nordöstlich der Kreuzung der Straßen Douala-Edea-Yabassi in Richtung
Yabassi", western Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 13-14, A 16, S 33-34 Total Length: 70 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. amieti and the other members of the subgenus
Paraphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Relict-like distribution area in the drainage systems of the Henda, Nkwoh and
Wouri rivers
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. riggenbachi, P. similis
Habitat: Swamps and swampy parts of brooks and shallow parts of small streams in the rainforest
56

Aphyosemion amieti RADDA, 1976

Type Locality: "Bach im Regenwald an der Straße von Koupongo, 500 m westlich von Somakak
( Songmakak), Sanaga-System im südwestlichen Kamerun"; southwestern
Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 14, A 16-17, S 33-34 Total Length: 70 mm
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related to A. puerzli and the other members of the
subgenus Paraphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Relict-like distribution area of the lower Sanaga drainage in western Cameroon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. riggenbachi, A. ahli, A. franzwerneri
Habitat: Swampy parts of shallow brooks in the rainforest
C
Biology: A semi-annual species with an incubation period of about 3 weeks
57

Aphyosemion filamentosum ( MEINKEN, 1933)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Paludopanchax RADDA, 1977
First Description: Blätter Aqu. u. Terr.-Kde. 44, 249
Type Locality: "Tropisches Westafrika" (Aquarium material of unknown origin)
Synonyms: Fundulopanchax filamentosum MEINKEN, 1933; Fundulus "aus Togo"
MEINKEN, 1930
Meristics: D 13, A 14, S 28 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 45 mm
Systematic Relationship: Together with A. arnoldi, A. rubrolabiale and A. robertsoni forms the
A. arnoldi group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southern Togo, Benin and southwestern Nigeria
Variability: Very high
Syntopic Occurrence: E. grahami, F. flavipinnis
Habitat: Swamps and swampy parts of brooks in the coastal rainforest and derived savanna
Biology: An annual species with an incubation period of about 3 months and sometimes even
more
58

Aphyosemion arnoldi ( BOULENGER, 1908)


Type Locality: "Warri'', western Nigerdelta in southern Nigeria
Synonyms: Fundulus arnoldi BOULENGER, 1908
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. filamentosum, A. rubrolabiale and A. robertsoni
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Western part of the Niger-delta
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. grahami, A. deltaense, A. sjoestedti, F. flavipinnis
Habitat: Temporary swamps, swampy parts of small brooks of the coastal rainforest
59

Aphyosemion rubrolabiale RADDA, 1973

Type Locality: "Lehmige Restwasserpfützen eines Sumpfgebietes 19 km nordwestlich Mbonge",
western Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related to A. robertsoni and is also a member of the
subgenus Paludopanchax
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Costal plains of the southern former West Cameroon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. grahami, A. schwoiseri
Habitat: Raphia swamps, temporary pools and swampy brooks in the coastal rainforest
Biology: An annual species with an incubation period of about 3 months
60

Aphyosemion robertsoni RADDA & SCHEEL, 1974

First Description: Aquarien-Journal (Wien) 4 (3) 37
Type Locality: "Sumpfgebiet in offenem Busch innerhalb der CDC Rubber Plantation Ekona,
etwa 1 km nördlich Bolifamba, bzw. 5,6 km nördlich der Kreuzung der Straßen
Buea-Douala-Victoria in Richtung Kumba", western Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 16-18, A 18, S 27-29+2-3 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 45 mm;
Systematic Relationship: Forms together with A. arnoldi, A. filamentosum and A. rubrolabiale the
subgenus Paludopanchax
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Only known from its type locality, a swampy area without outlet in a depression on
volcanic soil
Variability: Low
Habitat: Swamp in a rubber plantation forest
61

Aphyosemion sjoestedti (LÖNNBERG, 1895)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Fundulopanchax MYERS, 1924
First Description: Oefv. Kungl. Sv. Vet.-Adad. Forh. 52, 191
Type Locality: "Rivulet near the waterfall of the river Ndian", western Cameroon
Synonyms: Fundulus gularis var. coerulea BOULENGER, 1915
Meristics: D 14-18, A 16-19, S 31-37 Total Length: M 60-140 mm, F 50-100 mm
Systematic Relationship: A. sjoestedti and the subgenus Fundulopanchax have no close relatives
among the genus Aphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Niger delta, southeastern Nigeria and southwestern part of the former West
Cameroon
Syntopic Occurrence: E. grahami, A. deltaense, A. schwoiseri, A. rubrolabiale
Habitat: Temporary swamps, raphia swamps and swampy parts of slow flowing brooks in the
coastal rainforest
62

Aphyosemion gulare (BOULENGER, 1901)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Gularopanchax RADDA, 1977
First Description: Proc. Zool. Soc. London 2, 623
Type Locality: "Agberi, in shallow creeks and flooded yam plantations", southwestern Nigeria
Synonyms: Fundulus gularis BOULENGER, 1901; Aphyosemion "fallax" non AHL, 1935
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. deltaense, A. schwoiseri and A. kribianum
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Border area between Benin and southwestern Nigeria and in the North of Lagos
Syntopic Occurrence: E. grahami, A. sjoestedti, A. filamentosum
Habitat: Pools, swamps and swampy brooks in the humid rainforest
Biology: An annual species with an incubation period of 3-6 months and even longer
63

Aphyosemion deltaense RADDA, 1976

Type Locality: "200 yards südlich der Hauptstraße Sapele-Benin nach Warri im westlichen
Nigerdelta, Midwestern State, Nigeria"
Synonyms: Aphyosemion NSC-7, "Deltafisch"
Meristics: D 16, A 18, S 33+2-3 Total Length: M 70 mm, F 60 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. gulare, A. schwoiseri and A. kribianum
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Western Nigerdelta, Nigeria
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurrence: E. grahami, A. sjoestedti, A. arnoldi
Habitat: Swamps and swampy brooks in the rainforest
Biology: An annual species with an incubation period of 3-6 months and even longer
64

Aphyosemion schwoiseri SCHEEL & RADDA, 1974

Type Locality: "Malende-Nyoke, nördlich von Muyuka, nahe der Straße von Buea nach Kumba in
Westkamerun"; southwestern Cameroon
Synonyms: Aphyosemion gulare schwoiseri SCHEEL & RADDA, 1974
Meristics: D 16, A 18-19, S 36 Total Length: M 70-130 mm, F 60-90 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. gulare, A. deltaense and A. kribianum
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Small distribution area around Mbonge and Malende
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. grahami, A. rubrolabiale, A. calliurum
Habitat: Swamps, pools and swampy brooks in the rainforest of the southern plains in the former
West Cameroon
°
Biology: An annual species with an incubation period of one to six months

65

Aphyosemion kribianum RADDA, 1975

First Description: B. K. A. Publ., 4
Type Locality: "Waterholes of a swampy spring area of a brook about 3 km upstream in primeval
rainforest; the brook crosses the Kribi-Campo road about 7 km south of Kribi, near
the ferry across the Lobe river, East Cameroon"
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 16-17, A 17, S 32-33 Total Length: M 80 mm, F 70 mm
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related to A. schwoiseri
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal swampy rainforest area south of Kribi to Elonbatindi in southwestern
Cameroon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: A. ahli
Habitat: Shallow pools of the spring regions of brooks
Maintenance and Breeding: Very difficult
66

Aphyosemion batesii (BOULENGER, 1911)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Raddaella HUBER, 1977
Type Locality: "South Cameroon (Congo basin) from Ja and Boumba rivers, Bitye,
Dja-Sangha-drainage"
Synonyms: Fundulus batesii BOULENGER, 1911; Fundulus beauforti AHL, 1924; F. gustavi AHL,
1924; Fundulus splendidus PELLEGRIN, 1930; A. (Fundulopanchax) schreineri AHL,
1935
Systematic Relationship: A. batesii and the very closely related A. kunzi are the only two species
of the subgenus Raddaella
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper Sanaga, Nyong, Lobo, Dja, Doumé and Boumba rivers of the Sangha
drainage in southeastern Cameroon and northwestern Congo
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sangmelinensis, A. cameronense, A. exiguum, Aply. camerunensis
Habitat: Raphia swamps and swampy parts of shallow brooks in the rainforest of the inland
plateau
67

Aphyosemion kunzi RADDA, 1975

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Raddaella HUBER, 1977
Type Locality: "Brook, right side of the road near the village Mboamo, Etakanyabé, 20 km east of
the ferry across the Ivindo in Makokou on national road Nr. 15 to Okondja,
northern Gabon"
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related to A. batesii (probably a subspecies)
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Area of the Ivindo drainage system in southern Cameroon (Miete, Ayina) and in
northern Gabon
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sangmelinensis, A. cameronense
Habitat: Pools of swampy brooks in the rainforest
68

Aphyosemion bitaeniatum (AHL, 1924)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Chromaphyosemion RADDA, 1971
First Description: Wochenschr. Aqu. u. Terr.-Kde. 27, 17
Type Locality: "Niger drainage"; exact locality unkown
Synonyms: Fundulus bitaeniatus AHL, 1924; Fundulus rubrostictus AHL, 1924; Fundulopanchax
multicolor MEINKEN, 1930; Aphyosemion (Fundulopanchax) nigri AHL, 1935
Systematic Relationship: A member of the subgenus Chromaphyosemion, containing,
A. bivittatum, A. volcanum, A. splendopleure, A. riggenbachi and
A. loennbergi
Subspecies: None
Distribution: S of Togo, Benin, and SW of Nigeria
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, E. grahami, E. bifasciatus, F. flavipinnis, A. calliurum,
A. filamentosum, Aply. macrophthalmus and P. similis
Habitat: Coastal plain brooks in forest regions with quarternary sediments of soil
Biology: An non-annual species with an incubation period of 10 days
69

