The African turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri) is a freshwater fish of the family Nothobranchiidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The turquoise killifish is a small, annual killifish from southeastern Zimbabwe and adjacent Mozambique, in temporary pools of the Save drainage. The species grows to about 6.5 cm; males are bright turquoise with a red tail margin. It lives in pools that dry out completely in the dry season: the fish lays its eggs in the muddy bottom, where they survive the drought and hatch when the rains return. Adults can live less than twelve weeks in captivity, the shortest lifespan known for a vertebrate. As a result the species is an important model organism for aging research. The IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African turquoise killifish?
The African turquoise killifish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the African turquoise killifish live?
The African turquoise killifish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the African turquoise killifish get?
The African turquoise killifish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the African turquoise killifish dangerous to humans?
No, the African turquoise killifish is harmless to humans.
Is the African turquoise killifish edible?
The African turquoise killifish is not usually eaten.
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Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Nothobranchius
More from the family Nothobranchiidae
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