Red-Finned Notho (Nothobranchius rubripinnis) — 2,5-3,5cm

Overview

The Red-Finned Notho (Nothobranchius rubripinnis) is a striking Tanzanian annual killifish endemic to Tanzania, where it is naturally found in seasonal rivers and rice fields. Reaching 3.5cm in length, this semi-aggressive species is prized for its vivid red fins and fascinating breeding behavior. As an annual killifish adapted to temporary habitats that dry seasonally, Nothobranchius rubripinnis has a compressed life cycle and unique reproductive biology. Available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this rare species rewards dedicated aquarists with spectacular displays and unique breeding challenges.

Appearance and Coloration

The Red-Finned Notho displays stunning colouration with a compact, robust body adorned in vivid blues and greens with striking red finnage—particularly the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins—that creates a dramatic contrast. Males are intensely coloured with pronounced red fins 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 less pronounced red colouration. In a planted tank with dark substrate, the red fins become even more vibrant and eye-catching.

Natural Habitat

Nothobranchius rubripinnis is endemic to Tanzania, where it inhabits seasonal rivers and rice fields. These temporary water bodies fill with water during the wet season and dry completely or nearly dry 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 Red-Finned 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, as killifish are strong jumpers. Maintain excellent water quality, as annual killifish are sensitive to pollution.

Feeding and Diet

As a carnivore, Nothobranchius rubripinnis requires a varied, protein-rich diet to maintain health and colour. Offer small live and frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, and bloodworms daily. Will also take quality micro-pellets or prepared killifish foods, but live and frozen foods help maintain condition and the vivid red fin colouration. 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

The Red-Finned 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 red 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 rubripinnis is best kept species-only to accommodate its unique breeding biology and territorial nature. If tankmates are used, only very small, peaceful fish with similar water needs and no fin-nipping behavior may be suitable. Avoid large fish, fast boisterous fish, fin-nippers, highly aggressive species, and most shrimp or very small fry that may be eaten. A calm, quiet environment is essential for this annual killifish to thrive.

Breeding

This annual killifish lays eggs in the substrate. Condition a pair or small group with high-quality live foods, then provide spawning media such as peat moss or fine sand. Eggs usually require a drying/incubation period before hatching. Use a spawning mop or peat/sand substrate and separate adults from eggs to prevent predation. 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 has a short natural lifespan.

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 rubripinnis. 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.