Rachow's Notho

Nothobranchius rachovii is arguably the most visually spectacular of all annual killifish, with males displaying an almost surreal mosaic of electric blue and vivid red-orange bands from head to tail. Native to coastal Mozambique, this quintessential annual species survives the dry season as eggs buried in mud. A breathtaking fish that commands attention in any species aquarium. Annual lifespan is part of its biology — plan for egg collection and spawning.

Minimum 40 L species tank with peat or coco-fibre spawning substrate. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 2–10, KH 0–5, temperature 22–26°C. Feed live and frozen small invertebrates: daphnia, bloodworm, micro-worms. Collect eggs from substrate; store dry in moist peat at 25–28°C for 8–12 weeks before re-wetting to hatch. Lifespan 6–12 months; plan breeding to maintain the line.