Nothobranchius rachovii – 3.5–4 inches

🐠 Species Overview

Nothobranchius rachovii, commonly known as the Rainbow Killifish, is a striking species native to seasonal pools in East Africa. Males display vivid colors, including red, orange, and blue, while females are generally more subdued in color. This species is notable for its short lifespan, typically living only 6–12 months, which is characteristic of annual killifish. They are best kept in species-only setups or with other peaceful species of similar size.

🏡 Aquarium Setup & Care Instructions

Tank Size & Environment

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group.

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand.

• Decor: Heavily planted with floating plants, bogwood, and leaf litter to mimic their natural habitat.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C).

  • pH: 6.5–7.5.

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water.

• Filtration: Gentle filtration to maintain water quality; sensitive to ammonia and nitrites.

Behavior & Tankmates

• Temperament: Males can be territorial; it's advisable to keep 2–3 females per male to reduce aggression.

• Compatibility: Best kept in species-only tanks or with other peaceful species of similar size.

Diet

• Feeding Habits: Carnivorous; offer a varied diet including high-quality flake foods, live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia, and occasional vegetable matter.