Clown Killifish
Epiplatys annulatus
Description
The Clown Killifish is a small, vibrant species known for its striking color patterns. The male Clown Killifish is particularly colorful, with a combination of bright orange, yellow, and blue on its body, accompanied by distinctive vertical black stripes. The females are less colorful, usually having a more muted appearance but still possessing a slight orange tinge. Their small size, usually only reaching around 2.5 cm (1 inch), makes them ideal for smaller aquariums or nano tanks. These fish are peaceful, active swimmers that tend to stay in the upper regions of the aquarium. Clown Killifish are also known for their jumping ability, so it is essential to keep them in a well-covered tank.
Habitat Origin
Native to West Africa, specifically found in slow-moving waters, including marshes, ponds, and streams in countries like Cameroon, Nigeria, and Congo. These fish thrive in warm, slightly acidic water with plenty of hiding places, often in areas with dense vegetation.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: At least 6 individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel more secure in groups.
Favorite Food
Clown Killifish are carnivores and will eat live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and small worms. They can also accept high-quality flake food or pellets designed for small fish. A varied diet, including both protein and plant matter, will help maintain their vibrant coloration.
Behavior:
Clown Killifish are active and peaceful fish, usually found swimming in the upper sections of the aquarium. They are small and delicate, making them ideal for community tanks with other peaceful species. However, due to their small size, they may be vulnerable to larger, more aggressive fish. Clown Killifish are social and should be kept in schools to help them feel secure and display their natural behavior. They are quick swimmers and can jump, so it is essential to keep their tank well-covered to prevent escape.
Special Care:
Clown Killifish prefer a tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as plants, driftwood, and rocks. They are sensitive to water quality, so regular water changes and good filtration are essential. Their jumping nature means that a tightly fitted tank lid is crucial to keep them from escaping. These fish prefer slightly acidic to neutral water and do not tolerate extreme temperature fluctuations or poor water conditions.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Yes, Clown Killifish are compatible with other small, peaceful species such as other killifish, tetras, rasboras, and small catfish. They should not be kept with larger or aggressive fish that may view them as prey. It’s also important not to house them with fin-nipping species, as this may stress them out. Due to their peaceful nature, they are best kept in peaceful community tanks with species of similar size and temperament.
Adult
Breeding Tank Setup
Using a separate breeding tank is highly recommended for Clown Killifish to protect the eggs from being consumed and to maintain controlled water parameters. A 5-gallon tank (19 liters) is suitable for a small breeding group, while 10 gallons (38 liters) allows for more space and stability when housing multiple pairs. Maintain water parameters at pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 24–28°C (75–82°F), and hardness 2–10 dGH. Employ a sponge filter or gentle internal filter to maintain water quality without disturbing the calm surface preferred by this species. Use fine gravel or sand as substrate and add Java moss, Anubias, or Hornwort, along with floating plants for additional egg protection and shade.
Conditioning Breeders
To stimulate breeding, condition the Clown Killifish with a high-quality, varied diet including micro pellets, live or frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms, supplemented with vegetable matter like chopped spinach or peas. Feed smaller portions multiple times a day to maintain nutritional balance. Carry out weekly 20–30% water changes, and to encourage spawning, simulate rainy-season conditions by performing a larger water change (50%) while slightly raising the water temperature to 28°C.
Spawning Behavior
Spawning typically takes place in the morning or following a significant water change. The male courts the female by displaying vivid colors and fluttering around her. The female then scatters 20–50 small adhesive eggs among plants or on the substrate, which the male fertilizes immediately. Since Clown Killifish may consume their own eggs, it is important to remove the parents immediately after spawning to ensure higher survival rates. Egg-laying may span several hours and eggs can be scattered throughout the tank.
Hatching & Fry Rearing
Clown Killifish eggs generally hatch within 3–5 days, depending on temperature. Newly hatched fry will feed on their yolk sacs initially, then transition to infusoria or liquid fry food. As they grow, offer baby brine shrimp, microworms, or finely crushed flakes. Maintain excellent water quality with daily or alternate-day water changes (10–20%), keeping the temperature steady at 24–28°C. Avoid overfeeding, as uneaten food rapidly degrades water quality and can lead to fry mortality.
Additional Notes
Clown Killifish reach breeding maturity at 6–8 months of age. Males are smaller, slender, and more vibrantly colored, with distinct markings on their bodies and fins, while females are larger, rounder, and display more subdued coloration. Avoid sudden shifts in temperature, pH, or hardness, and ensure consistent water quality to reduce stress. Use only non-aggressive tank mates or isolate breeders to ensure a calm environment conducive to spawning.