Aphyosemion splendopleure ( MEINKEN, 1930)

First Description: Wochenschr. Aqu. u. Terr.-Kde. 27, 17
Type Locality: Tiko, western Cameroon
Synonyms: Fundulopanchax splendopleure MEINKEN, 1930
Systematic Relationship: A member of the subgenus Chromaphyosemion containing,
A. bitaeniatum, A. bivittatum, A. volcanum, A. riggenbachi and
A. loennbergi
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southeastern Nigeria, western and southwestern Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea to
northwestern Gabon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, E. grahami, E. biafranus, A. calliurum, A. ahli,
Aply. macrophthalmus, Aply. scheeli, P. similis, P. nototaenia
Habitat: Quiet parts of brooks in the coastal rainforest on tertiary and quarternary sedimentary
soil
Temperatures: 22-26 ºC
Biology: Non-annual species with an incubation period of approximately 10 days
70

Aphyosemion bivittatum (LÖNNBERG, 1895)

First Description: Oefv. Kungl. Sv. Vet.-Akad. Forh. 52, 190
Type Locality: "Rivulet near the waterfall of River Ndian", western Cameroon
Synonyms: Fundulopanchax bivittatus coerulea MEINKEN, 1932; A. b. hollyi MYERS, 1933
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the other representatives of the subgenus
Chromaphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southeastern parts of the former Biafra, Nigeria and southwestern parts of the
former West Cameroon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. garderi, A. scheeli
Habitat: Brooks of the coastal rainforest on soils with cretaceous sediments
Biology: Non-annual species with an incubation period of approximately 10 days
71

Aphyosemion volcanum RADDA & WILDEKAMP, 1977

First Description: D. K. G. Journ. 9 (9) 138
Type Locality: "Bächlein im südwestlichen Stadtteil Kumbas", western Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. splendopleure and to the other members of the
subgenus Chromaphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Endemic in the drainage of the Kaké river and in other brooks around Mount
Cameroon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. calliurum, P. similis
Habitat: Small streams and swampy parts of brooks and rivers in the rainforest on volcanic soils
Biology: Non-annual species with an incubation time of about 10 days
72

Aphyosemion riggenbachi (AHL, 1924)

Type Locality: "Quelle bei Yabassi", western Cameroon
Synonyms: Fundulus riggenbachi AHL, 1924
Systematic Relationship: A member of the subgenus Chromaphyosemion which also contains
A. bitaeniatum, A. splendopleure, A. bivittatum, A. volcanum and
A. loennbergi
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Lower and middle Wouri, Dibamba and Sanaga drainages in western Cameroon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. puerzli, A. amieti, A. calliurum, A. franzwerneri, P. similis
Habitat: Brooks of the coastal rainforest on basement complex soils
Biology: Non-annual species with an incubation period of 10 days
73

Aphyosemion loennbergii ( BOULENGER, 1903)

Type Locality: "Kribi river", presently Kienke river, southwestern Cameroon
Synonyms: Fundulus loennbergii BOULENGER, 1903; Fundulus pappenheimi AHL, 1924;
Aphyosemion (Fundulopanchax) unistrigatus AHL, 1935
Systematic Relationship: Representative of the subgenus Chromaphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Drainage systems of the lower Nyong, Lokundje and Kienke rivers in southwestern
Cameroon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, E. grahami, A. calliurum, A. ahli, A. pascheni, A. kribianum,
Aply. macrophthalmus, P. similis, P. nototaenia
Habitat: Brooks and small streams in the rainforest on basement complex soils
Biology: Non-annual species with an incubation period of about 10 days
Maintenance and Breeding: Somewhat difficult
74

Aphyosemion georgiae LAMBERT & GERY, 1968

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Diapteron HUBER & SEEGERS, 1977
First Description: Biol. gabonica 4 (3) 306
Type Locality: "Marigot avant le camp de Bélinga, au futur terminus du chemin de fer, bassin
de I'Ivindo, Gabon" northern Gabon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 11, A 11, S 27 Total Length: M 20-30 mm
Systematic Relationship: A member of the subgenus Diapteron, consisting of A. georgiae,
A. cyanostictum, A. fulgens and A. abacinum
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Mvoung and northern Ivindo systems in northern Gabon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. cyanostictum, A. fulgens, A. cameronense, A. maculatum,
A. splendidum
Habitat: Small brooks in swampy rainforest
75

Aphyosemion cyanostictum LAMBERT & GERY, 1968

Type Locality: "Marigot du village de Bélinga, bassin de I'Ivindo, Gabon," northern Gabon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 11, A 11, S 27+3 Total Length: 20-30 mm
Systematic Relationship: The subgenus Diapteron contains the very closely but partially
syntopic living species A. georgiae, A. cyanostictum, A. fulgens and
A. abacinum
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Between Ovan and Bélinga in the Ivindo system of northern Gabon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. georgiae, A. fulgens, A. cameronense, A. splendidum
Habitat: Small mostly swampy brooks in the rainforest
76

Aphyosemion fulgens RADDA, 1975

Type Locality: "A brook in the rainforest near Esenkelle, 52 km west of Makokou" northern
Gabon
Synonyms: Aphyosemion georgiae fulgens RADDA, 1975
Meristics: D 12-13, A 12, S 26-27+2 Total Length: 20-35 mm
Systematic Relationship: A representative of the subgenus Diapteron which also contains
A. georgiae, A. cyanostictum and A. abacinum
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Between Mintoum and Makokou, Ivindo drainage, northern Gabon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. georgiae, A. cyanostictum, A. kunzi
Habitat: Swampy parts of small brooks in the rainforest
C
77

Aphyosemion abacinum HUBER, 1976

First Description: Rev. fr. Aquariol. 3, 79
Type Locality: "A environ 30 km au nord de Mékambo (région d'Ivindo, Gabon) sur la piste
cyclable menant au Congo (piste d'Ego, Bouomo, Sèmbé)" northeastern most part
of Gabon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 9-10, A 10-12, Sch 31-33 Total Length: 30-35 mm
Systematic Relationship: An allopatric distributed member of the subgenus Diapteron
Subspecies: A. a. seegersi HUBER, 1980 (t.t.: Gouaneboum-Mékambo, NW Congo)
Distribution: Upper Djadié and Djoua drainages in northeastern Gabon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sangmelinensis, A. kunzi
Habitat: Small brooks in the rainforest
78

Aphyosemion calliurum ( BOULENGER, 1911)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Mesoaphyosemion RADDA, 1977
Type Locality: "Liberia" (erroneously given as origine), southern Nigeria
Synonyms: Haplochilus calliurus BOULENGER, 1911; Panchax vexillifer MEINKEN, 1929
Systematic Relationship: Together with A. australe, A. pascheni, A. ahli, A. celiae and
A. franzwerneri forms the A. calliurum group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southern Benin and Nigeria, southwestern Cameroon
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. bitaeniatum, A. splendopleure, A. bivittatum, P. similis
Habitat: Quiet parts of brooks and pools in rainforest of the coastal plains
79

Aphyosemion celiae SCHEEL, 1971

First Description: Trop. Fish Hobbyist 19 (5) 52
Type Locality: "Source and adjacent small brook near John Epie's house in Mambanda near
Kumba of West Cameroon"
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. calliurum and the other species of the A. calliurum
group
Subspecies: A. c. winifredae RADDA & SCHEEL, 1974 (t.t.: New Butu, western Cameroon)
Distribution: Relict-like distribution area of the central Moungo drainage in western Cameroon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, P. similis
Habitat: Brooks and small streams in the rainforest and secondary savanna
Biology: A semi-annual species with an average incubation period of about three weeks
80

Aphyosemion franzwerneri SCHEEL, 1971

First Description: Trop. Fish Hobbyist 19 (5) 61
Type Locality: "Small source, 15 km north of the road junction Douala-Edea-Yabassi, towards
Yabassi of East Cameroon"
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Ancestral relative of the A. calliurum group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Drainages of the lower Sanaga and Wouri in southwestern Cameroon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. splendopleure, A. riggenbachi, A. amieti, P. similis
Habitat: Smallest pools and puddles of springs and brooks in the rainforest
C
81

Aphyosemion ahli MYERS, 1933

First Description: Kalender f. Aqu.- u. Terr.-Freunde 66 (MEINKEN, 1932)
Type Locality: Not given (Aquarium material of unknown origin)
Synonyms: Panchax (Aphyosemion) calliurus var. coeruleus MEINKEN, 1932; A. calliurum ahli
MYERS, 1933 nom. nov.
Systematic Relationship: A. ahli i s closely related to A. calliurum, A. celiae, A. pascheni and
A. australe; A. franzwerneri and A. herzogi are also belonging to the
A. calliurum group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southwestern Cameroon south of Dibamba River to Equatorial Guinea
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, E. grahami, A. pascheni, A. splendopleure, A. loennbergi,
A. riggenbachi, A. amieti, A. kribianum, P. similis, P. nototaenia,
Aply. scheeli
Habitat: Quiet parts of brooks and flood pools in rainforests of the coastal plains
Biology: A non-to semi-annual species with an incubation period of 10-30 days
82

Aphyosemion pascheni (AHL, 1928)

