Annulatus (Epiplatys annulatus) — 1,5-2cm

Overview

The Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus), also known as the Banded Panchax or Rocket Killifish, is a tiny, brilliantly patterned surface-dwelling killi from West Africa. Native to freshwater habitats in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, this peaceful species thrives in calm, planted aquariums with gentle filtration. Available for sale UK-wide, the Clown Killifish is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a colorful, nano-sized fish with fascinating behavior and moderate care requirements.

Appearance and Coloration

Epiplatys annulatus displays a striking pattern of vertical blue-black bars on a cream to golden background, earning its common name "Clown Killifish." Males are more colorful than females, with extended finnage and vibrant blue, red, and yellow highlights. The caudal fin features a distinctive lyre shape with elongated outer rays. This tiny, surface-dwelling species has large, expressive eyes and a flattened head adapted for hunting at the water's surface.

Natural Habitat

The Clown Killifish inhabits shallow, slow-moving streams, swamps, and flooded forest areas in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. These habitats feature soft, acidic water stained by tannins, dense surface vegetation, and subdued lighting beneath forest canopy. The fish shelter among floating plants and submerged roots, hunting small insects, larvae, and zooplankton at the water's surface.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum 30-litre aquarium is suitable for a small group of Clown Killifish. Provide ample surface cover using floating plants such as Amazon Frogbit, Water Lettuce, or Salvinia. Dense planting below the surface with species like Java Fern, Anubias, or Cryptocoryne creates additional shelter and security. Gentle filtration maintains water quality without creating strong current, which stresses this shy, surface-dwelling species. A secure lid is essential, as killifish are excellent jumpers.

Water Parameters

Maintain soft, slightly acidic water with pH 5.5-7.0 and temperatures between 22-26°C. General hardness (GH) should be low, ideally 2-8 dGH. The Clown Killifish is sensitive to hard, alkaline water and performs best in mature, well-established aquariums with stable parameters. Use peat filtration, Indian almond leaves, or blackwater extracts to replicate natural conditions. Perform weekly water changes of 15-20% to control nitrate while maintaining stable chemistry.

Feeding and Diet

Epiplatys annulatus is a carnivore that thrives on small live and frozen foods. Offer daphnia, baby brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, micro-worms, and grindal worms as staples. While some individuals may accept quality micro-pellets or crushed flakes, live and frozen foods are essential for optimal condition, coloration, and breeding. Feed small portions 1-2 times daily, ensuring food is presented at the water's surface where the fish naturally hunt.

Behaviour and Personality

The Clown Killifish is a peaceful, shy surface dweller that spends most of its time hunting among floating plants or resting just below the surface. This species is most active during feeding times and exhibits fascinating hunting behavior, stalking and striking at small prey. Males may engage in mild displays or territorial behavior, but aggression is minimal and rarely results in injury. Keep in groups for best social behavior.

Tank Mates

Ideal tank mates include peaceful microfish of similar size, snails, and possibly peaceful shrimp (with caution, as shrimplets may be eaten). Avoid large fish, aggressive fish, fin-nippers, fast boisterous species, and predatory fish. The Clown Killifish is best suited to species-only tanks or peaceful nano community setups with similarly sized, gentle inhabitants.

Breeding

Epiplatys annulatus is an egg scatterer that spawns readily in well-maintained aquariums. Eggs are usually laid among fine plants, floating mops, or spawning media over several days. Adults may eat eggs and fry, so remove eggs to a separate rearing container or use a spawning mop system. Eggs hatch in 10-14 days, and fry are tiny, requiring infusoria or liquid fry food initially before graduating to baby brine shrimp and micro-worms as they grow.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is your trusted source for rare and specialty killifish, including the stunning Clown Killifish. Every fish is quarantined, health-checked, and acclimatized to UK water conditions before dispatch. We provide expert guidance on nano tank setup, water chemistry, and compatible stocking to help you create a thriving soft-water aquarium. With fast, reliable delivery across the UK and a passion for quality fishkeeping, Tropical Fish Co is your premier destination for unique and beautiful freshwater fish.