RED TAIL NOTHO

Red Tail Notho (Notho) refers to Nothobranchius guentheri, commonly known as the Redtail Notho or Guenther's Nothobranch. It is a stunning and popular killifish known for its vibrant colors and short lifespan, which is typical of many killifish species. Here is a comprehensive care guide for the Red Tail Notho:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A small tank is sufficient for these fish, as they are relatively small, growing up to about 2 inches (5 cm) in length. A 5-10 gallon tank is suitable for a pair or small group.
• Aquascape: Red Tail Nothos prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots. Use fine-leaved plants, driftwood, and leaf litter to create a natural environment. This setup provides hiding places and mimics their natural habitat.
• Substrate: A dark-colored substrate, such as fine sand or gravel, enhances their colors and creates a more natural look.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. Too much light can make them feel exposed, so it is advisable to have floating plants to provide shaded areas.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Red Tail Nothos prefer temperatures between 72-77°F (22-25°C). Use a heater to maintain a stable temperature.
• pH: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is ideal, with a general hardness (GH) of 4-12 dGH.
• Water Quality: Regular water changes are crucial. Perform 10-20% weekly water changes to maintain water quality. Use a water conditioner to treat tap water before adding it to the tank.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: A sponge filter is ideal, as it provides gentle filtration without creating strong currents. This type of filter also ensures that the fry are not sucked into the filter.
• Water Flow: These fish prefer low to moderate water flow. Avoid strong currents, as Red Tail Nothos are not strong swimmers.

Feeding

• Diet: Red Tail Nothos are carnivorous and require a protein-rich diet. They thrive on live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and mosquito larvae. They may also accept high-quality micro-pellets or flakes formulated for carnivorous fish.
• Variety: A varied diet ensures they receive all necessary nutrients and maintain vibrant colors.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice daily, offering only as much food as they can consume in a few minutes to avoid overfeeding and water quality issues.