Fin's Fish Guide
The Cardinal nothobranch (Nothobranchius cardinalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Nothobranchiidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The Cardinal nothobranch is an annual killifish (Nothobranchiidae) from temporary rain pools and swamps of the savanna of the Rufiji basin in Tanzania in East Africa. The species grows to about 5 cm; the male is brightly coloured with red, blue or orange tints and a scaled pattern. When the pools dry up in the dry season the adults die, but their eggs survive in the soil and hatch after the next rains. It eats mosquito larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cardinal nothobranch?
The Cardinal nothobranch has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly multicoloured.
Where does the Cardinal nothobranch live?
The Cardinal nothobranch lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Africa: Tanzania
How big does the Cardinal nothobranch get?
The Cardinal nothobranch grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Cardinal nothobranch dangerous to humans?
No, the Cardinal nothobranch is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Cardinal nothobranch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cardinal nothobranch is one of 12,519 species in the app.