Build your tropical aquarium and check compatibility instantly.
Temperature
20 - 26°C
pH
6 - 7.2
Hardness
1 - 8 dGH
Max Size
4.0 cm
Min. School
6
Min. Tank
40 L
The Clown Killifish (Epiplatys annulatus) is a dazzling jewel of the freshwater aquarium, renowned for its vibrant colors and lively personality. Growing to a mere 1.5 inches (4 cm), these tiny, torpedo-shaped fish boast an exquisite pattern of alternating yellow-orange and black vertical bands along their bodies, culminating in a distinctive fan-shaped caudal fin adorned with blue, red, and yellow markings, often featuring extended filaments. They are primarily top-dwelling fish, gracefully patrolling the surface layer of the aquarium with an almost hummingbird-like darting motion. Despite their small size, Clown Killifish are surprisingly active and social, thriving best in groups of 6 or more, where their schooling behavior truly shines. Their peaceful temperament makes them ideal inhabitants for planted nano tanks and species-specific setups, coexisting well with other small, non-aggressive fish and invertebrates. They prefer aquariums with dense floating vegetation and subdued lighting, which mimics their natural habitat of slow-moving forest streams and pools in West Africa. A true charmer, the Clown Killifish adds a burst of kaleidoscopic color and dynamic movement, making it a highly rewarding species for dedicated aquarists.