Limia zonata (Nichols 1915)
Etymology:
Limia: Limia derived from the Latin ‘limus’ meaning mud, pertaining to the feeding habits of the fish
zonata:
First description:
Nichols, J.T. 1915. On Heterandria zonata sp. nov. and Heterandria versicolor (Günther) from the Island of Santo Domingo. Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History 34(20): 603–604.
Synonyms:
Heterandria zonata Nichols, 1915
Poecilia zonata,
Common name:
The Striped Limia
Group:
Limia
Type Locality:
San Juan River at Sanchez, Samaná Province, Santo Domingo [Dominican Republic].
Distribution:
The island of Haiti, present in all waters, from the Zonata Peninsula to the West of the Dominican Republic.
Populations:
Maimon River, Pietra Blanka – Dominican Republic
Habitat:
Small fast streams with little aquatic vegetation.
Size:
Male 4 cm, female 6 cm.
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This species has a long body with a blunt mouth,
Colour/Pattern Variability:
Males:
A pale tan body colour with a light iridescent sheen, black bands on the flanks between the anal and caudal fin. The dorsal is yellow or orange at the base and black on the outer edge. The caudal fin is a paler yellow or orange with a line of black dots
Females:
A pale tan body colour and no visible gravid spot
Behaviour:
Peaceful, likes to live in groups of several individuals of a dozen or more.
Husbandry:
A well planted aquarium with open swimming space is required. The water temperature should be between 22 and 26 ° C and it is recommended than sudden temperature swings should be avoided as these fish can have an adverse reaction to them. A neutral pH of 6.8 to 7.5 and not excessively hard water is required.
Feeding is not difficult, all limias are omnivores and will eat flake, granular food, live and frozen with equal enthusiasm.
Breeding Notes:
Warmer water is recommended to trigger breeding activities. A mature female gives birth every 4 to 6 weeks, from 30 to 40 fry with a length of 7 mm, Parents are known to eat the fry so plenty of plant cover will help
