Patrizzi's Nothobranch

Nothobranchius patrizii is an annual killifish from temporary pools in the Ethiopian Rift Valley, one of several Nothobranchius species adapted to life in the seasonally arid Horn of Africa region. Males display vibrant red body colouration with metallic blue scale edging and a characteristically patterned caudal fin that varies subtly between populations.

This species requires slightly harder and warmer water than many coastal Tanzanian Nothobranchius, reflecting the geochemistry of its Rift Valley habitat. Peat substrate is necessary for spawning, and eggs require a dry diapause of 10–14 weeks due to the extended dry season in their native range. The species is moderately hardy and tolerates minor fluctuations in water parameters.

N. patrizii is a specialist fish available primarily through killifish societies and dedicated breeders. It offers the opportunity to explore the Ethiopian component of Nothobranchius diversity, which remains underrepresented in the mainstream hobby.

Water: 20–25 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 4–14). Tank: 30 L species tank with peat substrate; slightly higher hardness tolerated. Feeding: Live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia, bloodworm; feed daily. Breeding: Eggs require longer dry period of 10–14 weeks due to extended natural dry season. Compatibility: Species tank only; males highly territorial.