
AI-generated image
Small beautiful fish found worldwide. Males display incredibly vivid colors like gems. Over 1000 species, popular with enthusiasts.
Killifish is a broad term encompassing approximately 1,270 species of egg-laying cyprinodontiform fish found across Africa, South America, Southeast Asia, and North America. In the aquarium hobby, the most celebrated group is the annual killifish — genera such as Nothobranchius (Africa) and Austrolebias (South America) — inhabiting temporary pools that dry up seasonally. These fish complete their entire life cycle within one rainy season, laying desiccation-resistant eggs in the substrate that survive the dry season and hatch with the return of rain. Most killifish are small (2–10 cm), and males display extraordinary jewel-like coloration in blues, reds, oranges, and yellows. Water requirements vary by species — from soft, acidic water to harder, neutral conditions — but most prefer moderate parameters with a lean toward slightly acidic.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Killifish lives 1-5 years (varies).
The short lifespan of annuals (1–2 years) is offset by their rapid breeding cycle and the unique 'dry storage' breeding method: eggs laid in peat moss are carefully dried and stored for weeks or months before being rehydrated to trigger hatching.
The Killifish grows to 3-8cm.
Origin
freshwater habitats worldwide, including Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia
Lifespan
1-5 years (varies)
Size
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Find listings for this species
3-8cm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Frozen food, live food, pellets
20cm cube OK. Pair keeping suited
Water requirements range widely from soft to hard depending on species, though most prefer neutral to slightly acidic. Check the native conditions of the species you keep.
Annual species have unique dry-egg dormancy
Annuals under 1 year. Non-annuals 3-5 years
Feed mainly frozen and live foods, adding prepared foods for individuals that have learned to accept them.
A jumper, so a lid is essential; watch for escapes through gaps. Check the lifespan and breeding method of each species before keeping it.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Killifish is 1-5 years (varies). With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Killifish typically reaches 3-8cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Killifish feeds on: Frozen food, live food, pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Killifish varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 13, 2026