Clown Killifish (Epiplatys Annulatus)

Tiny, bold, and absolutely captivating — the Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus) is one of the most charming and visually striking nano fish in the freshwater hobby. Despite its diminutive size, this West African killifish commands attention with its vivid black-and-cream banded body and a spectacular lyre-shaped tail in brilliant red, blue, and orange. A true jewel for the planted nano aquarium.

Overview

Appearance

The Clown Killifish has a cream to pale yellow body adorned with 4–5 bold black vertical bands — giving it a striking clown-like pattern. The real showstopper is the tail: males display a spectacular lyre-shaped caudal fin in vivid red, blue, and orange that fans out like a tiny firework. Females are more subdued with a rounded tail, but the banded pattern remains attractive. A group of these fish hovering near the surface is a truly magical sight.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 72 – 80°F (22 – 27°C)
• pH: 5.5 – 7.0 (soft, slightly acidic water preferred)
• General Hardness (GH): 1 – 8 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 5 gallons for a small group; 10+ gallons ideal
• Lighting: Low to moderate
• Substrate: Dark substrate with leaf litter for a natural blackwater feel
• Plants & Decor: Floating plants are essential — Clown Killifish are surface dwellers and love to hide among floating vegetation; Java moss and fine-leaved plants for spawning
• Important: Keep the tank covered — they are excellent jumpers

Diet & Feeding

Clown Killifish are surface feeders and micro-predators:

• Staple: High-quality micro pellets or nano fish flakes that float
• Treats: Baby brine shrimp, micro worms, daphnia, and small fruit flies
• Avoid: Sinking foods — they rarely feed below the surface

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

Peaceful and well-suited to nano community tanks. Ideal tank mates include:

• Small nano fish (Chili Rasboras, Ember Tetras, Celestial Pearl Danios)
• Dwarf shrimp (Neocaridina) — safe with adults
• Small snails
• Pygmy Corydoras (bottom dwellers that won’t compete for surface space)

Avoid any fish large enough to eat them or boisterous species that may stress them.

Breeding

Clown Killifish are plant spawners — they deposit eggs among floating plants or fine-leaved vegetation near the surface. Eggs hatch in 10–14 days. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or commercial liquid fry food initially, graduating to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

The Clown Killifish is a nano aquarium treasure — bold in pattern, spectacular in colour, and endlessly fascinating to observe. Add a group to your planted nano tank and enjoy one of the hobby's most uniquely beautiful small fish.