Pygmy Sunfish 'Elassoma Gilberti'
Pygmy Sunfish 'Elassoma Gilberti'
These are my homebred Pygmy Sunfish!
In an effort to keep fish shipping as safe as possible, I am not currently listing fish for sale directly on the website. If you’re in an area with nighttime lows consistently above 50°F, email your zip code and which fish you want to info@dakuaquatics.com and I will check weather, shipping, and get back to you within 24 hours!
FYI - I only ship fish overnight via UPS Next Day Air.
The Pygmy Sunfish (Elassoma gilberti), also known as the Gulf Coast Pygmy Sunfish, is a fascinating nano fish native to the southeastern United States. Known for its small size, peaceful nature, and incredible breeding coloration, this species is a hidden gem in the freshwater aquarium hobby. Males develop stunning dark blue to black coloration with brilliant iridescent blue markings during courtship, while females display more subtle brown and tan tones. These tiny fish thrive in heavily planted aquariums with plenty of mosses, leaf litter, and hiding spots. Their curious personalities and fascinating breeding behaviors make them an excellent choice for aquarists looking to keep something truly unique.
Key Features
Key Features
Stunning dark blue and black coloration with iridescent blue highlights in breeding males
Tiny size, typically reaching around 1–1.5 inches
Native to the southeastern United States
Peaceful and relatively shy, perfect for heavily planted nano aquariums
Fascinating courtship displays and breeding behavior
Excellent choice for species-only or carefully selected community tanks
Care Tips
Care Tips
Tank Size: Minimum 5–10 gallons, with larger tanks recommended for groups
Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.5, Temperature 65–78°F (18–26°C)
Diet: Carnivorous micropredator; prefers small live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, microworms, and other tiny aquatic invertebrates. Some individuals may accept frozen foods, but dry foods are often refused
Behavior: Peaceful and shy; best kept in heavily planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots. Males may establish small territories during breeding
Breeding: Egg layers that spawn among dense vegetation, mosses, and fine-leaved plants. Males display brilliant coloration and perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females
Special Note: Pygmy Sunfish are slow, deliberate feeders and may struggle to compete with faster fish for food. Species-only aquariums with abundant plant cover and access to small live foods are often the best choice
Live Arrival Guarantee
Live Arrival Guarantee
In the event of a DOA, we will replace the affected plants or livestock and reship FOR FREE!
If a DOA has occurred, please send clear photos of the affected plants or livestock in their closed shipping containers to info@dakuaquatics.com within 2 hours of the first delivery attempt and we will make it right!
If your low temps are below freezing, select UPS 2 Day Air at check out so we can include a free heat pack and get your plants to you fast and warm!
With their incredible breeding colors, fascinating personalities, and miniature size, Pygmy Sunfish (Elassoma gilberti) are a truly rewarding species for freshwater aquarium enthusiasts. Their natural behaviors and stunning courtship displays make them an outstanding addition to heavily planted nano aquariums, offering a unique glimpse into the beauty of North America's native freshwater fish.