Fin's Fish Guide
The Malabar killie (Aplocheilus lineatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Aplocheilidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The striped panchax is a killifish (Aplocheilidae) from India and Sri Lanka. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an elongate, streamlined body with a flattened back and an upturned mouth, adapted to life at the water surface; the golden variety is popular in the aquarium. It inhabits varied waters: high-altitude streams and reservoirs, rivers, wells, paddy fields, swamps and brackish water. As a surface hunter it springs on insects and small fishes. It is used for mosquito control. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Malabar killie?
The Malabar killie has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Flattened back and an upward-facing mouth for surface hunting; used against midge larvae.
Where does the Malabar killie live?
The Malabar killie lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. India and Sri Lanka; streams, rivers, rice fields and brackish water.
How big does the Malabar killie get?
The Malabar killie grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Malabar killie dangerous to humans?
No, the Malabar killie is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Malabar killie edible?
The Malabar killie is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aplocheilus
More from the family Aplocheilidae
Want the complete picture on the Malabar killie?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Malabar killie is one of 12,519 species in the app.