Kayuni|s Notho (Nothobranchius spec. kayuni) — 2,5-3,5cm

Overview

The Kayuni's Notho (Nothobranchius spec. kayuni) is a tiny, brilliantly colored annual killifish native to seasonal pools and floodplains in East Africa, with this form associated with the Kayuni area in Tanzania. Reaching just 3.5cm in length, this semi-aggressive species is prized for its vivid displays and fascinating breeding behavior. As an annual killifish adapted to temporary habitats that dry seasonally, Nothobranchius spec. kayuni has a compressed life cycle and unique reproductive biology. Available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this rare species rewards dedicated keepers with captivating patterns and behaviour.

Appearance and Coloration

Kayuni's Notho displays stunning colouration with a compact, robust body adorned in vivid blues, reds, and yellows with intricate patterning that creates a jewel-like effect. Males are intensely coloured with pronounced finnage and a bold presence, especially during courtship. The scales shimmer with metallic iridescence under subdued lighting. Females are smaller, plumper, and more subdued in colour with shorter finnage. In a planted tank with dark substrate, the colours become even more vibrant and eye-catching.

Natural Habitat

Nothobranchius spec. kayuni inhabits seasonal pools and floodplains in East Africa, with this form associated with the Kayuni area in Tanzania. These temporary water bodies fill with water during the wet season and dry completely during the dry season. The water is typically soft, slightly acidic to neutral, and well-vegetated, with a substrate of mud and organic debris. During the wet season, adults spawn rapidly; as pools dry, adults perish while eggs remain dormant in dried substrate, hatching when rains return months later.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum 30-litre aquarium is sufficient for a pair or small group of Kayuni's Notho. Use a fine sand or soft peat substrate to replicate the natural spawning medium. Include live plants such as Cryptocoryne, Java moss, and floating species like Salvinia or Limnobium. Provide spawning mops or peat moss for egg deposition. Lighting should be subdued, and filtration gentle to avoid strong currents. A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential. Maintain excellent water quality and cooler temperatures (20-24°C) to replicate natural conditions.

Feeding and Diet

As a carnivore, Nothobranchius spec. kayuni requires a varied, protein-rich diet to maintain health and colour. Offer small live and frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, grindal worms, and quality micro-pellets daily. Frequent protein-rich feeding supports condition and breeding. Feed small portions twice daily, removing uneaten food promptly to maintain pristine water quality. Variety and freshness are critical for optimal health and vibrant colouration.

Behaviour and Temperament

Kayuni's Notho is a semi-aggressive species that spends most of its time exploring the lower and middle water column. Males can be territorial towards each other, especially during courtship and spawning, with displays of flared fins and bold colour. Serious aggression is usually limited to conspecifics. These fish have a naturally short lifespan of typically 6-12 months, reflecting their annual biology. They appreciate a dimly lit aquarium with plenty of cover and territorial boundaries.

Suitable Tank Mates

Nothobranchius spec. kayuni is best kept species-only or with very careful, similarly sized peaceful tankmates in a larger setup. Small shrimp are generally not recommended because they are likely to be eaten. Avoid large or boisterous fish, fin-nippers, aggressive cichlids, and any tankmate small enough to be eaten. A calm, quiet environment is essential for this annual killifish to thrive.

Breeding

This annual killifish typically lays eggs in peat or fine spawning media. Condition a pair or small group with high-quality live foods, then provide spawning media such as peat moss or fine sand. Eggs are usually removed and incubated in moist substrate before hatching after a drying period. Collect eggs carefully and store in slightly damp peat in a sealed container. Fry hatch when the peat is re-flooded and require infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp. Breeding success depends on careful egg management and this species is short-lived, so plan for breeding continuity.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a trusted UK supplier of rare and specialist tropical fish, including hard-to-find annual killifish species like Nothobranchius spec. kayuni. We guarantee healthy, well-conditioned stock, expert care advice, and secure nationwide delivery. Every fish is quarantined and inspected before dispatch, ensuring you receive only the finest specimens. Whether you're setting up a dedicated killifish tank or adding a rare species to your collection, Tropical Fish Co offers unmatched quality and customer service. Order online today and experience the beauty of Tanzanian annual killifish.