The Gulf Coast pygmy sunfish (Elassoma gilberti) is a diminutive freshwater fish native to the southeastern United States, particularly Florida and southern Georgia. Measuring typically less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length, these fish are notable for the males' vibrant metallic blue that pops on an almost pure black they show when they are the dominant males for their territory, while females and non-breeding males exhibit more subdued brown or olive tones.
Preferring slow-moving or still waters such as swamps, marshes, and densely vegetated streams and ponds, E. gilberti thrives in slightly acidic to neutral environments rich in cover and vegetation though we breed them here successfully in slightly hard water that is around 7.6ph. Their diet consists mainly of small invertebrates, and we have found they usually need live food like grindal worms, blackworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, and similar prey. But the males color and "dance" make them worth the effort of keeping grindal worms.
During the breeding season, males establish and defend territories, attracting females with their bright colors and courtship displays. The good news is that in a home aquarium breeding season is all year long so you will have constant "dancing" that makes these fish so amazing. Eggs are laid on submerged vegetation, where they develop and hatch to keep the next generation going. These are a true nano fish that will have multiple territories in even a 10 gallon or smaller if the tank has enough vegetation.
*Fish are more time and temperature sensitive, so part of the cost is covering more expensive shipping options. Please make sure you are home during delivery or have them "help at Post". Report to us right away if there are any problems as we only guarantee within an hour of the reported delivery time.
