This species of pygmy sunfish was only formally described scientifically in 2009. It originates from Florida and Alabama, where it occurs alongside (but not together with) the very similar species E. okefenokee. Like all pygmy sunfish, they are small fish, with males reaching a maximum total length of 3 cm; females remain smaller. The sexes can best be distinguished in adult animals by the edges of their fins. The males have dark gray edges on their dorsal, caudal, and anal fins, which glow a magnificent neon blue when the light comes in the right angle. The females lack this color feature. Elassoma gilberti is capable of changing color very quickly. A male that was just moments ago resplendent in deep velvety black can change to a pale beige color within seconds when disturbed—and the approach of a camera is enough to cause this reaction. It is therefore a rare stroke of luck to capture a dominant black-colored male in a snapshot.
Unfortunately, this gem of a fish is rarely available. In normal dealer tanks, Elassoma gilberti are often very pale in color. This means that there is little difference between them and the well-known Elassoma evergladei (see: https://www.aquariumglaser.de/en/25-perchlike-fishes/elassoma-evergladei-4/). In terms of care requirements—quiet, densely planted aquariums, frozen and live food, room temperature (16-24°C, i.e., no additional heating)—the Elassoma species do not differ. All are continuous spawners during the breeding season. The eggs and, accordingly, the young are tiny, which makes rearing somewhat difficult. Overall, it can be said that the care and breeding of Elassoma correspond to those of the better-known dwarf badids (Dario spp.). The Elassoma gilberti we offer are captive-bred specimens.
For our customers: the fish have code 414732 on our stock list. Please note that we only supply wholesale customers.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
