Clown Killifish

The Clown Killifish, also known as the Banded Panchax, is a tiny, colorful killifish perfect for nano aquariums. Males display striking vertical bands of blue, yellow, and red on their bodies and tails. Native to West Africa, these small fish stay under 2 inches and are peaceful community residents. They are egg-layers that prefer soft, acidic water and should be kept in pairs or small groups. Their brilliant colors and small size make them ideal for carefully scaped nano tanks with other micro fish.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Clown Killifish need well-planted nano tanks with soft water.

Essential Setup:

• 10+ gallons minimum
• Dense planting essential
• Driftwood and leaf litter
• Floating plants
• Gentle sponge filtration
• Temperature 72-78°F
• Soft, acidic water

Water Quality

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25.5°C)
• pH: 5.5-7.0 (soft, slightly acidic)
• Water Hardness: Soft (1-8 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <10 ppm

Feeding

Small-mouthed requiring small foods:

• Live foods: small insects, worms (preferred)
• Frozen cyclops
• Micro pellets
• Crushed flakes

Coloration

• Males: Brilliant bands of blue, yellow, red
• Females: Duller, brownish
• Tail pattern: Vertical stripes like clown
• Small size: Under 2 inches

Behavior & Compatibility

Peaceful nano fish:

• Peaceful: Perfect for small tanks
• Shy: Need plant cover
• Jumpers: Secure lid required
• Top dwellers: Stay near surface

Good Tank Mates:

• Chili rasboras
• Ember tetras
• Small shrimp
• Other micro fish

Breeding

Can be bred in aquariums:

• Egg layers: Eggs in plants
• Spawning: Daily when conditioned
• Fry care: Separate or dense planting
• Fry food: Infusoria, vinegar eels

Tips for Success

• Soft, acidic water preferred
• Dense planting essential
• Feed small live foods
• Secure lid (jumpers)
• Perfect for nano tanks
• Peaceful community member