Aplocheilidae

Aplocheilidae is a small family of killifishes within the order Cyprinodontiformes. The group includes several genera, notably Aplocheilus, the Asian killifish, and Pachypanchax, the Madagascar killifish. In some classifications, Aplocheilidae is treated as a subfamily (Aplocheilinae) within a larger family, reflecting ongoing revisions in killifish taxonomy.

Geographic distribution and habitat: Species in this family are native to Africa, Madagascar, and parts of southern Asia. They inhabit a range of freshwater environments, including rivers, streams, ponds, swamps, and sometimes brackish habitats; many are adapted to warm tropical climates.

Description: Aplocheilids are generally small to medium-sized fish, with most species under 6 cm in length. Males are often more colorful, sometimes with striking fins used in courtship; females tend to be drab.

Ecology and reproduction: They feed on small invertebrates and algae. They are egg-layers; females lay eggs on vegetation or substrate, and no parental care is provided after spawning.

In aquaculture and conservation: Several species are kept by aquarium hobbyists, especially Aplocheilus panchax. Habitat destruction and pollution threaten many wild populations, particularly in Madagascar and parts of Asia.