Nothobranchius fuscotaeniatus 3-4cm

The Nothobranchius guentheri is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly annual killifish, loved for its bright red and turquoise-blue body, peaceful nature, and fascinating life cycle. Native to temporary pools in Tanzania, this species is adapted to seasonal habitats, completing its life cycle rapidly before the dry season.

Males are vividly colored, with a glowing metallic blue body, red speckles, and ornate fins, while females are subtler but essential in breeding programs. Growing to just 3–4cm, this species is a favorite for aquarists who want to explore killifish breeding, conservation, or simply enjoy a splash of vibrant color in a compact tank.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Nothobranchius guentheri

• Common Name: Guenther’s Killifish

• Size: 3–4cm

• Lifespan: 4–12 months (longer in cooler, stable tanks)

• Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive

• Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate

• Origin: Tanzania (seasonal pools and floodplains)

• Ideal for species-only aquariums and breeding setups

🌊 Water Conditions

N. guentheri thrives in warm, soft water with low flow and shaded lighting—similar to their native, still floodwaters.

• Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.2

• Hardness: 1–8 dGH

• Tank Size: 10 gallons or more

• Filtration: Sponge filter or low-flow filter

• Lighting: Low to moderate (floating plants recommended)

Using peat moss or coco fiber substrate replicates their natural environment and supports egg-laying.

🐟 Tank Mates

Due to their peaceful nature and short lifespan, N. guentheri is best kept in species-only tanks or with other gentle, slow-moving fish.

Best practices:

• Keep in pairs or trios (1 male + 2 females)

• Avoid fin-nippers or fast fish

• No shrimp or invertebrates that may be disturbed or eaten

They prefer low-stress, stable tanks where breeding behavior can occur naturally.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Nothobranchius guentheri are micropredators and benefit from a high-protein diet to support fast growth and spawning.

Recommended foods:

• Live baby brine shrimp

• Daphnia, grindal worms

• Microworms or vinegar eels

• Frozen bloodworms or cyclops

• Soft, high-quality micro pellets (supplemental)

Feed 1–2 times daily in small, consistent amounts.

🧼 Care and Breeding Tips

N. guentheri is an excellent introduction to annual killifish breeding, as it is one of the easiest to spawn and raise.

✅ Breeding steps:

1. Provide a spawning container or layer of peat moss

2. Allow the fish to spawn for 1–3 weeks

3. Collect the peat and dry it slightly in a sealed bag

4. Incubate for 6–8 weeks at room temperature

5. Re-wet the peat in a shallow hatching tank

6. Feed fry with infusoria, then baby brine shrimp

Change 20–30% of water weekly and keep tanks securely covered, as killifish are prone to jumping.

🌿 Why Choose Nothobranchius guentheri?

Nothobranchius guentheri is the perfect balance of beauty, ease of care, and educational value. With its vivid coloration, peaceful temperament, and fascinating life cycle, it’s a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists looking to explore the world of annual killifish.

Discover the vibrant charm of Nothobranchius guentheri—start your killifish journey today!

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Nothobranchius fuscotaeniatus (3–4cm) is a rare annual killifish with bold striping and deep colors—perfect for experienced breeders and collectors.

Product Description: Nothobranchius fuscotaeniatus (3–4cm)

The Nothobranchius fuscotaeniatus is a striking and relatively rare species of annual killifish found in eastern Tanzania, known for its dark horizontal striping, rich body coloration, and peaceful behavior. Adult males reach about 3–4cm and display bold patterns of deep red, dark chocolate, or blue hues, often with banded fins and a speckled or lined body that gives the species its name (from fuscus = dark and taeniatus = striped).

Adapted to ephemeral pools that fill during the rainy season, this species has a short but captivating life cycle, laying drought-resistant eggs that survive the dry season buried in the substrate. Because of this, N. fuscotaeniatus is ideal for aquarists who enjoy controlled breeding and working with annual species that showcase nature’s survival strategy in real time.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Nothobranchius fuscotaeniatus

• Common Name: Fuscotaeniatus Killifish

• Size: 3–4cm

• Lifespan: 4–10 months (slightly longer in cooler, stable setups)

• Temperament: Peaceful, breeding-focused

• Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced

• Origin: Tanzania (seasonal floodplains and temporary pools)

• Best suited for species-only tanks and breeding projects

🌊 Water Conditions

This species prefers soft, warm water with gentle flow and dim lighting, mimicking the shallow pools of its native habitat.

• Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.2

• Hardness: 1–6 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Sponge filter or slow flow system

• Lighting: Low to moderate (floating plants or tannins reduce stress)

Use peat moss or coco fiber as substrate for natural spawning behavior and optimal egg collection.

🐟 Tank Mates

N. fuscotaeniatus is best kept in species-only setups due to its short lifespan and specific environmental needs.

Avoid tank mates like:

• Fast-swimming or aggressive species

• Shrimp and snails (may be harassed or eaten)

• Bottom dwellers that disturb spawning substrate

They do best in calm, undisturbed environments where breeding behavior can occur freely.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

This species thrives on a meaty, protein-rich diet, similar to its natural feeding on small insects and crustaceans.

Preferred foods include:

• Live/frozen baby brine shrimp

• Daphnia, grindal worms, microworms

• Frozen bloodworms and cyclops

• Optional: high-quality soft micro pellets

Feed 1–2 times daily, being careful not to overfeed in small tanks.

🧼 Care and Breeding Tips

Nothobranchius fuscotaeniatus follows the classic annual killifish breeding pattern, laying eggs that must dry and be incubated before hatching.

✅ Breeding process:

1. Provide a substrate like peat moss or coconut fiber

2. Allow breeding pair/trio to spawn for 1–3 weeks

3. Remove the substrate and store semi-dry in a sealed bag

4. Incubate for 6–10 weeks at room temperature

5. Rehydrate to trigger hatching

6. Feed fry with infusoria or baby brine shrimp immediately after hatching

Maintain weekly water changes (20–30%), and use a tight lid—these fish are known jumpers.

🌿 Why Choose Nothobranchius fuscotaeniatus?

With its unique dark striping, bold coloration, and rewarding breeding behavior, Nothobranchius fuscotaeniatus is a treasure for aquarists looking to work with rare, seasonal species. Its fascinating life cycle and natural beauty make it a top pick for killifish enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper connection with nature’s rhythms.

Add elegance and rarity to your aquarium—choose Nothobranchius fuscotaeniatus today!