Epiplatys Chaperi - Wild Caught 4cm

Epiplatys Chaperi

For the killifish enthusiasts chasing a rare and stunning species to add to the collection, the Chaperi killi is a must-have species. This species truly is a great, simplistic nano centrepiece fish for a blackwater or planted aquarium and are uniquely coloured species in the killifish family. This is a pretty easy to care for fish but they can be sensitive to parameter swings so it would be better to have this species on the bucket list once there is a decent level of experience gained with aquarium keeping. Unlike most killifish species that have short lifespans of around 1 - 2 years, the Chaperi killifish actually lives for around 4 years

Chaperi killifish have stunning colours, especially in males, the earthy yet contrasting tones make for a very wild-looking species. The base colour is a light brown which is overlaid with bright red spots and jet black barring. This black is also present on the lips almost like lipstick which is contrasted with a metallic blue sheen across the body.
The fins also have small spots with green-blue hues as well. Females tend to have the same barring but tend to have more muted earthy colours. The thing to note with both males and females is that they do increase in colouration as they age. These killifish are tropical species that will thrive in a temperature range between 24 - 26 degrees and will prefer softer water with a PH of 6.0-7.0.

Breeding these fish is relatively easy as males and females can be easily distinguished, males tend to be larger with far more vibrant colours. These killifish are egg-scattering fish and breeders will usually make spawning mops which are placed into the tank to capture the eggs. Females will deposit eggs into these mops as they resemble a fine-leafed plant. The mop can then be removed and placed into a dedicated breeding tank from where the fry can be raised.

Tank Recommendations for your Epiplatys Chaperi

The Chaperi killifish only reaches around 6 cm and a pair can be kept in an aquarium of 40 litres. As these fish are almost exclusively top-dwelling fish, the choice of substrate or hardscape is not a major consideration. They will love a well-planted aquarium but the main must-have is a well-fitting lid since these fish are notorious jumpers. Chaperi killifish come from slow-moving waters in the wild and it is best to avoid high-flow aquariums for them.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Due to their extremely peaceful behaviour, Chaperi killifish are great to include in community aquariums with other similar-sized and tempered fish.

Usually Compatible

Khuli loach, pygmy corydoras, maculata rasboras, neon tetras, celestial pearl danios, and other nano species.

Sometimes Compatible

Larger community fish like angelfish can stress out the Chaperi killifish as these are delicate. It would be ideal to just avoid any species that would show even slight territorial behaviour or have the risk of being fin-nipping.

Rarely Compatible

Larger South American cichlids both aggressive and peaceful can easily outcompete or predate the Chaperi killifish.

Feeding your Epiplatys Chaperi

Chaperi killifish will take to aquarium foods very easily. They will take a wide range of floating pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Giving them a varied diet of some protein-rich micro pellets along with baby brine shrimp will ensure that they have optimal health.