Fin's Fish Guide
The Beira killifish (Nothobranchius orthonotus) is a freshwater fish of the family Nothobranchiidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The spotted nothobranch is a small, colourful killifish of the family Nothobranchiidae from south-eastern Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm; males are brightly coloured red and blue, females plain brownish. It inhabits temporary pools, floodplains, swamps, rice fields and ditches that dry up in the dry season. It is a true seasonal or 'annual' killifish: the eggs survive the drought in the soil in a resting phase (diapause) and hatch once the rains refill the pools, after which the fish grow and reproduce rapidly. It feeds on insect larvae and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Beira killifish?
The Beira killifish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. True seasonal killifish: the eggs survive the drought in diapause and hatch with the rains.
Where does the Beira killifish live?
The Beira killifish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern Africa; temporary pools, floodplains and swamps.
How big does the Beira killifish get?
The Beira killifish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Beira killifish dangerous to humans?
No, the Beira killifish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Beira killifish edible?
The Beira killifish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nothobranchius
More from the family Nothobranchiidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Beira killifish is one of 12,519 species in the app.