Poll's Nothobranch

Nothobranchius polli is an annual killifish from seasonal pools in Angola, one of several Nothobranchius species from southern Africa's Atlantic-draining river systems. Males display vibrant orange-red body colouration with metallic scale edging and a distinctively banded caudal fin. The species is named after the Belgian ichthyologist Max Poll, who made significant contributions to the study of African freshwater fish.

This species requires soft, slightly acidic water and a peat substrate for spawning. Eggs undergo a mandatory diapause of 8–12 weeks. Being from Angola, this species is less commonly encountered in the hobby than many East African Nothobranchius, making it a sought-after species for completist killifish collections.

N. polli can be housed in a standard 40 L species tank with minimal décor. Its care requirements are well within reach of intermediate killifish keepers who have some experience with annual species.

Water: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.0, soft water (GH 2–8) preferred. Tank: 40 L species tank with peat substrate; peat filtration can help acidify water. Feeding: Live Artemia, Daphnia, micro worms, and frozen bloodworm; feed daily. Breeding: Harvest peat substrate every 3–4 weeks; store eggs dry 8–12 weeks. Compatibility: Species tank only; do not combine males.