Korthaus's Notho

Nothobranchius korthausae

📍 East Africa (Tanzania)

Korthaus's Notho is a small, colorful killifish native to Tanzania with vibrant red and blue coloration in males. These annual killifish are popular among experienced aquarists due to their stunning appearance and unique breeding requirements. They are best kept in species-specific or carefully planned community setups due to their specialized care needs.

Size1.6"

Min Tank10g

semi-aggressive

Zoneall

Care Guide

Diet

Korthaus's Notho require small live foods such as microworms, daphnia, and newly hatched brine shrimp. Feed small portions 2-3 times daily. They may accept high-quality frozen foods but live food is strongly preferred for optimal coloration and health.

Behavior

These killifish are active swimmers that display territorial behavior, especially males toward each other. They spend most of their time in the middle water column and are relatively shy, preferring densely planted tanks with hiding spots. Males display vibrant colors during courtship and territorial disputes.

Breeding

Korthaus's Notho are annual killifish requiring specialized breeding setup with peat moss substrate for egg deposition. Breeding is moderately difficult and requires patience, as eggs must be stored in moist peat for several months before hatching. Separate breeding tanks and careful water parameter management are essential for successful reproduction.

Tank Mates

Clown Killifish

Similar size and temperament; both prefer cooler water and live foods

good

Gardneri Killifish

Compatible killifish species with similar care requirements

good

Least Killifish

Very small; may be viewed as prey; requires careful monitoring

caution

Pencilfish

Small, peaceful fish that share similar water parameter preferences

good

Ember Tetra

Small size acceptable but killifish may be aggressive; monitor closely

caution

Common Diseases

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against surfaces

Treatment

Raise temperature gradually to 24-26 C (75-79 F), perform daily water changes, use aquarium salt or ich medication; maintain excellent water quality

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy

Treatment

Improve water quality with frequent water changes, remove decaying food/plants, use antibacterial medication if severe; maintain pristine tank conditions

Velvet Disease (Oodinium)

Symptoms

Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, rapid breathing, loss of appetite, clamped fins

Treatment

Increase aeration, raise temperature to 26-28 C (79-82 F), use copper-free medication; perform daily water changes and maintain excellent filtration

Bacterial Infection

Symptoms

Open sores, cloudy eyes, swollen abdomen, loss of appetite, behavioral changes

Treatment

Perform large water changes, use antibiotic medication, isolate affected fish if possible; maintain optimal water parameters and remove uneaten food promptly