An ultra-small killifish with black-yellow stripes and distinctive rocket-shaped tail fin.
The clown killifish (Epiplatys annulatus), also known as the banded panchax, is a tiny surface-dwelling killifish native to small streams, ponds, and marshes of Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia in West Africa. At 3–4 cm, it features a pale yellow-green body with black vertical bands and a remarkable rocket-shaped tail fin with blue, red, and orange rays fanning outward — a color combination of exceptional beauty for such a small fish. It is ideally suited to small aquariums (20-cm cube and up) and prefers calm or still water; strong filtration flow should be avoided. Slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0–7.0) at 22–26°C is recommended. Floating plants provide security and serve as anchor points for bubble nests. Diet requires appropriately small foods: powder foods, frozen baby brine shrimp, and daphnia. Breeding is remarkably easy — eggs are deposited in floating plant roots or fine moss, and hatching fry, though tiny, can be raised on infusoria and powdered fry food. An excellent choice for nano setups and botanical aquariums.
Origin
streams and marshes of Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, West Africa
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
3-4cm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Frozen food, Pellets
Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0)
Maintain 22-26°C
Place floating plants on surface
Swims near surface, use lid to prevent jumping
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Clown Killifish is 22〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Clown Killifish is 2-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Clown Killifish typically reaches 3-4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Clown Killifish feeds on: Frozen food, Pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Clown Killifish varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Find listings for this species
Browse Tropical Fish ListingsAnnual Killifish Care Guide — Egg Management and Breeding Methods for Nothobranchius and Others
Care guide for annual killifish: characteristics of Nothobranchius and related species, diapause egg storage management, hatching techniques, and the full breeding cycle.
Killifish Egg Storage Guide — Diapause Management for Annual Species
How to store killifish eggs: peat moss incubation, diapause duration, humidity control, and hatching trigger techniques for annual species.
Anemone & Clownfish Symbiosis: Complete Keeping Guide
Anemone and clownfish keeping guide: compatible anemone species, introduction order, lighting and flow needs, and dealing with anemone wandering.
Clownfish Breeding Guide — From Pairing to Fry Rearing
Complete clownfish breeding guide: pairing, spawning signs, egg care, hatching timing, and fry feeding with rotifers and brine shrimp.