Type Locality: "Longji, Kamerun" southwestern Cameroon
Synonyms: Panchax (Aphyosemion) pascheni AHL, 1928
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. ahli and the other members of the A. calliurum
group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Relict-like distribution area at the M'polongwe drainage around Londji
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. ahli, A. splendopleure, P. nototaenia
Habitat: Sheltered parts of brooks in the rainforest of the coastal plain
83

Aphyosemion herzogi RADDA, 1975

Type Locality: "Fast running brook about 3 km north of Zomoko or 16 km north of Lalara on the
road to Mitzic and Oyem in northern Gabon"
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: A member of the A. calliurum group
Subspecies: A. h. bochtleri RADDA, 1975; U.: Mintoum, northern Gabon
Distribution: From the Cristal Mountains to Makokou in northern Gabon
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: A. cameronense, A. maculatum, A. punctatum, A. georgiae, A. fulgens
Habitat: Mountain brooks and spring regions of brooks in the rainforest
Biology: A non-annual species with an incubation period of approximately 14 days
84

Aphyosemion australe (RACHOW, 1921)

First Description: Bibl. Aqu. Terr. Fr. 16, 26
Type Locality: "Kap Lopez" presently Cap Gentil, northwestern Gabon
Synonyms: Haplochilus calliurus var. australis RACHOW, 1921; Panchax polychromus
AHL, 1924; Aphyosemion australe hjerreseni MEINKEN, 1953
Systematic Relationship: A. australe is a member of the A. calliurum group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: From Cocobeach in the northwesternmost part of Gabon southwards along the
coast to southwestern Congo
Variability: Medium
Habitat: Coastal swamps and swampy parts of small brooks in rainforest
Biologoy: A semi-annual species with an incubation period of 10-30 days
85

Aphyosemion scheeli RADDA, 1970

Type Locality: "Unknown" (Aquarium material of unknown origin)
Synonyms: Aphyosemion "burundi" nomen nudum SCHEEL, 1966
Systematic Relationship: Closely related with A. marmoratum and A. oeseri and belongs to the
A. cameronense group
Subspecies: A. s. akamkpaense RADDA, 1975; t.t.: Akamkpa, southeastern Nigeria
Distribution: Endemic to the lower Cross river system in Southeastern State, Nigeria
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. bivittatum, A. gardneri, P. similis
Habitat: Brooks and small streams in the coastal rainforest
86

Aphyosemion marmoratum RADDA, 1973

Type Locality: "Bach 16 km nordöstlich von Mbonge an der Straße nach Kumba", southwestern
Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 11, A 14-15, S 32-33+2 Total Length: 50 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. scheeli and A. oeseri as well as to
A. cameronense and A. raddai
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Relict-like distribution in the rainforest around Mbonge in southwestern Cameroon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. splendopleure, A. calliurum
Habitat: Swamps and swampy brooks
87

Aphyosemion oeseri (SCHMIDT, 1928)

First Description: Das Aquarium 2, 165
Type Locality: "West Africa" (Aquarium material of unknown origin)
Synonyms: Aphyosemion santaisabellae SCHEEL, 1968
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. marmoratum and A. scheeli and belonging to the
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Surroundings of Santa Isabel (Malabo), in the North of Fernando Póo (Bioko) island,
Equatorial Guinea
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. sexfasciatus, A. volcanum, P. similis
Habitat: Coastal rivers and brooks in the north of the island
88

Aphyosemion raddai SCHEEL, 1975

First Description: Journ. Am. K. Ass. K. N. 8 (9) 259
Type Locality: "Brook just south of the Eseka-Edea-Yaounde road junction" western central
Cameroon
Synonyms: Aphyosemion cf. meinkeni RADDA, 1973
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. cameronense and the three other members of the
Subspecies: A. r. amoenum RADDA & PÜRZL, 1976; t.t.: Ndoupé near Sonbo
Distribution: Relict-like distribution area in the Ndjoya/Kelle tributaries of the Nyong and in the
upper Djouel tributaries of the Sanaga
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. esekanus, A. loennbergi
Habitat: Brooks in the rainforest at the rim of the inland plateau
89

Aphyosemion cameronense ( BOULENGER, 1903)

Type Locality: "Kribi River and Ja River" southern Cameroon
Synonyms: Panchax bellicauda AHL, 1924; P. microstomus AHL, 1924; P. preussi AHL, 1924;
P. normani AHL, 1928
Systematic Relationship: Togheter with the closely related A. raddai, A. marmoratum, A. oeseri
and A. scheeli forms the A. cameronense group
Subspecies: A. c. obscurum (AHL, 1924): Yaounde and westwards to Matomb; A. c. halleri
RADDA & PÜRZL, 1976: Ambam; A. c. haasi RADDA & PÜRZL, 1976: Hills of Zomoko
i n Gabon
Distribution: Inland plateau of southern Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea and northern Gabon
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sangmelinensis, A. batesii, A. splendidum, A. exiguum, Aply.
camerunensis
Habitat: Quiet parts of brooks in the rainforest
90

Aphyosemion maculatum RADDA & PÜRZL, 1977

Type Locality: "Ein Bach im Regenwald an der Nationalstraße Nr. 4 von Koumameyong nach
Ovan, 33 km östlich Koumameyong, bzw. 20 km westlich Ovan", northern Gabon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. cameronense
Subspecies: Aphyosemion m. mimbon HUBER, 1977; t.t.: Akoga, northern Gabon
Distribution: From the Cristal Mountains eastwards to the lower Mvoung drainage
Variability: High (different colour phases)
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sangmelinensis, A. cameronense, A. herzogi, A. georgiae
91

Aphyosemion striatum (BOULENGER, 1911)

First Description: Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (8) 266
Type Locality: "Abanga river, Ogowe, between 1st and 2nd rapids", northwestern Gabon
Synonyms: Haplochilus striatus BOULENGER, 1911; Panchax escherichi AHL, 1924;
A. striatum ogoense ROMAN, 1972
Systematic Relationship: A member of the A. striatum group with the further relatives
A. microphthalmum, A. primigenium, A. exigoideum and probably also
A. gabunense
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal plains of Equatorial Guinea and northeastern Gabon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, E. singa, A. microphthalmum
Habitat: Brooks and small streams of the coastal rainforest
92

Aphyosemion microphthalmum LAMBERT & GERY, 1968

Type Locality: PK85 de la route Pointe Noire-Sunda", western Congo
-
Synonyms: Aphyosemion striatum microphthalmum LAMBERT & GERY, 1968

Meristics: D 11, A 14, S 31+3 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 45 mm
Systematic Relationship: Together with A. striatum, A. primigenium, A. exigoideum forms the
A. striatum group
Subspecies: A. m. simulans RADDA & HUBER, 1976; t.t.: near Cap Estérias, northern Gabon
Distribution: From Equatorial Guinea and northwestern Gabon southwards along the coast to
Cabinda, Congo and Zaire
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. splendopleure, A. striatum, P. ngaensis, P. loemensis,
P. cabindae
Habitat: Small streams and brooks in the coastal rainforest
93

Aphyosemion gabunense RADDA, 1975

Type Locality: "Small and swampy brook in the rainforest between Lambarene and Fougamou
along the national road Nr. 1, about 30 km southeast of Lambarene in direction to
Mouila", western Gabon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 11-12, A 13, S 28+2-3 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 45 mm
Systematic Relationship: According to its karyotype A. gabunense belongs to the A. elegans
group but distribution and colour pattern are similar to that of the
A. striatum group
Subspecies: A. g. marginatum RADDA & HUBER 1977, t.t.: 9 km southwestwards of Bifoun;
A. g. boehmi RADDA & HUBER, 1977, t.t.: Between Bigouenia and Mora
Distribution: Coastal plains between Lambarene and Fougamou
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, E. singa, E. berkenkampi
Habitat: Brooks in secondary forest and brushwood
94

Aphyosemion exigoideum RADDA & HUBER, 1977

Type Locality: "Kleiner Bach im Regenwald nahe Mandilou", western central Gabon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Very closely to A. primigenium and a member of the A. striatum group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Middle N'Goumé river drainage between Mandilou and Ngoudoufala
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. singa, E. berkenkampi, P. ngaensis
Habitat: Rivers and brooks in the rainforest of the plains
°
Biology: A semi-annual species with an incubation period of 10-20 days

95

Aphyosemion primigenium ( RADDA & HUBER, 1977)

Type Locality: "Bach des Douano Subsystems (Nyanga) im Regenwald der Mayumbe-Berge bei
Banyanga, Seehöhe 250 m, Gabun", southwestern Gabon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related to A. exigoideum and a member of the
A. striatum group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal plain and western rim of the Du Chaillu mountains between Mouila and
Ndendé/Lébamba in southwestern Gabon
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. berkenkampi, P. loemensis
96

Aphyosemion coeleste HUBER & RADDA, 1977

Type Locality: "Bach nahe Massango (Seehöhe etwa 400 m), 13 km NW Moanda, an der Straße
nach Lastoursville", southeastern Gabon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 11-12, A 14-15, S 29-31+2-3 Total Length: M 45 mm, F 40 mm
Systematic Relationship: Forms together with A. ocellatum and A. citrineipinnis the
A. coeleste group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: From Moanda, Lékedi system southwards to the upper Louesse drainage in
southern Congo
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: A. hanneloreae
Habitat: Swampy parts of brooks in the rainforest of the inland plateau and hills
97

