The Lourens's nothobranch (Nothobranchius lourensi) is a freshwater fish of the family Nothobranchiidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
Lourens's nothobranch is a small, colourful seasonal killifish from coastal plains of Tanzania in East Africa. The species grows to about 5 cm; males are bright blue to turquoise with orange fin edges, females inconspicuous brownish. It lives in temporary rain pools that dry out in the dry season; the eggs survive in the soil and hatch when the pools refill. The fish therefore has a very short life. It is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lourens's nothobranch?
The Lourens's nothobranch has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Lourens's nothobranch live?
The Lourens's nothobranch lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Lourens's nothobranch get?
The Lourens's nothobranch grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Lourens's nothobranch dangerous to humans?
No, the Lourens's nothobranch is harmless to humans.
Is the Lourens's nothobranch edible?
The Lourens's nothobranch is not usually eaten.
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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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