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Eggers' Notho
Nothobranchius eggersi
Also known as Eggers Killifish, Eggers Nothobranchius
Animalia›Chordata›Cyprinodontiformes›Nothobranchiidae
Eggers' Notho is a small, colorful killifish native to East Africa, prized for its vibrant red and blue coloration and relatively hardy nature. These annual killifish are best kept in species-specific or carefully planned community tanks due to their specialized breeding requirements and preference for cooler water temperatures. They are excellent choices for experienced aquarists looking to breed killifish or maintain a specialized biotope setup.
Where it's from
Native to the Ruaha river basin
Tanzania
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
Eggers' Notho require small live foods such as microworms, newly hatched brine shrimp, and small copepods. Feed small portions 2-3 times daily. They may accept high-quality frozen foods but live food is strongly preferred for optimal coloration and breeding condition.
Behavior
These killifish are active swimmers that occupy all tank levels, displaying territorial behavior especially among males. They are relatively short-lived annual killifish with a lifespan of 1-2 years in captivity. Males display vibrant coloration and will chase females and other males, making them best kept in species tanks or with very carefully selected peaceful companions.
Breeding
Eggers' Notho are annual killifish that breed readily in captivity with proper conditioning. Breeding requires peat moss or specialized spawning substrate where eggs are laid and can be stored dry for several months before hatching. Breeding is moderately difficult and requires dedicated setup, temperature control, and knowledge of killifish reproduction.
Tank mates
See all 5Similar size and water requirements, though monitoring for aggression is necessary
Can be kept together but may compete or hybridize; species tank preferred
Comparable size and peaceful nature, though separate breeding tanks recommended
Bottom-dwelling, non-competitive; prefers similar cool water temperatures
Similar temperature preferences but may compete for food; monitor closely
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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, flashing, lethargy, loss of appetite
Increase temperature gradually to 24-26 C (75-79 F) if tolerated, add aquarium salt, perform water changes, use ich medication; note that killifish are sensitive to some treatments
Fin Rot
Fraying or deterioration of fin edges, discoloration, fin loss
Improve water quality with frequent water changes, remove decaying matter, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure proper temperature and avoid overcrowding
Velvet Disease (Oodinium)
Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, rapid breathing, lethargy
Increase aeration, perform water changes, use copper-free velvet medication; raise temperature slightly if tolerated; maintain excellent water quality
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, ulcers, cloudy eyes, swollen belly, fin damage
Improve water conditions immediately, perform large water changes, use broad-spectrum antibiotic medication, isolate affected fish if possible
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.
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