Clown Killifish (1–1.5cm) is a colorful nano top-dweller with bold stripes and lyre-shaped tails—perfect for peaceful, planted tanks and small aquariums.

The Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus), also known as the Banded Panchax, is a stunning nano fish recognized for its vibrant coloration, torpedo-shaped body, and lyre-shaped tail. At just 1 to 1.5cm, these juveniles already begin to show their iconic striped pattern—resembling a miniature rocket or “clown” due to the contrasting black, yellow, and blue stripes across the body and red or blue coloration in the tail.

Native to slow-moving streams and marshes of West Africa, Clown Killifish are surface-dwellers that prefer calm waters, floating plants, and peaceful tank mates. They are excellent additions to nano and heavily planted aquariums, especially those with soft, slightly acidic water.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Epiplatys annulatus

• Common Names: Clown Killifish, Banded Panchax

• Size: 1–1.5cm (juvenile; adults reach 3–4cm)

• Lifespan: 2–3 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, surface-dwelling

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Origin: West Africa (Liberia, Guinea, Sierra Leone)

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more

🌊 Water Conditions

Clown Killifish thrive in soft, warm, and slightly acidic water with minimal flow.

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.0

• Hardness: 1–8 dGH

• Tank Size: 5 gallons and up (ideal for nano aquariums)

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Gentle sponge filter or low-flow filter

• Lighting: Low to moderate; floating plants provide comfort and reduce stress

These fish are surface-oriented, so include floating plants like Salvinia, duckweed, or Amazon frogbit to mimic their natural habitat.

🐟 Tank Mates

Clown Killifish are peaceful but can be shy, so it's best to keep them with gentle, non-aggressive species.

Compatible tank mates:

• Small rasboras (Chili, Strawberry)

• Ember or Neon Tetras

• Pygmy Corydoras

• Otocinclus

• Small shrimp (like Cherry shrimp, with caution)

• Snails (Nerite, Mystery)

Avoid:

• Fast or aggressive fish

• Fin-nippers

• Large or boisterous species

They’re happiest in species-only or peaceful nano setups, where they won’t be outcompeted for food.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Clown Killifish are micropredators and prefer tiny, moving foods, especially near the surface.

Ideal foods include:

• Live/frozen baby brine shrimp

• Microworms, daphnia, or vinegar eels

• Crushed high-quality flakes or nano pellets

• Freeze-dried cyclops or tubifex

Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions. Their upturned mouths are adapted for top-feeding.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Perform gentle weekly water changes (15–20%)

• Avoid strong filtration or high flow

• Use a tight-fitting lid—Clown Killifish are excellent jumpers

• Maintain consistent water parameters

• Provide plant cover and low-stress tank layout

They do best in a quiet, well-established aquarium with minimal disturbances.

🌿 Why Choose the Clown Killifish?

The Clown Killifish is a colorful, peaceful, and active top-dweller that brings charm and visual interest to any nano or planted tank. With their vibrant striped bodies, ease of care, and schooling behavior, they are a perfect addition for aquarists seeking beauty in a small package.

Bring home the charm of West Africa—add Clown Killifish to your aquarium today!