Nothobranchius korthausae

The fish has an elongated body, with a pointed small head and widely set, rounded fins. The main coloration consists of reddish-brown tones with rows of turquoise dots. Within the species, various color variations occur, where a yellow hue may predominate over red. Females usually appear significantly more modest in coloration, displaying paler tones.

This fish originates from the African continent, specifically from one of the island regions off the coast of Tanzania — the Mafia Islands. In its natural habitat, Nothobranchius korthausae prefers numerous small lakes and bodies of water characterized by stagnant water.

This fish exhibits a relatively calm and peaceful disposition towards other species. However, within its own species, the situation can be significantly more complex. Males are prone to conflicts and fierce fights, especially if there are not enough females and limited free space. To maintain balance, it is important that there are at least two females per male, and the habitat area corresponds to an aquarium of about 40 L.

For a pair of fish to live comfortably, a tank of 40 L or more is sufficient; for a larger number of individuals, a correspondingly larger aquarium will be required. When creating the aquarium's decor composition, the focus should be on two main elements: floating plants and a soft substrate. Floating plants can occupy a significant portion of the water's surface, while leaving some free space. Sand mixed with peat is preferred as substrate. Other details of the underwater landscape are chosen based on personal preferences. Nothobranchius korthausae inhabits soft, acidic water, and although parameters can fluctuate within this range (i.e., the water can be more or less acidic, more or less soft), it is not advisable to go beyond these limits. Detailed information on water parameters (pH and dGH values), as well as methods for regulating them, can be found in the "Hydrochemical composition of water" section. The minimum equipment set includes a heater, aerator, light, and filter, with alder cones and dried leaves recommended for filtration to help maintain the necessary water acidity. Weekly aquarium maintenance includes replacing 10–20% of the water with fresh. Also, as needed, the substrate should be cleaned of organic waste (such as excrement and uneaten food residues) and the aquarium walls wiped.

It is recommended to include live food in the diet, such as small crustaceans (Daphnia), bloodworms, or small worms. If live food is unavailable, frozen food should be combined with dry mixes (flakes, granules) from reputable manufacturers. It is important that dry foods contain a sufficient percentage of protein components. Avoid feeding exclusively dry food, as this can lead to digestive problems. Fish should be fed 2–3 times a day, offering portions they can eat within a few minutes. Uneaten food residues must be removed to prevent contamination of the aquarium water.

Successful breeding of Nothobranchius korthausae does not require special preparations. They can successfully spawn even in an empty aquarium, laying eggs directly on the glass. Nevertheless, it is recommended to create optimal conditions for them. Typically, the female lays eggs in a peat substrate, where they develop for 4–6 weeks at a temperature of 25–26°C. A peculiarity is that the incubation period can successfully occur both underwater and in moist peat, without the eggs suffering. This is an evolutionary adaptation due to the frequent drying up of water bodies in their natural habitat.

Like other members of the family, this species has low immunity to infectious diseases when keeping conditions are violated. The main problems are skin and fin lesions caused by bacterial infections or fungi, which develop in water contaminated with organic waste. Fish are extremely sensitive to sharp fluctuations in hydrochemical parameters and the accumulation of nitrates. Prevention includes weekly water changes, control over feeding quality, and the use of alder cone filter materials to maintain a naturally acidic environment, which helps reduce the risk of pathogenic outbreaks.

When purchasing, choose active fish with bright coloration appropriate for their sex, and clean, spread fins without signs of plaque or erosion. Avoid individuals with sunken bellies, signs of lethargy, or unnatural behavior, such as constantly hovering near the surface. It is recommended to acquire a group of one male and several females to reduce intraspecific aggression, and to clarify in advance the conditions in which the fish were kept in the store, as an abrupt change in water parameters can lead to stress and premature death.