Clown killifish
Epiplatys annulatus · Nothobranchiidae
Also known as Rocket killifish, Banded panchax
Intermediate
A tiny surface killifish with a rocket-flame tail; jumps, so keep the lid closed.
In short: A clown killifish needs at least 40 L (11 US gal), water at 22–28 °C (72–82 °F) and pH 4.5–7. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 6 or more, and rated intermediate to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 40 L (11 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- pH
- 4.5–7
- Adult size
- 3.5 cm (1.4 in)
- Group size
- 6+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 40 L (11 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- pH
- 4.5–7
- Hardness
- 0–8 dGH
- Lifespan
- 2–4 years
- Diet
- Micro-carnivore — baby brine, daphnia, tiny floating food.
- Care level
- Intermediate
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- West African coastal swamps
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Shallow, still, tannin-stained forest pools
- Natural conditions
- Soft acidic still water with floating plants and a tight lid.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 6 fish
- Swims
- Top
- Good tank mates
- Chili rasboraPygmy corydorasCherry shrimp
- Avoid
- Open-topped tanksLarger fishStrong flow
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males have brighter blue-red tail rays.
- Notes
- Lays eggs in floating moss continuously; not a diapause species.
- Common ailments
- Jumping outVelvetStarvation on flake
Will it fit your tank?
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