Aphyosemion ocellatum HUBER & RADDA, 1977

Type Locality: "Ein schnellfließender Bach im Regenwald, 6 km w Mimongo an der Straße nach
Lebamba zwischen Magagara and Lamadou, Seehöhe etwa 500 m, Migoto-
Ogoulou-Subsystem des Ngounié", southern central Gabon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: A. ocellatum i s closely related to A. citrineipinnis and A. coeleste
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Central area of the Du Chaillu mountains in Gabon and southern Congo
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: A. joergenscheeli, A. hanneloreae
Habitat: Fast running brooks and streams in mountainous rainforest
98

Aphyosemion citrineipinnis HUBER & RADDA, 1977

Type Locality: "Schnellfließender Gebirgsfluß nahe Yéno, Mogambi, Ogoudou/Ogoulou
Subsystem des Ngounié; Seehöhe etwa 450 m", central Gabon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: A close relative of A. ocellatum and A. coeleste
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Western slope of the Du Chaillu mountains in central Gabon
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. joergenscheeli
Habitat: Fast running streams and brooks in the rainforest
99

Aphyosemion joergenscheeli HUBER & RADDA, 1977

Type Locality: "Schnellfließender Bach im Regenwald, 6 km W Mimongo, an der Straße nach
Lebamba, zwischen Magagara and Lamadou, Seehöhe etwa 500 m, Migoto/
Ogoulou-Subsystem des Ngunié", central Gabon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: No close relationship to another species
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Central area of the Du Chaillu mountains
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. ocellatum, A. hanneloreae
Habitat: Brooks and small streams in the highlands of the Ngunié drainage
100

Aphyosemion thysi RADDA & HUBER, 1978

Type Locality: "Bach 500 m von Ngala, an der Straße Titi-Mossendjo, Provinz Niari, Louessé-
System"; southern Congo
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 11-12, A 14-15, S 30+1-2 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 40 mm
Systematic Relationship: A member of the A. ogoense group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Mossendjo-Komono area of the Louessé-Niari drainage in southern Congo
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. coeleste, A. ogoense
Habitat: Brooks and small streams in the mountainous rainforest
10 1

Aphyosemion ogoense (PELLEGRIN, 1930)

Type Locality: "Riv. Léconi (Ht. Ogôoué), La Passa (Ht. Ogôoué)", southeastern Gabon
Synonyms: Haplochilus lujae var. ogoensis PELLEGRIN, 1930; Aphyosemion plagitaenium
HUBER, 1980, nom. nud.
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. louessense
Subspecies: A. o. pyrophore HUBER & RADDA, 1979 (t.t.: Dorf Gnimi-Quartier Mbaya,
Lékoumou, Congo
A. o. caudofasciatum HUBER & RADDA, 1979 (t.t.: Ekoumou-Flüsschen beim Dorf
Ogoueé, nördlich Zanaga, Congo
Distribution: Upper Ogowe (M'Passa, Lekédi) drainage system in southeastern Gabon, and
upper Niari (Louesse) system in southern Congo
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: A. schluppi, H. zebra, H. catenatus
Habitat: Small streams and brooks in the rainforest and guinean savanna of the Batéké plateau
highlands
10 2

Aphyosemion louessense (PELLEGRIN, 1931)

Type Locality: "Louesse (Kouilou)"; southern Congo
Synonyms: Haplochilus lujae var. louessense PELLEGRIN, 1931; A. spec. "Malinga"
HUBER, 1980
Systematic Relationship: Very closely related to A. ottogartneri and A. ogoense
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper Kouilou, Louesse, Lelali, Buenza and Nyanga river drainages in southern
Congo and in some Nyanza river tributaries in southern Gabon
Syntopic Occurrence: E. huberi, H. zebra
Habitat: Brooks and streams in the rainforest and guinean savanna
10 3

Aphyosemion ottogartneri RADDA, 1980

Type Locality: "Lefini, Provinz Pool, Kongo-Brazzaville"; southern Congo
Synonyms: Aphyosemion ogoense ottogartneri RADDA, 1980; A. lujae ( non BOULENGER) many
authors
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. louessense
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper Lefini river drainage in southern Congo
Variability: Low
°

10 4

Aphyosemion schluppi RADDA & HUBER, 1978

Type Locality: "Bach an der Straße von Zanaga zum Ogooué; Congo", southern Congo
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. wachtersi and A. buytaerti
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper Louesse-Niari drainages between Mossendjo and Komono
( Province Lékoumou) in southern Congo
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. ogoense, A. buytaerti, H. zebra
Habitat: Brooks in the mountainous rainforest
10 5

Aphyosemion wachtersi RADDA & HUBER, 1978

Type Locality: "Quellteich mit 4 m 2 , i m Dorf Voula 2, 9 km NO Zanaga, an der Straße zum Ogowe
(Lésala-System)"; southern Congo
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 12-13, A 13-15, S 28-29+1-2 Total Length: M and F 45 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. buytaerti and A. schluppi
Subspecies: A. w. mikeae RADDA, 1980 (t.t.: Gnimi, Quartier Mbaya, Mpoutoulou river)
Distribution: Upper tributaries of the Ogowe river and upper Louesse drainage in southern
Congo
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: A. ogoense, H. zebra
Habitat: Pools and brooks in mountainous rainforest
106

Aphyosemion buytaerti RADDA & HUBER, 1978

Type Locality: "Ekouma-Fluß beim Dorf Ogoueé, zwischen Zanaga and Voula 2"; southern
Congo
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. wachtersi and A. schluppi
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Only known from its type locality in the upper Ogowe tributaries
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. ogoense, A. schluppi
Habitat: Brooks in the mountainous rainforest
107

Aphyosemion labarrei POLL, 1951

Type Locality: "20 km de Madimba (Inkisi) petit affl. de la riv. Ngufu, pres de Kiavo"; western Zaire
Synonyms: A. (Fundulopanchax) labarrei POLL, 1951
Systematic Relationship: Probably related to A. zygaima
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Middle and lower Inkisi river drainage in eastern Bas Zaire
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: A. cognatum
Habitat: Shallow brooks and streams in the rainforest
10 8

Aphyosemion zygaima HUBER, 1981

First Description: Trop. Fish Hob. 29 (8) 27
Type Locality: "Mindouli, some 100 km west of Brazzaville"; southern Congo
Synonyms: A. louessense (non PELLEGRIN) SCHEEL, 1968
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. louessense and A. labarrei
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Hitherto only known from its type locality
Variability: Low?
Habitat: The type locality is a brook in guinean savanna
Temperatures: No datas available
Biology: Most probably a non-annual species with an incubation period of about 10-14 days
Maintenance and Breeding: No experience
10 9

Aphyosemion ferranti ( BOULENGER, 1910)

First Description: Bull. Soc. Nat. Luxembourg 285
Type Locality: "Petit ruisseau limpide à fond de gravier dans la fôret tout pres de Kondoué,
Bas-Congo" Kondue, Kasai Province, southern Zaire
Synonyms: Haplochilus ferranti BOULENGER, 1910; Panchax ferranti AHL, 1924
Meristics: D 10, A 13-14, S 30-32 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 45 mm
Systematic Relationship: No close relationship to any other species of the subgenus
Mesoaphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Sankuru and middle and upper Kasai river drainages of West Kasai Province in
southern Zaire
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurrence: E. multifasciatus, A. lujae
Habitat: Small rivers, brooks and streams in the rainforest and derived savanna
Biology: Unknown
11 0

Aphyosemion wildekampi BERKENKAMP, 1973

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Aphyosemion MYERS, 1924
First Description: D. K. G. Journ. 4, 221
Type Locality: "Waldbach bei Diang, 40 km westlich von Bertoua, Ost-Kamerun", southeastern
Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 10, A 17, S 24-25 Total Length: 45 mm
Systematic Relationship: According to its karyotype and meristics, A. wildekampi belongs to the
A. elegans group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southeastern Cameroon, southwestern Central African Republic and northwestern
Congo
Variability: Medium
Habitat: Small streams, brooks and swamps in the rainforest and guinean savanna
11 1

Aphyosemion punctatum RADDA & PÜRZL, 1977

Type Locality: "Sumpfiger Bach nahe der katholischen Mission in Makokou", northern Gabon
Synonyms: Aphyosemion striatum ogoense LAMBERT & GERY, 1967; A. spec. aff. wildekampi
RADDA, 1975
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. wildekampi and A. aureum
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Northeastern Gabon and northern Congo
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: A. h. bochtleri
Habitat: Brooks in the rainforest, of the upper Ivindo drainage
°

11 2

Aphyosemion aureum RADDA, 1980

Type Locality: "47 km SW Koulamoutou an der Nationalstraße N 6 nach Mimongo, in einem
kleinen Bach im Regenwald nahe dem Dorf Mouila (SH 470 m), Du Chaillu-Massiv,
Provinz Ogooué-Lolo, Südgabun"
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. punctatum
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper Lolo and Yaou river systems in southern central Gabon
Variability: Low
Habitat: Small and fast running brooks in the mountainous rainforest
11 3

Aphyosemion lamberti RADDA & HUBER, 1977

Type Locality: "Bach nahe dem Ogowe an einer Nebenstraße nach Achouka, westlich Booué",
central Gabon
Synonyms: Aphyosemion christyi LAMBERT & GERY, 1968
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. rectogoense and to the other members of the
A. elegans group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Drainage of the middle Ogowe river in central and eastern Gabon
Variability: Medium
11 4

