Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus) – The Tiny Rocket of the Aquarium

Small, striking, and packed with personality, the Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus)—also known as the Banded Panchax—is a delightful addition to nano and planted aquariums. With bold vertical stripes and a tail that resembles a rocket flame, this West African native is a favorite among aquascaping enthusiasts and killifish lovers alike.

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? Species Overview

• Common Names: Clown Killifish, Rocket Killifish, Banded Panchax

• Scientific Name: Epiplatys annulatus

• Origin: West Africa – Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea

• Size: 1–1.5 inches (3–4 cm)

• Lifespan: 2–3 years

• Temperament: Peaceful and shy

• Diet: Carnivorous micropredator

• Tank Level: Surface dweller

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? A Living Work of Art

Clown Killifish are instantly recognizable thanks to their dramatic coloration. Males display bold black vertical stripes with splashes of electric blue and a striking tail colored in red, orange, and yellow—like a tiny rocket flame. Females are less colorful but still beautifully striped.

Their eye-catching appearance and peaceful nature make them perfect for small, planted aquariums or species-only tanks where their delicate beauty can truly shine.

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? Behavior & Compatibility

These fish are generally peaceful but can be shy, especially when housed with boisterous or larger species. They do well in small groups (6 or more) and are best kept in species-only setups or with other small, gentle fish.

Great Tank Mates Include:

• Chili Rasboras

• Ember Tetras

• Dwarf Shrimp (like Neocaridina)

• Sparkling Gourami

• Other peaceful nano fish

Avoid housing them with aggressive or fast-swimming species that might outcompete them for food.

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? Tank Setup & Requirements

• Tank Size: 5–10 gallons minimum

• Substrate: Fine sand or dark gravel

• Decor: Floating plants, driftwood, leaf litter

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 72–78°F

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Soft to moderately hard water

• Lighting: Low to moderate (helps with their shy nature)

• Filtration: Gentle flow preferred

Because they are surface dwellers, floating plants like duckweed, Salvinia, or Amazon frogbit help them feel secure and mimic their natural habitat.

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?️ Diet & Feeding

Clown Killifish are micropredators that thrive on live and frozen foods. Their small mouths mean tiny food sizes are a must.

Recommended Foods:

• Baby brine shrimp

• Daphnia

• Microworms

• Grindal worms

• High-quality micro pellets

• Frozen cyclops or bloodworms (cut or fine)

For optimal health and coloration, feed a variety of small, protein-rich foods.

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? Breeding Notes

Clown Killifish are egg scatterers and relatively easy to breed in well-maintained aquariums. They lay adhesive eggs on floating plants or moss. A separate breeding tank with gentle filtration and plenty of fine-leaved plants will encourage spawning.

Eggs typically hatch in 10–14 days, and fry should be fed infusoria or powdered fry food until they’re large enough to accept baby brine shrimp.

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✅ Why Keep Clown Killifish?

✔ Stunning, rocket-like coloration
✔ Ideal for nano and planted tanks
✔ Peaceful and easygoing with the right tank mates
✔ Fun surface activity and interesting breeding behavior

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