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The Striped Panchax, scientifically known as Aplocheilus lineatus, is a captivating and relatively hardy killifish that originates from the freshwaters of India and Sri Lanka. These surface-dwelling beauties are highly prized for their striking appearance, featuring an elongated, torpedo-shaped body adorned with prominent horizontal stripes that run from head to tail. Males typically exhibit more vibrant coloration, often displaying iridescent blue, green, or golden hues, accented by red or orange margins on their fins, especially when mature and during breeding. Females are generally more subdued in color, with a silvery or golden base. They can reach an adult size of 3-4 inches (7-10 cm), making them a moderately sized fish suitable for many home aquariums. Temperament-wise, Striped Panchax are generally peaceful and can be housed in a community tank with other similarly sized, non-aggressive species. However, they are opportunistic feeders and may prey on very small fry or tiny invertebrates. They can be kept singly, in pairs, or in small groups, though a single male-female pair is often recommended to prevent potential squabbles between males in smaller enclosures. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons (75 liters) is suitable for a pair, with larger tanks preferred for groups to allow ample swimming space and territorial establishment. These fish thrive in well-planted aquariums that mimic their natural habitat, offering plenty of surface cover provided by floating plants like Salvinia or Water Lettuce. This cover provides security and helps them feel at ease. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water parameters (pH 6.0-7.5) with soft to medium hardness and a temperature range of 72-79°F (22-26°C). As surface dwellers, Striped Panchax are known jumpers, making a tight-fitting lid an absolute necessity to prevent them from leaping out of the tank. Their diet should be varied, consisting of high-quality flakes and pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and small insects. With proper care, these beautiful and active killifish can live for 3-5 years, providing a dynamic and colorful display to any aquascape.

Top-dwelling predator; will eat small fish. Tank must be covered.