Aphyosemion rectogoense RADDA & HUBER, 1977

Type Locality: "Bach des Djouele, Léconi-System, etwa 6 km W der Stadt Léconi, an der neuen
Straße von Franceville über Bongoville", southeastern Gabon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 8-9, A 14, S 27-29+2 Total Length: M 35 mm, F 30 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. lamberti and to the other members of the
A. elegans group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Batéké plateau in southeastern Gabon and the bordering area in Congo
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. boulengeri
Habitat: Springfed pool and swampy brooks in the savanna
C
11 5

Aphyosemion hofmanni RADDA, 1980

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: ? Aphyosemion MYERS, 1924
Type Locality: "55 km an der Straße von Mimongo (fiber Mokabou) nach Mbigou, nahe Iméno
Mbila in kleinen Seitenarmen eines Bergbaches mit einem Wasserstand von nur
wenigen Zentimetern, Seehöhe etwa 600 m, Du Chaillu-Massiv, Provinz Ngunié,
Südgabun
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. hanneloreae
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Mbomi drainage of the Du Chaillu mountains
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. ocellatum (in other parts of the brooks)
Habitat: Smallest mountainous brooks
11 6

Aphyosemion hanneloreae RADDA & PÜRZL, 1985

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: ? Aphyosemion MYERS, 1924
Type Locality: "Bei Malinga, nahe der Grenze zur Volksrepublik Kongo, Provinz Ngounié,
Südgabun, and zwar in kleinsten Rinnsalen eines sumpfigen Baches im Regen-
wald des Berglandes in etwa 400 m Seehöhe, welcher in den Nyanga entwässert".
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. hofmanni
Subspecies: A. h. wuendschi RADDA & PÜRZL, 1985; t.t.: 50 km S Mbigou an der Straße nach
Malinga
Distribution: Central area of the Du Chaillu mountains in Gabon and Congo (?)
Variability: Moderate
Syntopic Occurrence: A- coeleste, A. ocellatum, A. joergenscheeli (in other parts of the respective
brooks)
Habitat: Small rivulets in swamps of the rainforest
11 7
Aphyosemion elegans ( BOULENGER, 1899)
First Description: Ann. Mus. Congo Belge Zool. 2, 112
Type Locality: "Bikoro et Coquilhatville" (Mbandaka); Zaire
Synonyms: Haplochilus elegans BOULENGER, 1899; Panchax elegans AHL, 1924
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the other members of the subgenus
Aphyosemion s.s.
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Middle Zaire river drainage in western and central Zaire
Variability: Medium
Habitat: Brooks and swampy streams, pools and ponds, border region of lakes (L. Tumba)
11 8

Aphyosemion schioetzi HUBER & SCHEEL, 1981

Type Locality: "Un petit ruisseau de savanne, pres, de Taba (Congo)"; southern central Congo
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 9, A 15-17, S 28-30+1-2 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 45 mm
Systematic Relationship: A. schioetzi is a member of the A. elegans group
Subspecies: A. s. lefiniense WOELTJES, 1984 (t.t.: La Lefini, 200 km N Brazzaville)
Distribution: Middle Zaire, Djoué, middle and lower Lefini, Nkeni, Kouyou, Vouma and upper
Likouala river drainages in southern to central Congo
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. multifasciatus
Habitat: Brooks and streams in the forested savanna
11 9

Aphyosemion chauchei HUBER & SCHEEL, 1981

Type Locality: "20 km a Pest d'Etoumbi vers Makoua, dans un ruisseau peu courant en pleine
forêt du Congo central"
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 10-11, A 16, S 30+1-2 Total Length: M 40 mm, F 35 mm
Systematic Relationship: A. chauchei belongs to the A. elegans group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Likona river drainage in central Congo
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. phoeniceps
120

Aphyosemion decorsei (PELLEGRIN, 1904)

First Description: Bull. Mus. Hist. Nat. 10, 223
Type Locality: "Bessou, Oubanghi"; southeastern Central African Republic
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: A. decorsei belongs to the A. elegans group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Oubangui drainage in southern Central African Republic and possibly in northern
Zaire
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurrence: E. mesogramma
12 1

Aphyosemion christyi (BOULENGER, 1915)

Type Locality: "Bafwasende, Lindi River, Congo"; northeastern Zaire
Synonyms: Haplochilus christyi BOULENGER, 1915; H. schoutedeni BOULENGER, 1920;
A. castaneum MYERS, 1924; A. margaretae FOWLER, 1936
Systematic Relationship: Member of the A. elegans group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper Zaire and Oubangui river drainages in northeastern and northern Zaire and
probably also in the southern Central African Republic
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: H. platysternus, H. stictopleuron
12 2

Aphyosemion cognatum MEINKEN, 1951

Type Locality: "Leopoldville"; Kinshasa, western Zaire
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: A. cognatum belongs to the A. elegans group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Zaire river drainage southeast and north of Kinshasa and east of Brazzaville in
southern Congo
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. chevalieri
123

Aphyosemion polli sp. nov.

First Description: Colour Atlas 9
Type Locality: Near N'jili, international airport of Kinshasa, Zaire
Synonyms: Aphyosemion schoutedeni ( non BOULENGER) POLL, 1952
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the other members of the A. elegans superspecies
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Hitherto only known from the type locality
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurrence: E. chevalieri
Habitat: Swampy brook in derived savanna
124

Aphyosemion congicum (AHL, 1924)

First Description: Zool. Anz. 61, 307
Type Locality: "Congo"; Zaire
Synonyms: Panchax congicus AHL, 1924; A. melanopteron GOLDSTEIN & RICCO, 1970
Systematic Relationship: This species belongs to the A. elegans group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Lufini river system and Vue river in western Zaire (Kinshasa province)
Variability: Low
Habitat: Fast running rivers and brooks in open grassland savanna
125

Aphyosemion lujae ( BOULENGER, 1911)

Type Locality: "Ruisseau limpide a fonds graveleux dans la forêt pres de Kondue"; Kasai
province, southern Zaire
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: A. lujae belongs to the A. elegans group
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper and middle Kasai river drainage in southern Zaire
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurrence: A. ferranti
Habitat: Brooks and streams in the rainforest and gallery forest
Biology: Most probably a non-annual species with an incubation period of 10-14 days
Maintenance and Breeding: Not yet introduced alive
12 6

Aphyosemion exiguum ( BOULENGER, 1911)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Kathetys HUBER, 1977
Type Locality: "Nyong river, eastern Cameroon
Synonyms: Haplochilus exiguus BOULENGER, 1911; Panchax jaundensis AHL, 1924;
P. loboanus AHL, 1924; P. (A.) jacobi AHL, 1928; P. (A.) loloensis AHL, 1928
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. bualanum and A. bamilekorum
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Inland plateau of southern Cameroon, eastern Equatorial Guinea, northern Gabon
and northeastern most parts of Congo
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sangmelinensis, A. cameronense, A. batesii, Aply. camerunensis
12 7

Aphyosemion bualanum (AHL, 1924)

Type Locality: " O Sangha Uham, 1200 m, Buala, Grasland, Kamerun", presently in the western
Central African Republic
Synonyms: Panchax bualanus AHL, 1924; P. elberti AHL, 1924; P. tessmanni AHL, 1924;
Aphyosemion rubrifascium CLAUSEN, 1963
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. exiguum and A. bamilekorum
Subspecies: A. b. kekemense RADDA & SCHEEL, 1975 (t.t.: Petit N'kam, Kekem)
Distribution: Highlands of Nigeria, Cameroon and of the Central African Republic
Habitat: Brooks, streams and swamps in the open highland and guinean savanna
Biology: A non-annual species with an incubation time of 10-14 days
128

Aphyosemion bamilekorum RADDA, 1971

Type Locality: "Bach 9 km NW Bafoussam, an der Straße nach Bamenda, im Hochland des
südwestlichen Ostkamerun", western Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Forms together with A. exiguum and A. bualanum the subgenus
Kathetys
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Relict-like distribution area between Bafoussam and Mbouda, Noun subsystem of
the Sanaga
Variability: Low
Habitat: Small and fast running brooks in the highland of southwestern former East Cameroon
12 9

Adamas formosus HUBER. 1979

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Adamas HUBER, 1979
Type Locality: "Village Ntokou pres des rives de la Likouala-Mossaka"; central Congo
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 8-9, A 15, S 27-29+1-2 Total Length: M 30 mm, F 25 mm
Systematic Relationship: A swamp dwelling dwarf form, related to Aphyosemion
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Drainages of the Alima, Vouma and Likouala in eastern Congo and the middle Zaire
system in western Zaire
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. duboisi, E. chevalieri (small specimen), A. (Raddaella) sp.
Habitat: Swamps, shallow parts of small brooks and streams with stagnant water in the rainforest
130

Fundulosoma thierryi AHL, 1924

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Fundulosoma AHL, 1924
Type Locality: "Mangu-Gebiet, von Breite Kadjamba bis Bogo Moba and Panpamba bis Nacjaba,
nördliches Togo"; northern Togo
Synonyms: Ghana-Aphyosemion MEINKEN, 1960
Systematic Relationship: Probably linked with A. arnoldi and the subgenus Paludopanchax
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Senegambia, Mali, Upper Volta, Togo and Ghana
Syntopic Occurence: F. flavipinnis
Habitat: Temporary pools and swamps in guinean and sudanian savanna habitats as well as in
coastal savanna of southeastern Ghana and southwestern Togo
Biology: A annual species with an incubation period of 1-6 month
13 1

Pronothobranchius kiyawensis (AHL, 1928)

