Nothobranchius Killifish (Nothobranchius guentheri) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 10 gallons and 72-79°F. A brightly colored annual killifish that lives for only part of a year. Males are showy and bold, females plain. Species tanks work best; the fish live fast, breed on peat, and the eggs can rest dry for months.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Nothobranchius guentheri |
|---|---|
| Family | Nothobranchiidae |
| Origin | Coastal East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar) |
| Adult size | 2.5-3 in |
| Minimum tank | 10 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-79°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Males squabble; mostly peaceful with other species |
| Social behavior | One male with two or three females |
| Swim level | Mid to bottom |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: frozen and live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia, micro pellets |
| Typical lifespan | 6-12 months |
Quick tips
- Keep one male with two or three females; males bicker.
- Use a tight lid; they jump.
- Expect a short life; this is natural for annual killifish.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi