Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus)

The Clown Killifish, also known as the Rocket Killifish or Banded Panchax, is one of the most eye-catching nano fish available. Native to the slow-moving streams and swamps of West Africa, these tiny surface-dwelling fish are peaceful, colourful, and perfect for heavily planted aquariums.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Epiplatys annulatus

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

• Adult Size: Up to 3 cm

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Temperament: Peaceful

• Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate

• Tank Level: Surface

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 40 litres for a small group

• Temperature: 23–26°C

• pH: 6.0–7.0

• Hardness: Soft to moderately soft water

• Flow: Low

• Lid: Essential – they are excellent jumpers!

A heavily planted aquarium with floating plants, driftwood, and gentle filtration helps these fish feel secure and display their best colours.

Diet

Clown Killifish are micropredators that naturally feed on tiny insects and zooplankton.

Offer a varied diet including:

• Baby brine shrimp

• Daphnia

• Microworms

• Frozen cyclops

• Fine micro pellets

• Quality nano flakes

Live and frozen foods help enhance colour and encourage breeding.

Tank Mates

Their small size means they should only be kept with peaceful nano fish such as:

• Chili Rasboras

• Ember Tetras

• Green Neon Tetras

• Pygmy Corydoras

• Otocinclus

• Kuhli Loaches
  

Avoid large, fast, or aggressive fish that may outcompete them for food.

Behaviour

Clown Killifish spend almost all of their time near the water's surface. Males display beautiful extended fins and may spar harmlessly with one another. Keeping them in groups of at least six, with more females than males, helps reduce aggression and encourages natural behaviour.

Breeding

These fish are prolific egg scatterers and regularly deposit adhesive eggs among fine-leaved plants, mosses, or spawning mops.

• Eggs hatch in approximately 12–16 days.

• Fry are extremely small and require infusoria or vinegar eels initially, followed by baby brine shrimp.

• Dense planting allows some fry to survive in the main aquarium.

Why We Love Them

Clown Killifish are one of the best choices for planted nano aquariums. Their striking black-and-gold bands, bright blue eyes, and unique rocket-shaped tails make them a true standout despite their tiny size. Peaceful, fascinating, and full of personality, they're an excellent addition to any calm community aquarium.