Subfamily: Nothobranchiinae RADDA, 1981 Subgenus: Pronothobranchius RADDA, 1969
Type Locality: "Kiyawa river, close to Katagum, Nigeria"
Synonyms: Nothobranchius kiyawensis AHL, 1928; Fundulus gambiensis SVENSSON, 1933;
Aphyosemion seymouri LOISELLE & BLAIR, 1971
Meristics: D 13-15, A 14-15, S 26 Total Length: M 50 mm, F 40 mm
Systematic Relationship: Probably linked with A. gulare and the subgenus Gularopanchax
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Senegambia, Mali, Upper Volta, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad and Ghana
Syntopic Occurence: None
Habitat: Temporary pools and swamps in the dry and thorn savanna and in the coastal plains of
Ghana
Biology: A annual species with an incubation period of 4-8 months
132

Aplocheilichthys spilauchen ( DUMERIL, 1861)

Suborder: Cyprinodontoidei PARENTI, 1981 Family: Poeciliidae GARMAN, 1895
Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: Aplocheilichthys BLEEKER, 1863
First Description: Arch. Mus. 10, 258
Type Locality: "Gabon"
Synonyms: A. typus BLEEKER, 1863; A. tschiloangensis AHL, 1928; Poecilia bensonii
PETERS, 1864
Systematic Relationship: A. spilauchen is the type species of the genus Aplocheilichthys,
and probably not closely related to all other species
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Along the coast from the mouth of the Senegal river to the Zaire river
Variability: Low
Habitat: Brackish water leading to lagoons and coastal estuaries
Biology: A schooling open water dweller with an incubation period of 10-14 days
133

Aplocheilichthys nimbaensis (DAGET, 1948)

First Description: Cat. IFAN 3, 40
Type Locality: "Guinée francaise: Mt. Nimba, GA, alt 1100-1250 m"; eastern upper Guinea
Synonyms: Haplocheilichthys nimbaensis DAGET, 1948; Micropanchax nimbaensis
HUBER, 1981
Systematic Relationship: Probably related to A. schioetzi
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southeastern upper Guinea and northeastern Liberia
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurence: E. hildegardae, E. lamottei, A. viride
Habitat: Mountainous brooks and small rivers under forest cover
134

Aplocheilichthys schioetzi SCHEEL, 1968

Type Locality: "Bobiri forest reserve, Kumasi" central Ghana
Synonyms: Micropanchax schioetzi HUBER, 1982; A. monikae BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1976;
A. terofali BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1981
Systematic Relationship: Probably related to A. nimbaensis
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Sassandra, Comoé, Bandama, Cavally and St. John river drainages in Eastern
Liberia and Ivory Coast, respectively; Volta and Dayi river systems in Ghana
and Upper Volta
Variability: Medium
Habitat: Small rivers and brooks in the rainforest and guinean savanna
135

Aplocheilichthys hutereaui (BOULENGER, 1913)

First Description: Rev. Zool. Afr. 2, 159
Type Locality: "Uele river, Dungu"; northern Zaire
Synonyms: Haplocheilichthys hutereaui AHL, 1924; Micropanchax baudoni MYERS, 1924;
Aplocheilus chobensis FOWLER, 1935
Systematic Relationship: Unknown
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Chad and Chari river systems in Chad, Ubangui, Bamingu, Gribangi drainages in
Central Afr. Rep., White Nile in Sudan, Uele river in Northern Zaire, Mweru,
Bangweulu, Lufira drainage in southeastern Zaire, upper Zambezi, Kasai, Chobe in
Zambia, Angola, Namibia, lower Shire in Malawi
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurence: Unknown
Habitat: Rivers, brooks, swamps and lakes in rainforest and derived savanna
136

Aplocheilichthys normani AHL, 1928

Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: Poropanchax CLAUSEN, 1967
Type Locality: Kiyawa River, Fort Katagum, northern Nigeria
Synonyms: Aplocheilichthys gambiensis SVENSSON, 1938; Aplocheilichthys manni
SCHULTZ, 1942
Systematic Relationship: A. macrophthalmus, A. rancureli and A. camerunensis are closely
related with A. normani
Subspecies: None
Distribution: From Senegambia to Central Africa and also in the Upper Nile system
Syntopic Occurrence: Aply. rancureli (Ivory Coast), A. bualanum ( Cameroon)
Habitat: Brooks and streams of the coastal savanna and in dry savanna
Biology: Schooling in open waters, the incubation period of eggs is about 10 days
13 7

Aplocheilichthys rancureli DAGET, 1964

Suborder: Cyprinodontoidei PARENTI, 1981 Family: Poecilliidae GARMAN, 1895
First Description: Bull. Mus. Nat. Hist. Nat. 32, 592
Type Locality: "Ruisseau du Banco, pres d'Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire"; southern Ivory Coast
Synonyms: Micropanchax rancureli HUBER, 1981
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the other members of the subgenus Poropanchax
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Lower Comoé, Banco, Boudo, Bia Me, lower Bandama, Sassandra and Cavally river
drainages in Ivory Coast and lower Tano river in Ghana
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: Aply. normani (partially)
Habitat: Brooks and rivers of the coastal plains, covered with rainforest
138

Aplocheilichthys macrophthalmus MEINKEN, 1932

First Description: Blätter f. Aqu. u. Terr.-Kde. 43
Type Locality: Surroundings of Lagos, Nigeria
Synonyms: Fundulus luxophthalmus BRUNING, 1929; Aplocheilichthys dispar GRAS, 1960
Systematic Relationship: A. macrophthalmus, i s the type species of the subgenus Poropanchax
and closely related to A. rancureli and A. camerunensis;
Subspecies: A. m. macrophthalmus: Togo, SW Nigeria; A. m. hannerzi SCHEEL, 1968
(t.t.: SE Nigeria)
Distribution: Southern Togo to the lower Sanaga and Nyong drainages in Cameroon
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: P. similis
Habitat: Brooks and streams in swampy rainforest of the coastal plains
Biology: A schooling open water dweller with an incubation period of about 10 days
139

Aplocheilichthys scheeli ROMAN, 1971

First Description: Peces de Rio Muni 178
Type Locality: "Rio Utonde", western Equatorial Guinea
Synonyms: A. macrophthalmus scheeli ROMAN, 1970; Micropanchax scheeli HUBER, 1981
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. macrophthalmus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Lower Lobe and Kienke river systems in southwestern Cameroon, Rio Utonde and
Beni drainages in Equatorial Guinea
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sexfasciatus, A. loennbergi, A. splendopleure
Habitat: Small rivers and brooks in the coastal rainforest
140

Aplocheilichthys camerunensis RADDA, 1971

Type Locality: "Lobo-Einzugsgebiet, 8 km südlich Sangmelima an der Straße nach Olounou";
southeastern Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 7, A 13, S 27-28 Total Length: M and F 30 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. macrophthalmus and A. normani
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southern inland plateau of Cameroon and northeastern Equatorial Guinea,
probably also in northern Gabon.
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: E. sangmelinensis, A. cameronense, A. exiguum
Habitat: Swampy brooks and streams in the rainforest
14 1

Congopanchax myersi (POLL, 1952)

Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: Congopanchax POLL, 1971
Type Locality: "Ile Atena, Stanley Pool, Leopoldville"; Mbamu island of the Pool Malebe near
Kinshasa, Zaire
Synonyms: Aplocheilichthys myersi POLL, 1952
Meristics: D 6-7, A 10-11, S 25-26 Total Length: M 25, F 20 mm
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to A. brichardi
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Pool Malebe and other islands of the Zaire river
Variability: Low
Habitat: Shallow and weedy parts of the banks
Biology: Unknown
14 2

Congopanchax brichardi POLL, 1971

Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: Congopanchax POLL, 1971
Type Locality: "Liyeke, bras mort de la riv. Tshuapa, route Boende-Watsi, 2 km de Boende";
central Zaire
Synonyms: None
Meristics: D 6, A 9-10, S 26-28 Total Length: M and F 20 mm
Systematic Relationship: C. brichardi is very closely related to C. myersi
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Central Zaire river drainage including the shore region of lake Tumba
Variability: Low?
Syntopic Occurrence: No references
Habitat: Weedy parts of small rivers, brooks and swamps
Biology: Unknown
143

Procatopus similis AHL, 1927

Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: Procatopus BOULENGER, 1904
First Description: Sitzungsber. Ges. naturf. Fr. 79
Type Locality: Logobaba, Cameroon
Synonyms: P. abbreviatus PELLEGRIN, 1929; P. glaucicaudis CLAUSEN, 1959; P. lacustris
TREWAVAS, 1974
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to P. nototaenia and P. aberrans
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Southern Nigeria and southwestern Cameroon in the north of Lokundje river
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: Aply. macrophthalmus, E. sexfasciatus, A. volcanum, A. splendopleure
Habitat: Streaming parts of rivers and brooks of the primary and secondary rainforest
Biology: A non-annual species with an incubation period of about 10-14 days
144

Procatopus aberrans AHL, 1927

Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: ? Andreasenius CLAUSEN, 1959
First Description: Sitzungsber. Ges. Naturf. Fr. 80
Type Locality: Ossidinge, Cameroon
Synonyms: P. roseipinnis CLAUSEN, 1959; P. nigromarginatus CLAUSEN, 1959; P. gracilis
CLAUSEN, 1959; P. plumosus CLAUSEN, 1959; P. andreaseni CLAUSEN, 1959
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to P. nototaenia and P. similis
Subspecies: None?
Distribution: Southern Nigeria and southwestern Cameroon (Benue, Niger and Cross river
systems)
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: A. gardneri
Habitat: Fast running brooks and streams in the rainforest and highland savanna
14 5

