Description
Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Epiplatys annulatus
Common Names: Clown Killifish, Banded Panchax, Banded Killifish
Family: Nothobranchiidae (Killifish Family)
Order: Cyprinodontiformes
Origin: West Africa — mainly Ghana, Sierra Leone, and surrounding freshwater streams and ponds
Size: Up to 1.5 inches (3–4 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 2 – 3 years
Tank Zone: Mid to upper water column
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 50 – 150 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 22 – 26°C (72 – 79°F)
Hardness: 5 – 12 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Small, slender body with smooth scales.
Coloration: Silvery to golden body with bold black vertical bands; males are more colorful and patterned than females.
Fins: Rounded dorsal and anal fins; slightly forked caudal fin with subtle red or orange tips in males.
Behavior: Peaceful, active, and shoaling; males may display to females during breeding.
Nature: Diurnal; prefers planted areas and floating vegetation for security.
Special Feature: One of the smallest killifish species, popular for nano tanks; attractive banded pattern gives “clown-like” appearance.
🍽️ Food
Type: Carnivorous/Omnivorous
Diet: Live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, micro-worms, and bloodworms; high-quality micro-pellets.
Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily.
Tip: Live foods encourage active behavior and breeding.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 20 liters (5 gallons) for a pair.
Filtration: Gentle filtration; avoid strong currents.
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel; floating plants recommended.
Decor: Plants, moss, and driftwood; floating vegetation for shade and security.
Lighting: Moderate; helps show off colors without stressing fish.
Water Change: 15–20% weekly; maintain stable water quality.
👥 Social Behavior
Group Size: Best kept as pairs or small groups.
Tank Mates: Peaceful small fish like small rasboras, micro rasboras, and other dwarf killifish.
Avoid: Large or aggressive fish.
Compatibility Note: Males may be territorial; provide hiding spots to reduce stress.
✅ Do’s
Keep in pairs or small groups for best behavior.
Provide plenty of plants and floating cover.
Feed live or frozen foods to maintain health and coloration.
Maintain stable, clean water conditions.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep with large or aggressive species.
Don’t overcrowd nano tanks; they are small but active.
Don’t neglect water quality; sensitive to poor conditions.
⭐ Quick Tips
Clown Killifish are small, colorful, and peaceful freshwater fish, perfect for nano aquariums or planted tanks. Their striking banded pattern and active schooling behavior make them an attractive choice for hobbyists seeking tiny, vibrant fish for mid-water levels.






