Clown Killifish care guide
Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus) — minimum tank 20 L, temperature 23-26 °C, pH 5.5-7. Peaceful top-water species.
Overview
The Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus) is a tiny West African surface-dwelling killifish recognised by cream and black horizontal bands and, in males, a flame-shaped tail. It is one of the smallest killifish species and a striking inhabitant of densely planted nano tanks.
Taxonomy
- Family: Nothobranchiidae
- Genus: Epiplatys
- Scientific name: Epiplatys annulatus
- Common synonyms: Banded Panchax, Rocket Killifish
Habitat
Native to lowland swamps and slow-moving streams in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia, often in open savanna and tropical rainforest. The waters are warm, soft and acidic and the species typically occupies the upper few centimetres of the water column.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 20 L (5.3 US gal)
- Adult size: 2-3.5 cm
- Temperature: 23-26 °C (73-79 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 2-8 °dGH
- Water flow: none
- Lifespan: 2-4 years
- School size: ≥4 individuals
Diet
A surface-feeding micropredator. Offer small live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp nauplii, Daphnia, Moina and grindal worms; appropriately sized dried foods may be accepted. The species typically refuses food that has sunk below the surface.
Compatibility
Peaceful but shy. Keep in a group of at least four to encourage natural behaviour. Suitable companions include Ember Tetra, Chili Rasbora, Pygmy Corydoras and dwarf shrimp; very small shrimplets may be eaten. Avoid active or large fish that monopolise surface feeding.
Breeding
A plant-spawner. In a mature, well-planted tank with mosses or fine-leaved plants, fry can survive without intervention. Eggs incubate for approximately 9-12 days at 24-25 °C. Newly hatched fry require very small live foods such as infusoria and microworms before they can accept brine shrimp nauplii.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. The species is widespread within its West African range but localised habitat loss and over-collection for the aquarium trade are known pressures.