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Overview: The Epiplatys annulatus, commonly known as the Rocket Killifish, is a small and striking freshwater fish known for its torpedo-like shape and vivid coloration. This species is highly prized by aquarists for its unique appearance and relatively easy care requirements, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.
Appearance: Rocket Killifish are small, typically reaching only 3-4 cm in length. They are easily identified by their elongated, torpedo-shaped bodies, which are adorned with alternating bands of black and yellow. Males often display more intense colors, especially during breeding, while females are slightly larger and have more subdued tones. The vibrant blue eyes of this species add to its overall appeal, making it a standout in any aquarium.
Behavior: Rocket Killifish are peaceful and generally shy fish that prefer to stay near the surface of the water. They are best kept in small groups of 6-8 individuals, which helps reduce stress and encourages natural behavior. These fish are excellent jumpers, so a tightly fitting aquarium lid is essential to prevent escapes. Their calm demeanor makes them suitable for a quiet, well-planted tank where they can explore and display their natural behaviors.
Habitat & Care: Native to slow-moving streams and ponds in West Africa, the Rocket Killifish thrives in aquariums that replicate its natural environment. A tank with soft, acidic water, gentle filtration, and plenty of floating plants is ideal. They prefer a temperature range of 22-26°C (72-79°F) and a pH of 5.5-7.0. Dim lighting and a dark substrate will help to enhance their colors and make them feel more secure.
Diet: In the wild, Rocket Killifish feeds on small insects and larvae. In captivity, they will accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flake or micro pellet food, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and mosquito larvae. Providing a varied diet will help maintain their health and vibrant colors.
Compatibility: Due to their small size and peaceful nature, Rocket Killifish are best kept with other small, non-aggressive species. Ideal tank mates include other small killifish, small rasboras, and tetras. Avoid housing them with larger or more aggressive fish, as they may be outcompeted for food or become stressed. A species-only tank or a dedicated nano aquarium is also a great option to showcase their beauty.
Breeding: Breeding Rocket Killifish is relatively straightforward in a well-maintained aquarium. They are egg depositors, and breeding usually occurs in densely planted areas or on fine-leaved plants like Java moss. After spawning, the eggs should be removed or the parents should be separated to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs will hatch in 10-14 days, and the fry can be fed with infusoria or freshly hatched brine shrimp.
Conclusion: The Epiplatys annulatus, with its striking appearance and peaceful nature, is an excellent addition to any well-planted aquarium. Their small size, ease of care, and compatibility with other small, peaceful species make them a perfect choice for nano tanks or as part of a larger, community setup.
