NOTHO RUBRIPINNIS – 粉红佳人鳉

Rubripinnis Kilifish is found in transitory water-filled depressions in coastal Tanzania. These pools can be heavily vegetated and the water depth gradually decreases as the dry season progresses. This beautiful species is an annual killifish, which means it only lives up to a year at most – so the need to reproduce is of high importance. As such, the young fishes develop very quickly in order to fulfil this need (sexual maturity is reached in a matter of weeks), and the resultant eggs are able to survive periods of drought in the substrate, hatching when the rainy season returns and thus providing a new generation to continue the cycle.

It will bring activity and colour to the aquarium, but is best maintained in a species-only breeding tank, with 2 or more females to every male. If keeping more than one male in the same aquarium, do ensure that the tank is spacious and heavily decorated in order for rival males to retreat to safety if necessary. If tankmates are desired, these killifish can be kept alongside other species such as pencilfish, Kuhli loaches, Corydoras catfish, Sparkling/Croaking Gouramis etc., which all enjoy the same softwater conditions. They are, however, not suitable for the general community. When kept in a specialised community, the aquarium should be heavily planted (include floating species) with the incorporation of plenty of bogwood. Adding botanicals such as Catappa leaves is suggested to help keep the water soft, acidic and tannin stained, all of which will help to show the fish in their best colours. Filtration should be efficient, but water movement gentle. Small partial water changes should be carried out on a regular and frequent basis. Tight fitting coverslides are a must as these fish are expert jumpers.