Palmquist's Nothobranch (Nothobranchius palmqvisti) — 2,5-3,5cm

Overview

The Palmquist's Nothobranch (Nothobranchius palmqvisti) is a striking, short-lived annual killifish native to Eastern Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania, where it inhabits seasonal swamps and intermittent freshwater marshes. Reaching 5cm in length, this peaceful species is prized for its vivid colors and fascinating breeding cycle. As an annual killifish adapted to temporary habitats that dry seasonally, Nothobranchius palmqvisti has a compressed life cycle and unique reproductive biology. Available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this rare species rewards experienced aquarists with spectacular displays and captivating behaviour.

Appearance and Coloration

Palmquist's Nothobranch displays stunning colouration with a robust, compact body adorned in vivid blues, reds, and yellows with intricate patterning that varies by population. Males are intensely coloured with pronounced finnage and a bold presence, especially during courtship. The body features spectacular iridescent scales that shimmer 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 palmqvisti is found in Kenya and Tanzania, where it inhabits seasonal swamps and intermittent freshwater marshes. 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 40-litre aquarium is recommended for a pair or small group of Palmquist's Nothobranch. 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 palmqvisti 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 other tiny meaty foods daily. High-quality micro pellets can be accepted as a supplement. Live and frozen foods are essential for conditioning 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

Palmquist's Nothobranch is a peaceful species that spends most of its time exploring the lower and middle water column. Males may display to each other during courtship with flared fins and vibrant colour displays, but serious aggression is rare. 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. They are not competitive feeders, so avoid housing them with boisterous or fast-moving species.

Suitable Tank Mates

Other small, peaceful fish kept in species-appropriate conditions may be suitable, but a species-only setup is best to accommodate the unique breeding biology and short lifespan. Small non-competing invertebrates may be kept only if not preyed upon. Avoid large fish, aggressive fish, fast food-competitive fish, fin-nippers, and most shrimp or very small invertebrates. A calm, quiet environment is essential for this delicate annual killifish to thrive.

Breeding

This annual killifish typically spawns in soft substrate or spawning mops. 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 collected and incubated in moist peat or similar media before hatching after a drying period. Fry grow rapidly and require tiny live foods such as infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp. Breeding success depends on careful egg management, seasonal simulation, and pristine water conditions. Remove adults to prevent egg predation.

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 palmqvisti. 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 East African annual killifish.