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Blackfin Pearlfish
Austrolebias nigripinnis
Also known as Blackfin Pearl Killifish, Nigripinnis Killifish
Animalia›Chordata›Cyprinodontiformes›Rivulidae
Austrolebias nigripinnis, commonly known as the Blackfin Pearlfish, is a small South American killifish prized for its striking dark fins and pearl-like body coloration. These are annual killifish that thrive in cooler, slightly acidic waters and are best suited for dedicated species tanks or carefully planned community setups. They are relatively hardy once acclimated but require specific water conditions and regular maintenance.
Where it's from
Native to the Negro Uruguay, Parana and Uruguay river basins
Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil
Recorded as introduced in Philippines
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
Blackfin Pearlfish are carnivorous and require small live foods such as microworms, fruit flies, and small daphnia. Feed small portions daily or every other day. They may accept high-quality frozen foods but prefer live prey to stimulate natural hunting behavior.
Behavior
These killifish are active swimmers that occupy all water zones, displaying territorial behavior especially during breeding season. Males are more aggressive than females and may chase smaller tankmates. They are relatively short-lived annual killifish with natural lifespans of 1-2 years.
Breeding
Austrolebias nigripinnis are annual killifish that breed readily in captivity. Provide fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg deposition. Eggs can be collected and stored in peat moss for several months to simulate dry season conditions before hatching. Breeding pairs should be isolated in smaller tanks to prevent aggression.
Tank mates
See all 5Similar size and temperament, both killifish species can coexist with careful monitoring
Small size makes them potential prey; only suitable in larger tanks with dense vegetation
Provides spawning substrate and cover without competing for space
Creates ideal breeding habitat and provides cover for fry
Peaceful algae eater that won't compete with killifish for food
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Common diseases 4Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Fin Rot, Bacterial Infection, Parasitic Infection
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, flashing against surfaces
Increase temperature gradually to 24-26 C (75-79 F), perform daily water changes, use aquarium salt or commercial ich treatment; maintain excellent water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, fin loss
Perform frequent water changes, improve water quality, remove any sharp decorations, use antibacterial medication if severe
Bacterial Infection
Sores on body, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, behavioral changes
Isolate affected fish, perform daily water changes, use broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment, maintain pristine water conditions
Parasitic Infection
Excessive scratching, visible parasites, weight loss, clamped fins
Use anti-parasitic medication, perform water changes, quarantine affected fish, treat tank if necessary
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: Global Register of Introduced and Invasive Species (CC BY 4.0); 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.
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