Tiburon Limia (Limia islai) – USA Bred

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The Tiburon Limia (Limia islai) is a rare and fascinating livebearer endemic to Hispaniola. Known for its striking metallic sheen and subtle tiger-like barring, this species is a perfect choice for enthusiasts looking to add an uncommon yet hardy fish to their aquarium. Unlike many other Limia species, the Tiburon Limia is known for its active schooling behavior and social interactions, making it a lively addition to planted and community tanks.

This species thrives in hard, alkaline water conditions, similar to other Limia and livebearers. As an omnivorous fish, it requires a balanced diet of plant-based foods and protein sources to maintain its vibrant coloration and energy levels.

What We Love About This Fish:

✔ Rare & Unique Livebearer: A lesser-known species that adds diversity to community tanks.
✔ Subtle Yet Stunning Patterning: Metallic body with faint barring and an elegant sheen.
✔ Hardy & Active: A great choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
✔ Peaceful & Social: Best kept in groups for natural schooling behavior.

Natural Habitat:

The Tiburon Limia originates from freshwater streams and brackish coastal habitats in Hispaniola, where they inhabit areas with dense vegetation, rocky substrates, and moderate water flow. These environments provide plenty of hiding spots while allowing them to forage naturally.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Thrives in heavily planted tanks with floating or rooted vegetation.
• Hardscape: Rock formations, driftwood, and sandy or fine gravel substrate.
• Water Flow: Moderate, mimicking its natural habitat.

Diet and Feeding:

Tiburon Limia are omnivorous, requiring a balanced diet of both plant-based foods and protein sources. They will eagerly accept:

• High-quality spirulina flakes and vegetable-based pellets.
• Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
• Occasional treats of blanched vegetables like zucchini or spinach.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

✔ Peaceful community fish such as guppies, mollies, swordtails, and other livebearers.
✔ Corydoras catfish, small tetras, and peaceful barbs.
✔ Avoid large, aggressive cichlids or fin-nipping species.

Shrimp Safe?

✔ Yes, mostly! While adults typically ignore shrimp, they may eat small shrimp fry. Providing dense plant cover can help protect them.

Breeding:

Tiburon Limia are livebearers, meaning females give birth to fully formed fry rather than laying eggs. To encourage successful breeding:

• Maintain a male-to-female ratio of 1:3 to reduce stress on females.
• Provide plenty of plant cover for fry to hide from adult fish.
• Feed a high-protein diet to encourage healthy reproduction.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 72° - 82° F (22° - 28° C)
• pH: 7.5 - 8.5
• KH: 10 - 20 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (for a small group)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous; requires a mix of plant and protein-based foods.
• Social Behavior: Best kept in groups of 5 or more.
• Origin: Tank bred.
• Average Adult Size: 2 - 3 inches (5 - 7.5 cm).
• Average Purchase Size: 1 - 1.5 inches (2.5 - 3.8 cm).

Live Arrival Guarantee:

All Aquatic Arts brand fish come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support to ensure your success in keeping this incredible species!

Add the Tiburon Limia to your aquarium today and enjoy the beauty and activity of this rare and lively livebearer!