Nothobranchius palmqvisti

Adults typically reach 5–6 cm in length. Males are larger and have a striking green-blue body coloration that smoothly transitions to red hues towards the tail. Yellow speckles may be present in their coloration, depending on the fish's region of origin. Females are smaller and less flashy; their primary color is gray-pink, without bright patterns.

This species originates from tropical regions of Africa. It is widespread in Kenya and Tanzania. Nothobranchius palmqvisti inhabits coastal lowlands, swampy areas, river floodplains, and shallow temporary bodies of water. During droughts, the fish migrate from drying areas to more stable water bodies.

Males often compete with each other for territory and the attention of females. In small aquariums, constant skirmishes are almost inevitable, so it is preferable to keep a group consisting of one male and several females. These fish are compatible with other species if they can also thrive in similar cool conditions.

For a group of 3–4 fish, the optimal aquarium volume starts from 20–40 liters. It is recommended to create many aquatic plants inside the aquarium and use a soft, dark substrate. Lighting should be subdued, and floating plants on the surface will help create additional shade. This species prefers rather cool water, with a temperature that should not exceed 22°C, meaning that instead of heating the aquarium, cooling it will likely be necessary. Care for Nothobranchius palmqvisti includes standard procedures for maintaining a stable aquatic environment: regular weekly partial water changes, removal of organic waste, cleaning of glass and decorative elements as they become dirty, and preventive equipment maintenance.

The basis of their daily diet should consist of live or frozen foods of appropriate size. Dry foods, although they may be used by some breeders, should serve exclusively as a supplement to the main diet.

In their natural environment, reproduction occurs with the onset of the dry season. Eggs are laid in a layer of silt at the bottom. The body of water can completely dry out for several months, and all this time the eggs await the first rains, deep within the substrate. This cycle must be recreated in home conditions. Nothobranchius palmqvisti reaches sexual maturity at approximately 1.5–2 months. It is advisable to breed them in a separate spawning aquarium. Boiled and well-rinsed peat or special spawning materials for Killifish can be used as a substrate. One pair can lay up to one hundred eggs. The substrate with the eggs is removed from the aquarium and kept moist for approximately 2.5 months at a temperature of 26–28°C. During this period, the eggs gradually mature. If you look at them through a magnifying glass, you will be able to see the clearly formed eye of the fry. After flooding the substrate with fresh water at a temperature of about 18°C, the first fry appear within two hours.

The fish are hardy and undemanding. Diseases usually manifest only with a significant deterioration in keeping conditions. In a balanced aquarium ecosystem, health problems are generally absent.

When selecting individuals, attention should be paid to their activity and the absence of visible damage, such as ulcers, film, or fin rot. Healthy fish should have clear eyes and tightly pressed scales. It is important to consider that this species has a very short life cycle, so it is preferable to acquire young individuals to be able to observe their development and reproduction for longer. Avoid fish with signs of emaciation or lethargic behavior, as they may be weakened by improper keeping conditions in the store.