Procatopus nototaenia BOULENGER, 1904

Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: Procatopus BOULENGER, 1904
Type Locality: Streams of the Lobi river at Batanga, southern Cameroon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Together with P. similis and P. aberrans forms the genus Procatopus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Lowlands of southwestern Cameroon in the south of the Lokundje river
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: A. macrophthalmus
Habitat: Brooks and streams of the swampy rainforest of the coastal plains
Biology: A non-annual species with an incubation period of approximately 10-14 days
146

Plataplochilus ngaensis (AHL, 1924)

Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: Plataplochilus AHL, 1928
Type Locality: Nga-Zuflüsse bei Attongondema, Kamerun; northwestern Gabon
Synonyms: Haplochilichthys ngaensis AHL, 1924; P. chalcopyrus LAMBERT, 1963; P. mimus
LAMBERT, 1967; P. cabindae ROMAN, 1971
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the other species of this genus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal plains of Equatorial Guinea and northwestern Gabon until Mouila
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: P. miltotaenia, A. striatum, A. microphthalmum, A. gabunense
Habitat: Fast running brooks and streams in the rainforest
14 7

Plataplochilus miltotaenia LAMBERT, 1963

Type Locality: "PK 19 de la route Lambarene-Mouila", northwestern Gabon
Synonyms: P. pulcher LAMBERT, 1967
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to P. ngaensis, P. loemensis, P. cabindae and P. terveri
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal plains of northwestern Gabon
Variability: High
Syntopic Occurrence: P. ngaensis, A. striatum, A. gabunense
Habitat: Fast running brooks and streams in the forest
148

Plataplochilus loemensis (PELLEGRIN, 1924)

Type Locality: "Riv. Lombo, affluent du Loémé", southwestern Congo
Synonyms: Haplochilus loemensis PELLEGRIN, 1924; Aplocheilichthys micrurus AHL, 1928
Systematic Relationship: Closely related or identical with P. ngaensis
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal plains of southwestern Gabon, Congo, Cabinda and Zaire
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: P. cabindae (at Gamba, southeastern Gabon), E. berkenkampi,
A. primigenium
Habitat: Fast running brooks and streams of the rainforest and guinean savanna
14 9

Plataplochilus cabindae ( BOULENGER, 1911)

Type Locality: "Lucola river near Cabinda", Cabinda
Synonyms: Haplochilus cabindae BOULENGER, 1911;
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the four other members of the genus Plataplochilus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Coastal plains of southwestern Gabon, Congo, Cabinda and Zaire
Variability: Low
Syntopic Occurrence: P. loemensis, E. berkenkampi, A. primigenium
Habitat: Fast running brooks and streams of the rainforest and derived savanna
150
Plataplochilus terveri HUBER, 1981
Type Locality: Mpassa river, upper Ogowe, southeastern Gabon
Synonyms: Haplochilus loemensis PELLEGRIN, 1930; P. cabindae LAMBERT, 1967
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the other members of this genus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Inland plateau of the southeastern Gabon
Syntopic Occurrence: A. coeleste
Habitat: Brooks and streams in the gallery forest
15 1

Hypsopanchax platysternus ( NICHOLS & GRISCOM, 1917)

Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: Hypsopanchax MYERS, 1924
First Description: Bull. Amer. Mus. Nat. Hist. 37, 724
Type Locality: "Stanleyville, in a small forest brook, affluent of the Tshopo"; Kisangani in
northeastern Zaire
Synonyms: Haplochilus platysternus NICHOLS & GRISCOM, 1917
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the other members of the genus Hypsopanchax
Subspecies: H. p. zebra (PELLEGRIN, 1929; t.t.: Loula, Omoi, Lebagni, Zanaga, Congo)
Distribution: Southern Congo and central to eastern part of the Zaire basin
Variability: Medium
Syntopic Occurrence: A. ogoense, A. spec. from the A. elegans group
Habitat: Clear forest rivers and brooks
15 2

Hypsopanchax catenatus RADDA, 1981

First Description: DKG-Journal 13, 1
Type Locality: "61 km von Franceville an der Straße nach Boumango, zwischen Madziba and
Mboki, Provinz Ogooué"; southeastern Gabon
Synonyms: None
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to H. zebra and the other members of this genus
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Hitherto only known from its type locality; most probably with a restricted
distribution area
Syntopic Occurrence: A. ogoense
Habitat: Brook in the rainforest
15 3

Hypsopanchax modestus ( PAPPENHEIM & BOULENGER, 1914)

First Description: Wiss. Erg. d. Deutschen Zentralafrika Exp. 1907/08; Zool. 3, 225-260
Type Locality: "Urwaldbach bei Beni, Nilsystem"; northeastern Zaire
Synonyms: Haplochilus modestus PAPPENHEIM & BOULENGER, 1914; H. (Hypsopanchax)
deprimozi PELLEGRIN, 1928; Haplochilichthys analis WORTHINGTON, 1932
Systematic Relationship: Closely related to the other members of the genus Hypsopanchax
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Shore region of lake Edward and inflowing rivers, Semliki river above the falls and
upper Ituri river system in northeastern Zaire and western Uganda
Variability: Low?
Habitat: Lakes and rivers in the rainforest
Maintenance and Breeding: Not yet introduced alive
154

Hylopanchax stictopleuron (FOWLER, 1949)

Subfamily: Aplocheilichthyinae MYERS, 1928 Subgenus: Hylopanchax POLL & LAMBERT,
1965
First Description: Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia 101, 263
Type Locality: "Oka, Congo basin"; central Congo
Synonyms: Epiplatys strictopleuron FOWLER, 1949; Hypsopanchax stictopleuron POLL, 1952
Micropanchax stictopleuron HUBER, 1981; Hypsopanchax silvestris
POLL & LAMBERT, 1958; Hylopanchax silvestris, POLL & LAMBERT, 1965
Systematic Relationship: H. stictopleuron i s related to the species of the genus Hypsopanchax
Subspecies: None
Distribution: Upper Ivindo system in northeastern Gabon and in the upper Ivindo, Alima, Lefini,
Louna, Mossaka, Sangha and Zaire river drainages in northern and central Congo;
Central Zaire river system in northern and central Zaire
Variability: Low
Habitat: Dark and acid forest creeks in the rainforest
15 5
Maintenance and Breeding
With the exception of some species the maintenance and breeding of killifish
from the tropical rainforests of West Africa is quite simple and without pro-
blems. If kept in a tank with the same species these fishes will exhibit their
beauty best while if kept in a community tank they will mostly remain shy and
retiring rarely showing their gorgeous colours.
When furnishing a tank the needs of the inhabitants should be considered.
The measurements of the tanks depend upon the size of the species, number
and their natural swimming ability of the species to be kept therein. Because
of the more or less strong rivalry among some males of Aphyosemion species
i t is necessary to provide the tank with hiding places in the form of plants,
stones or pieces of wood but sufficient space for swimming and for shoaling
must be given.
As the Epiplatys species dwell just below the water surface they prefer a light
cover of floating aquatic plants or some floating leaves of water lilies which
correspond to their natural environment. A bottom layer of dark sand or peat
has also proven successful. Neutral to slightly acid water of medium hardness
with a temperature between 18 and 25 degrees centigrade is suitable for both
maintenance and spawning.
Every kind of living food of suitable size is taken, insects and insect larvae
being preferred. Shoaling fish like to take dry food from the water surface.
I f you do not insist on intensive breeding you may quite easily breed the non-
annual species in tanks which have plenty of floating water plants provided
that the aquarium is free from Planarian. If the breeding individuals are well
fed they will seldom resort to chasing fry and eating spawn. Two or three
weeks after putting the breeding individuals into the tank fry can be found
among the floating plants and can be taken with a spoon from the water sur-
face. The fry are then transferred to a separate container. The fishes will spawn
on water plants, peat or nylon yarn. Especially Procatopus and Plataplochilus
species place their spawn in holes of roots, slits of wood and cork bark.
The spawn can be removed from the substratum and hatched in suitable con-
tainers. The newly hatched fry are then fed with Artemia nauplii or slipper ani-
macule. Because of the small size of the fry it is absolutely necessary to feed
some Aplocheilichthys species on Rotifer and slipper animacule. Within one
to three weeks you can make the change over to larger types of food. Thus the
young fishes will thrive and grow fairly quickly especially in good water condi-
tions and regular feeding. Therefore, it is recommended that the water be
changed as often as possible to guarantee the good quality of the water.
The annual species are bred in thanks whose bottom should be covered with a
l ayer of peat to a depth of not less than one inch. The breeding fishes will
spawn in the peat which can be removed after ten days and dried. After the
embryos have developed lukewarm water (15 to 18 degrees centigrade) is
poured into the peat. The fry hatch within a day and will take Artemia nauplii at
once. Further spawning will take place as previously described.
As we have observed, the reason why the breeding of some species is more
difficult than others is partly because it is not easy to produce the conditions
15 6
which are absolutely necessary for breeding. Water conditions and quality
play an essential role and it is recommended to change half the water regularly
once or twice a week in order that the nitrate content be kept low. This should
assure the good growth and well being of the fish. Should the nitrate level ex-
ceed the certain values the fishes are discomforted at once, take less food and
become sensitive to certain diseases like Oodinium and tuberculosis.
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HUBER, J. H. and A. C. RADDA: Die Rivulinae des südlichen Kongo (Brazzaville). 2. Der Aphyosemion lujae-Komplex.
Aquaria 26, 175-185 (1979).
HUBER, J. H. & J. J. SCHEEL: Revue systématique de le superespèce Aphyosemion elegans. Description de A. chauchei,
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Tervuren. Ann. Ser IN 8° Sci Zool. 93, 7-40 (1961).
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LAMBERT, J. et. J. GERRY: Poissons du bassin de I'Ivindo V. Rivulinae (suite) et Procatopodinae. Biol. Gabon. 5,
223-231 (1969).
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15 7
MOREAU, R. E.: Climatic changes and distribution of forest vertebrates in West Africa. J. Zool. London 158, 39-61
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PARENTI, L. R.: A. Phylogenetic and Biogeographic Analysis of Cyprinodontiform Fishes (Teleostei, Atherinomorpha),
Bull. Amer. Mus. Nat. Hist. 168, 341-557 (1981).
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1 -2, 157-171 (1951).
POLL, M.: Notes sur les Cyprinodontidae du Musée du Congo belge Deuxième partie: les Aplocheilichthyini et les
Lamprichthyini. Rev. Zoo. Bot. Afr. 45, 3-4, 293-305 (1952).
POLL, M.: Notes sur les Cyprinodontidae de Leopoldville avec description d'une espèce nouvelle du genre Epiplatys.
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centrale (Pisces, Cyprinodontidae). Kon. Acad. voor overzeese Wetensch. 2, 615-631 (1965).
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RADDA, A. C.: Fundulosoma thierryi and ihre Verwandten (Cyprinodontidae, Rivulinae). Aquaria 16, 159-164 (1969).
RADDA, A. C.: Die Epiplatysarten der ,Senegalensis-bifasciatus Gruppe" mit der vorläufigen Beschreibung von Epipla-
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RADDA, A. C.: Untersuchung an einigen kürzlich beschriebenen Arten and Unterarten von Rivulinen (Osteichthyes,
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RADDA, A. C. : Aphyosemion marmoratum nov. spec. and Aphyosemion rubrolabiale nov. spec. zwei neue Rivulinen-
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( Osteichthyes, Cyprinodontidae) aus dem südlichen Westkamerun. Jb. des naturhist. Mus. Bern, 5, 1-11 (1974).
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kribianum nov. spec. B. K. A. Publ. 1--12 (1975).
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one new subspecies of the genus Aphyosemion MYERS, BKA Publ. 20 pp. (1975).
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Weltreise Bd. 11: Afrika. Novaria Verlag, München, 1974
15 8

