Saddleback Nothobranch

Nothobranchius orthonotus is a larger and more robust annual killifish found across Mozambique, Malawi, and parts of Zambia. Males display vivid red and blue patterning alongside the eponymous dark dorsal saddle. It is one of the tougher annual killifish and can tolerate somewhat harder and more alkaline water than most of its relatives, making it a practical choice for beginners to the annual killifish hobby.

Water: 20–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, moderate hardness tolerated. Tank: 40 L species tank; peat substrate for egg deposition; secure lid essential. Feeding: Live and frozen invertebrates; will also accept quality micro-pellets. Behaviour: Males territorial and may pursue females persistently; keep trio. Compatibility: Species tank preferred; more tolerant than most Nothobranchius.