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Argentine Pearlfish
Austrolebias bellottii
Also known as Bellotti's Pearlfish, Argentine Killifish
Animalia›Chordata›Cyprinodontiformes›Rivulidae
The Argentine Pearlfish is a small, colorful killifish native to South America, known for its iridescent pearl-like spots and vibrant coloration. These fish are relatively hardy and make excellent additions to small aquariums, though they require specific water conditions and careful tank mate selection. They are annual fish in nature, meaning they have a short lifespan but can produce eggs that survive in dried substrate.
Where it's from
Native to the El Pescado, Negro Uruguay, Parana, Salado and 1 other river basins
Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil
At a glance
- Size
- 1.5 in
- 4 cm
- Min tank
- 10 gal
- 38 L
- Temp
- 64–72°F
- 18–22°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 71–143 ppm
- 4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Swims
- All levels
- Lifespan
- 1-2 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Argentine Pearlfish are carnivorous and prefer small live foods such as daphnia, mosquito larvae, and small brine shrimp. Feed small portions 1-2 times daily. They may accept high-quality frozen foods but live food promotes better coloration and health.
Behavior
These killifish are active swimmers that occupy all water zones, displaying territorial behavior especially among males. They are relatively peaceful with appropriate tank mates but may nip at smaller fish or those with flowing fins. They are most active during cooler parts of the day and prefer dimly lit environments.
Breeding
Argentine Pearlfish are substrate spawners that lay eggs in fine sand or peat moss. Breeding is moderately difficult and requires separate breeding tanks with proper substrate. Eggs can be removed and stored in moist peat for several months to simulate dry season conditions before hatching.
Tank mates
See all 5Similar size and temperament, both prefer cooler temperatures
Compatible killifish species with similar care requirements
Can be kept together but may compete for territory
Small, peaceful fish that occupy different water zones
Small but may be nipped at; requires careful observation
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Common diseases 4Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Fin Rot, Velvet Disease (Oodinium), Bacterial Infection
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects
Increase temperature gradually to 24-26 C (75-79 F), add aquarium salt, perform water changes, use ich medication if severe
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, fin loss
Improve water quality with frequent water changes, reduce stress, use antibacterial medication, ensure proper nutrition
Velvet Disease (Oodinium)
Gold or rust-colored dust on body, rapid breathing, lethargy, scratching behavior
Increase temperature to 26-28 C (79-82 F), reduce light exposure, use copper-free velvet medication, perform water changes
Bacterial Infection
Sores on body, cloudy eyes, swollen abdomen, loss of appetite
Improve water quality, isolate affected fish, use broad-spectrum antibacterial medication, maintain optimal temperature
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).
At a glance
- Size
- 1.5 in4 cm
- Min tank
- 10 gal38 L
- Temp
- 64–72°F18–22°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Swims
- All levels
- Lifespan
- 1-2 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Keepers’ experiences
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