Austrolebias nigripinnis

Description

Blackfin Pearl Killifish (Austrolebias nigripinnis)

An exceptional South American annual killifish, the Blackfin Pearl Killifish is prized for its iridescent blue body, dramatic black fins and fascinating natural life cycle. Rarely seen in the aquarium hobby, this species is best suited to experienced aquarists and dedicated killifish enthusiasts.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Austrolebias nigripinnis
  • Common name: Blackfin Pearl Killifish
  • Adult size: Approximately 5–7 cm
  • Tank size: 30L+ recommended
  • Difficulty: πŸ”΄ Advanced
  • Temperament: Peaceful, males may be territorial during breeding
  • Best kept: Pairs or breeding groups

Is this for you?

βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

  • You're an experienced killifish keeper.
  • You enjoy collecting rare annual killifish.
  • You're interested in breeding specialist species.
  • You appreciate unique natural behaviours and life cycles.

❌ Avoid if:

  • You're new to fishkeeping.
  • You want a colourful community fish.
  • You keep aggressive or highly active species.
  • You cannot provide specialised care and breeding conditions.

Why choose Blackfin Pearl Killifish?

Austrolebias nigripinnis is one of South America's most attractive annual killifish. Mature males develop shimmering blue to turquoise bodies contrasted by striking black fins, creating a spectacular display that becomes even more impressive during courtship.

In nature, this species inhabits temporary wetlands, floodplains and seasonal pools throughout parts of Uruguay and Argentina. As these habitats dry each year, the adults complete their life cycle while their eggs remain dormant within the substrate until seasonal rains return.

Their remarkable biology, combined with their rarity and stunning appearance, makes them a favourite among dedicated killifish breeders and collectors around the world.

Benefits

  • Rare and highly collectible annual killifish
  • Brilliant iridescent blue body colouration
  • Distinctive black fins in mature males
  • Ideal for dedicated breeding projects
  • Fascinating natural annual life cycle
  • Excellent species for experienced hobbyists

Care made simple

  • Temperature: 18–24Β°C
  • pH: 6.0–7.5
  • Diet: Live foods, frozen foods and quality micro pellets
  • Water: Clean, soft to moderately hard water with gentle filtration
  • Setup: Species aquarium with fine spawning substrate, floating plants and subdued lighting
  • Lid: A tightly fitting lid is essential as killifish are excellent jumpers.
  • Perform small, regular water changes to maintain pristine water quality.

Pairs perfectly with

  • Species-only aquariums
  • Annual killifish breeding setups
  • Floating plants
  • Peat-based spawning media
  • Indian Almond Leaves
NTA Insight:
Unlike many aquarium fish, Austrolebias nigripinnis has evolved to survive seasonal droughts. During breeding, eggs are deposited into soft spawning media where they naturally enter a period of diapause (developmental dormancy). Experienced breeders carefully control incubation before rehydrating the eggs to trigger hatching, making annual killifish one of the most fascinating groups in the hobby.

FAQ

How big does Blackfin Pearl Killifish grow?

Adults typically reach 5–7 cm, with males developing the most vibrant colours and distinctive black fins.

Is this species suitable for beginners?

No. This species is recommended for experienced aquarists due to its specialised care requirements and annual breeding cycle.

What is an annual killifish?

Annual killifish naturally inhabit temporary pools that dry out each year. Their eggs survive the dry season in the substrate before hatching when rains return, allowing the species to persist in seasonal habitats.

Can Blackfin Pearl Killifish live in a community aquarium?

They are best maintained in a dedicated species aquarium or with very peaceful companions that share similar water requirements.

Do they require live food?

Regular live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms are highly recommended to maintain excellent colour, health and breeding condition.

Austrolebias nigripinnis

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$50.00


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    Description

    Blackfin Pearl Killifish (Austrolebias nigripinnis)

    An exceptional South American annual killifish, the Blackfin Pearl Killifish is prized for its iridescent blue body, dramatic black fins and fascinating natural life cycle. Rarely seen in the aquarium hobby, this species is best suited to experienced aquarists and dedicated killifish enthusiasts.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Austrolebias nigripinnis
    • Common name: Blackfin Pearl Killifish
    • Adult size: Approximately 5–7 cm
    • Tank size: 30L+ recommended
    • Difficulty: πŸ”΄ Advanced
    • Temperament: Peaceful, males may be territorial during breeding
    • Best kept: Pairs or breeding groups

    Is this for you?

    βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

    • You're an experienced killifish keeper.
    • You enjoy collecting rare annual killifish.
    • You're interested in breeding specialist species.
    • You appreciate unique natural behaviours and life cycles.

    ❌ Avoid if:

    • You're new to fishkeeping.
    • You want a colourful community fish.
    • You keep aggressive or highly active species.
    • You cannot provide specialised care and breeding conditions.

    Why choose Blackfin Pearl Killifish?

    Austrolebias nigripinnis is one of South America's most attractive annual killifish. Mature males develop shimmering blue to turquoise bodies contrasted by striking black fins, creating a spectacular display that becomes even more impressive during courtship.

    In nature, this species inhabits temporary wetlands, floodplains and seasonal pools throughout parts of Uruguay and Argentina. As these habitats dry each year, the adults complete their life cycle while their eggs remain dormant within the substrate until seasonal rains return.

    Their remarkable biology, combined with their rarity and stunning appearance, makes them a favourite among dedicated killifish breeders and collectors around the world.

    Benefits

    • Rare and highly collectible annual killifish
    • Brilliant iridescent blue body colouration
    • Distinctive black fins in mature males
    • Ideal for dedicated breeding projects
    • Fascinating natural annual life cycle
    • Excellent species for experienced hobbyists

    Care made simple

    • Temperature: 18–24Β°C
    • pH: 6.0–7.5
    • Diet: Live foods, frozen foods and quality micro pellets
    • Water: Clean, soft to moderately hard water with gentle filtration
    • Setup: Species aquarium with fine spawning substrate, floating plants and subdued lighting
    • Lid: A tightly fitting lid is essential as killifish are excellent jumpers.
    • Perform small, regular water changes to maintain pristine water quality.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Species-only aquariums
    • Annual killifish breeding setups
    • Floating plants
    • Peat-based spawning media
    • Indian Almond Leaves
    NTA Insight:
    Unlike many aquarium fish, Austrolebias nigripinnis has evolved to survive seasonal droughts. During breeding, eggs are deposited into soft spawning media where they naturally enter a period of diapause (developmental dormancy). Experienced breeders carefully control incubation before rehydrating the eggs to trigger hatching, making annual killifish one of the most fascinating groups in the hobby.

    FAQ

    How big does Blackfin Pearl Killifish grow?

    Adults typically reach 5–7 cm, with males developing the most vibrant colours and distinctive black fins.

    Is this species suitable for beginners?

    No. This species is recommended for experienced aquarists due to its specialised care requirements and annual breeding cycle.

    What is an annual killifish?

    Annual killifish naturally inhabit temporary pools that dry out each year. Their eggs survive the dry season in the substrate before hatching when rains return, allowing the species to persist in seasonal habitats.

    Can Blackfin Pearl Killifish live in a community aquarium?

    They are best maintained in a dedicated species aquarium or with very peaceful companions that share similar water requirements.

    Do they require live food?

    Regular live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms are highly recommended to maintain excellent colour, health and breeding condition.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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