Alphabetical Index
genus species Page genus species Page
Adamas formosus 130 Aphyosemion ndianum 55
occidentale 40
Aphyosemion abacinum 78 ocellatum _ 98
ahli 82 oeseri 88
amieti 57 ogoense 102
arnoldi 59 ottogartneri 104
aureum 113 pascheni 83
australe 85 petersii 49
bamilekorum 129 124
batesii 67 primigenium
polli
96
bitaeniatum 69 puerzli 56
bivittatum 71 punctatum 112
bualanum 128 raddai 89
buytaerti 107 rectogoense 115
calliurum 79 riggenbachi 73
cameronense 90 robertsoni 61
celiae 80 roloffi 47
chauchei 120 rubrolabiale 60
christyi 122 scheeli 86
cinnamomeum 53 schioetzi 119
citrineipinnis 99 schluppi 105
coeleste 97 schwoiseri 65
cognatum 123 sjoestedti 62
congicum 125 splendopleure 70
cyanostictum 76 spoorenbergi 54
decorsei 121 striatum 92
deltaense 64 thysi 101
elegans 118 viride 44
exigoideum 95 volcanum 72
exiguum 127 wachtersi 106
ferranti 110 walkeri 50
filamentosum 58 wildekampi 111
franzwerneri 81 zygaema 109
fulgens 77 Aplocheilichthys camerunensis 141
gabunense 94 hutereaui 136
gardneri 51 macrophthalmus 139
georgiae 75 nimbaensis 134
geryi 46 normani 137
guineense 42
rancureli 138
gulare 63 scheeli 140
hanneloreae 117
schioetzi 135
herzogi 84 spilauchen 133
hofmanni 116
jeanpoli 45 Congopanchax brichardi 143
joergenscheeli 100 myersi 142
kribianum 66 Epiplatys annulatus 19
kunzi 68 barmoiensis 12
labarrei 108 berkenkampi 25
lamberti 114 biafranus 28
liberiense 48 bifasciatus 11
loennbergi 74 boulengeri 30
louessense 103 chaperi 20
lujae 126 chevalieri 33
maculatum 91 dageti : 34
maeseni 43 duboisi 37
marmoratum 87 esekanus 23
microphthalmum 93 fasciolatus 13
mirabile 52 grahami 35
monroviae 41 hildegardae 18
159

genus species Page genus species Page

Epiplatys huberi 26 Fundulosoma thierryi 131
lamottei 16
longiventralis 27 Hylopanchax stictopleuron 155
mesogramma 32
Hypsopanchax catenatus 153
multifasciatus 29
modestus 154
njalaensis 14
platysternum 152
olbrechtsi 15
phoeniceps 31 Plataplochilus cabindae 150
roloffi 17 loemensis 149
sangmelinensis 24 miltotaenia 148
sexfasciatus 22 ngaensis 147
sheljuzhkoi 21 terveri 151
singa 36 145
Procatopus aberrans
spilargyreius 10
nototaenia 146
Episemion callipteron 38 similis 144
Foerschichthys flavipinnis ... _ 39 Pronothobranchius kiyawensis 132
Contents
page
Preface 2
Geography, Climate and Vegetation 3
Habitats, Collecting and Protection __ _ 5
Classification, Systematics and Taxonomy 6
9
10-155
Explanations
Description of the individual species
Maintenance and Breeding 156
Bibliography _ 157
Alphabetical Index : 159
Contents 160
O 1987 by O. HOFMANN-Verlag, Karajangasse 20, A-1200 Wien and by the authors.

Manufactured totally by „atlas", A-2203 Großebersdorf, Wiener Straße 35.
16 0

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A. C.

Colour Atlas of Cyprinodonts of the

We dedicate this book to

Vienna, in January 1987 A. C. RADDA

Fig. 2: Main river systems.

Fig. 4: Rainforest, Savanna and Relief.

Habitats, Collecting and Protection

habitat of E. sexfasciatus, A. splendopleure, A. calliurum and P. similis

Fig. 6: Rainfall in the different seasons in West and Central Afrika.

During the past twenty years an encreasing destruction of the rainforest in

Classification, Systematics and Taxonomy

I n 1981 Dr. Lynne R. PARENTI published a comprehensive work based mainly

Order Cyprinodontiformes BERG, 1940

Among the subgenera of the genus Epiplatys only Aphyoplatys seems to be

The subgenus Chromaphyosemion comprises the A. bivittatum group and oc-

Description of Aphyosemion polli sp. nov.

Explanations to the following part on the individual species

Epiplatys spilargyreius ( DUMERIL, 1861)

Epiplatys bifasciatus (STEINDACHNER, 1881)

Epiplatys barmoiensis SCHEEL, 1968

Epiplatys fasciolatus (GÜNTHER, 1866)

Epiplatys njalaensis NEUMANN, 1976

Epiplatys olbrechtsi POLL, 1941

Epiplatys lamottei DAGET, 1954

Epiplatys roloffi ROMAND, 1978

Epiplatys hildegardae BERKENKAMP, 1983

Epiplatys annulatus (BOULENGER, 1915)

Epiplatys chaperi (SAUVAGE, 1882)

Epiplatys sheljuzhkoi POLL, 1953

Epiplatys sexfasciatus GILL, 1863

Epiplatys esekanus SCHEEL, 1968

Epiplatys sangmelinensis (AHL, 1928)

Epiplatys berkenkampi NEUMANN, 1978

Epiplatys huberi RADDA & PÜRZL, 1981

Epiplatys longiventralis ( BOULENGER, 1911)

Epiplatys biafranus RADDA, 1970

Epiplatys multifasciatus ( BOULENGER, 1913)

Epiplatys boulengeri (PELLEGRIN, 1926)

Epiplatys phoeniceps HUBER, 1980

Epiplatys mesogramma (HUBER, 1980)

Epiplatys chevalieri (PELLEGRIN, 1904)

Epiplatys dageti POLL, 1953

Epiplatys grahami ( BOULENGER, 1911)

Epiplatys singa ( BOULENGER, 1899)

Epiplatys duboisi POLL, 1952

Epiplatys callipteron RADDA & PÜRZL, 1987

Biology: A non-annual species with an incubation period of 10-14 days

Foerschichthys flavipinnis ( MEINKEN, 1932)

Aphyosemion occidentale CLAUSEN, 1966

Aphyosemion monroviae (ROLOFF & LADIGES, 1972)

Aphyosemion guineense DAGET, 1954

Aphyosemion maeseni POLL, 1941

Aphyosemion viride (LADIGES & ROLOFF, 1973)

Aphyosemion jeanpoli ( BERKENKAMP & ETZEL, 1979)

Aphyosemion geryi LAMBENT, 1958

Aphyosemion roloffi ROLOFF , 1936

Aphyosemion liberiense (BOULENGER, 1908)

Aphyosemion petersii ( SAUVAGE, 1882)

Aphyosemion walkeri (BOULENGER, 1911)

Aphyosemion gardneri ( BOULENGER, 1911)

Aphyosemion mirabile RADDA, 1970

Aphyosemion cinnamomeum CLAUSEN, 1963

Aphyosemion spoorenbergi BERKENKAMP, 1976

Aphyosemion ndianum SCHEEL, 1968