Fin's Fish Guide
The Singa panchax (Epiplatys singa) is a freshwater fish of the family Nothobranchiidae that grows up to 6 cm.
West and Central Africa, in the Congo basin; in slow-flowing and still fresh water.
Description
The Singa panchax is a small egg-laying killifish of the family Nothobranchiidae reaching about 6 cm. The slender, elongate body has a flattened head and an upturned mouth, a build typical of surface hunters; males are brownish with a golden sheen and narrow dark cross-bars and are more brightly coloured than females. The species lives in slow-flowing and still fresh water in the Congo basin of West and Central Africa, often among bankside vegetation. Just below the surface it lies in wait for insects and other small creatures falling onto the water. Like many related killifishes it is kept in the home aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Singa panchax?
The Singa panchax has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Small pike-like surface fish with a flattened head and an upturned mouth; males are more brightly coloured with narrow vertical bars.
Where does the Singa panchax live?
The Singa panchax lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West and Central Africa, in the Congo basin; in slow-flowing and still fresh water.
How big does the Singa panchax get?
The Singa panchax grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Singa panchax dangerous to humans?
No, the Singa panchax is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Singa panchax edible?
The Singa panchax is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Singa panchax?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Singa panchax is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Singa panchax?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Singa panchax is one of 12,519 species in the app.