Epiplatys lamottei Care Guide

Epiplatys lamottei is a colourful West African surface killifish from upper Niger brooks, kept in soft, warm aquaria.

Overview

Epiplatys lamottei, the red-spotted panchax, is a surface killifish of the family Nothobranchiidae. FishBase records it at up to 7.0 cm total length, notes it is not a seasonal killifish, and considers it difficult to maintain in the aquarium.

Taxonomy

• Family: Nothobranchiidae
• Genus: Epiplatys
• Scientific name: Epiplatys lamottei

Habitat

FishBase places the species in southeastern Guinea and northern Liberia, within the upper Niger River basin, where it inhabits brooks.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 40 L (about 11 gal)
• Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
• pH: 5.5-7.0
• GH: 2-10 °dGH
• Lifespan: 2-4 years

Diet

A carnivorous micropredator that takes small live and frozen foods near the surface.

Compatibility

A surface-oriented species best kept with small, calm companions such as tetras and pencilfish in a quiet, shaded tank. A tight cover is needed to prevent jumping.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2020), per FishBase.