Panchax Werner's 3.5cm

Panchax Werner's

For aquarists seeking a rare and uniquely patterned killifish, Werner's Killifish is a stunning species that deserves attention. This fish makes for an excellent nano centrepiece in planted or blackwater setups and is particularly well-suited to aquarists looking for something different from the more common killifish species. While relatively easy to care for, they can be sensitive to water parameter fluctuations, making them a better choice for aquarists with some experience in maintaining stable conditions. Unlike many killifish with short lifespans of 1-2 years, the Panchax Werner's Killifish can live up to four years with proper care.

This species features earthy yet contrasting colours, particularly in males, making them a visually striking addition to an aquarium. Their base colour is a soft golden-brown, overlaid with irregular red speckles and intricate black barring. Their lips are edged with black markings, giving them a defined look, while a subtle metallic blue sheen can be seen shimmering across their body. Their fins are semi-transparent, carrying small iridescent spots and hints of green-blue hues. Females display a similar pattern but with less intense colouring and a more subdued appearance. Both sexes become more vibrant with age, especially when kept in optimal water conditions. These fish thrive in soft, slightly acidic water with temperatures between 24-26°C.

Breeding is relatively straightforward as males and females are easily distinguishable. Males are larger, more colourful, and display elongated fins, while females have a rounder body shape. They are egg scatterers, with females depositing their eggs among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. In dedicated breeding setups, spawning mops can be removed and transferred to a separate tank for fry rearing.

Tank Recommendations for your Panchax Werner's

Werner's Killifish remain small at around 6 cm, meaning a minimum tank size of 40 litres is sufficient for a pair or small group. Since they are top-dwelling fish, the choice of substrate and hardscape is not critical, but they will thrive in a well-planted aquarium with floating vegetation. A tight-fitting lid is essential, as they are notorious jumpers. They originate from slow-moving waters, so a low-flow filtration system is recommended to prevent excessive current..

Suitable Tank Buddies

Due to their extremely peaceful behaviour, Werner's 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 Werner's Killifish as these are delicate. It would be ideal to just avoid any species which 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 on the Werner's Killifish.

Feeding your Panchax Werner's

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