The Nothobranchius rachovii is one of the most dazzling and sought-after annual killifish in the hobby, admired for its vivid electric blue body, fiery red fins, and complex color patterns. Native to the seasonal floodplains of Mozambique, this small but vibrant species grows to about 3–4cm and completes its life cycle in just a few months in the wild—making it a fascinating choice for aquarists passionate about breeding and species conservation.

Despite their short natural lifespan, N. rachovii can thrive and even live longer in a well-maintained aquarium environment. Their brilliant coloration, peaceful nature, and captivating breeding cycle make them ideal for species-only tanks, blackwater biotopes, or dedicated killifish breeding projects.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Nothobranchius rachovii

• Common Name: Rachovii Killifish, Blue Rachovii

• Size: 3–4cm (adult)

• Lifespan: 4–12 months (typical of annual killifish)

• Temperament: Peaceful, breeding-focused

• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Advanced

• Origin: Mozambique, East Africa

• Best kept in species tanks or peaceful, controlled setups

🌊 Water Conditions

This species prefers warm, soft, and slightly acidic water with gentle flow and shaded areas.

• Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.2

• Hardness: 1–8 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Sponge filter or low-flow setup

• Lighting: Low to moderate (floating plants recommended)

Add peat moss or coconut fiber substrate for breeding, and use driftwood or floating plants to simulate their natural habitat and reduce stress.

🐟 Tank Mates

Nothobranchius rachovii are best kept in species-only tanks due to their delicate nature, specific breeding needs, and short lifespan.

Avoid:

• Fin-nippers or aggressive fish

• Very active community species

• Shrimp and small inverts (may be eaten)

They thrive in quiet, undisturbed environments with minimal competition and stress.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Rachovii are micropredators and prefer small, meaty foods.

Preferred diet:

• Live baby brine shrimp

• Daphnia, microworms, grindal worms

• Frozen bloodworms, cyclops

• Soft micro pellets or finely crushed flakes (supplemental)

Feed 1–2 times daily, focusing on high-protein foods to support their rapid growth and breeding cycles.

🧼 Care and Breeding Tips

As true annual killifish, N. rachovii lay their eggs in substrate that dries during the dry season and hatches once rehydrated—this cycle can be replicated in aquariums.

✅ Breeding Process:

• Use peat moss or coconut fiber for spawning

• Collect eggs from the substrate after 2–3 weeks

• Dry and store peat slightly sealed for 6–10 weeks

• Re-wet in a shallow fry tank to hatch

• Feed fry with infusoria, then baby brine shrimp

Maintain weekly water changes (20–30%), and always keep the tank tightly covered, as killifish are expert jumpers.

🌿 Why Choose Nothobranchius rachovii?

With its unmatched color, unique life cycle, and low space requirements, Nothobranchius rachovii is a top choice for aquarists looking to experience nature's rhythm in miniature. It’s both beautiful and educational—ideal for breeding enthusiasts and collectors of rare freshwater fish.

Bring explosive color and natural wonder to your aquarium—add Nothobranchius rachovii today!