Epiplatys annulatus

The Clown Killifish originates from the slow-moving, shallow streams, swamps, and wetlands of West Africa. These natural habitats are often shaded by dense vegetation, with soft, slightly acidic water, and a substrate covered in leaf litter. To successfully maintain this species, it is best to replicate these conditions in the home aquarium. A setup with low water flow is crucial, as they are not adapted to strong currents. The inclusion of dense aquatic vegetation, particularly floating plants, will provide them with the cover they need to feel secure, given their preference for dwelling at the very top of the water column. A tight-fitting lid is non-negotiable, as these fish are accomplished jumpers and will exploit any available gap.

In terms of behavior, they are a shoaling species and must be kept in a group. A solitary individual will be shy, stressed, and fail to thrive. When kept in appropriate numbers, they display fascinating social dynamics and more confident behavior. They are moderately active, often seen hovering near the surface, waiting for food. Tank mates should be selected carefully; they are ideal for a community of other very small, peaceful fish. Boisterous, large, or fast-swimming fish will cause them significant stress and will likely outcompete them for food.

As surface-feeding carnivores, their diet should be varied and rich in protein. They eagerly accept small live foods, which can also trigger spawning behavior. Frozen and freeze-dried foods are also excellent choices, supplemented with high-quality micro-pellets or crushed flakes that float. Due to a slow metabolism, it is important to feed in small quantities once daily and avoid overfeeding. Maintaining pristine water quality is important for their long-term health, and although they produce little waste, regular maintenance and stable water parameters are key. They are known to graze on biofilm found on plant leaves and other surfaces, supplementing their diet.

Epiplatys annulatus is a small freshwater fish belonging to the family Nothobranchiidae, an order known for its often short-lived, surface-oriented species. Native to the coastal lowland swamps and streams of West Africa, it occupies a specific ecological niche as a surface-dwelling micropredator. Its morphology is well-suited to this lifestyle, featuring a fusiform body shape that allows for quick bursts of speed to capture prey. Anatomically, its upturned mouth is a clear adaptation for feeding on terrestrial insects that have fallen onto the water's surface, as well as aquatic insect larvae and microcrustaceans.

Physiologically, E. annulatus exhibits a low metabolic rate and correspondingly low oxygen consumption. This is a common adaptation for fish inhabiting warm, slow-moving, and potentially low-oxygen environments. In a closed aquatic system, this translates to a low bioload factor, meaning a group of these fish places a relatively small demand on the biological filtration. The species is also noted as a biofilm consumer, indicating a degree of dietary flexibility where it grazes on microbial mats that form on submerged surfaces, a behavior that supplements its primarily carnivorous diet.

From a conservation standpoint, Epiplatys annulatus is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. This status suggests that, at present, wild populations are considered stable and not facing immediate, significant threats across their range. The species exists within a euryhaline tolerance from pure freshwater to very low-end brackish conditions, but it is overwhelmingly found in freshwater habitats. Its classification is taxonomically validated, with the genus Epiplatys comprising numerous small, surface-dwelling African species.

Breeding Clown Killifish is considered moderately difficult but is a very achievable goal for the dedicated aquarist. Success requires a well-conditioned group and a properly arranged environment. To begin, it's important to distinguish between the sexes. Males typically exhibit more vibrant pigmentation and a more slender body profile compared to the females. Females, especially when ready to spawn, will appear noticeably fuller-bodied and have more subdued coloration. A recommended ratio for a breeding group is one male to two or three females, which helps disperse any spawning-related pressure on a single female.

A separate, dedicated breeding aquarium is highly recommended. This tank should have gentle filtration and stable water parameters that mimic their natural soft, slightly acidic habitat. These fish are egg depositors, not livebearers, and they will place their adhesive eggs on suitable surfaces. The ideal spawning media are clumps of fine-leaved aquatic plants, such as mosses, or artificial spawning mops. Conditioning the adult fish with a diet rich in live and frozen foods for a few weeks is crucial to trigger spawning readiness.

Once conditioned, the fish will begin to lay a small number of eggs daily over a period of several days to weeks. To prevent the adults from eating the eggs, the spawning media containing the eggs should be moved to a separate rearing tank with identical water. The eggs will typically hatch after an incubation period of about nine to twelve days, depending on the water temperature. The newly hatched fry are extremely small and will require microscopic foods for the first week of life, such as infusoria or other liquid fry food. As they grow, they can be transitioned to newly hatched brine shrimp and other small live foods. Maintaining impeccable water quality in the rearing tank is critical to ensure a high survival rate for the vulnerable fry.