Fin's Fish Guide
The Many-banded panchax (Epiplatys multifasciatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Nothobranchiidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Fresh water of Central Africa, in slow-moving, densely vegetated water of forest streams, swamps and pools.
Description
The many-banded panchax is a slender, colourful killifish of the family Nothobranchiidae (African killifishes) reaching about 6 cm. The body has a flat back and an upturned mouth, a build suited to hunting just below the water surface; breeding males bear fine dark cross-bars and red spots. The species comes from Central Africa and lives in slow, densely vegetated water of forest streams, swamps and pools. It hunts insects and small invertebrates that fall on the water. Unlike many related killifishes it is not a true 'annual' fish: it spawns over an extended period and lays sticky eggs among fine plants. For its size and colours it is popular in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Many-banded panchax?
The Many-banded panchax has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Slender, colourful small killifish with a flat back, an upturned mouth and in the male fine vertical bars; a surface hunter.
Where does the Many-banded panchax live?
The Many-banded panchax lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of Central Africa, in slow-moving, densely vegetated water of forest streams, swamps and pools.
How big does the Many-banded panchax get?
The Many-banded panchax grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Many-banded panchax dangerous to humans?
No, the Many-banded panchax is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Many-banded panchax edible?
The Many-banded panchax is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Epiplatys
More from the family Nothobranchiidae
Want the complete picture on the Many-banded panchax?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Many-banded panchax is one of 12,519 species in the app.