Overview
The Crossbanded Pikeling, scientifically known as Epiplatys dageti dageti and often referred to as the Redchin Panchax, is a fascinating and relatively hardy surface-dwelling killifish. Unlike annual killifish, this species can live for several years in the aquarium. They are highly valued for their unique predatory appearance and interesting surface behaviors, making them an excellent choice for community tanks with appropriately sized tank mates.
Distribution and Habitat
This species is native to the coastal plains of West Africa, specifically found in Liberia, Ivory Coast, and Ghana. They inhabit swamps, slow-moving streams, and the shallow margins of small rivers. These waters are typically heavily vegetated, shaded by overhanging jungle canopies, and rich in tannins from decaying plant matter.
Description of Crossbanded Pikeling
Body shape:
They possess an elongated, somewhat cylindrical, pike-like body with a distinctly flattened dorsal profile, perfectly adapted for a life spent cruising just beneath the water's surface.
Color:
The body has a silvery-blue to olive base coloration, marked prominently by five to six thick, vertical black crossbands. Males often display a vibrant red or orange coloration under their chin and throat.
Barbels:
This species does not possess any barbels.
Snout:
The snout is pointed and features a wide, upturned mouth designed for snatching insects from the water's surface.
Eyes:
They have relatively large, slightly reflective eyes positioned near the top of their head to help them spot prey above the waterline.
Fins:
The dorsal fin is set very far back on the body, aligning with the anal fin. The fins of males are often tinted with yellow or green and feature dark, dramatic edging.
The Tail:
The caudal fin (tail) is spatulate or paddle-shaped. In mature males, the central rays may extend slightly, giving the tail a more pointed or ragged, decorative appearance.
Temper
The Crossbanded Pikeling is generally peaceful towards fish of similar size. However, they are micro-predators by nature; any fry or fish small enough to fit into their surprisingly wide mouths may be viewed as a snack.
Sociality
They are best kept in small groups or harems, ideally consisting of one male to two or three females. Keeping multiple males in a smaller tank can lead to territorial sparring, though serious injuries are rare if enough space and cover are provided.
Activity
They are diurnal and relatively inactive swimmers compared to schooling tetras. They spend the vast majority of their time hovering motionless just below the water's surface, waiting to ambush prey, darting quickly only when food is spotted.
Keeping and Caring for Crossbanded Pikeling
Tank size:
A minimum tank size of 60 cm in length (approximately 15 to 20 gallons) is recommended for a small group, providing ample surface area for them to establish territories.
Water Parameters:
Temperature
They prefer cooler tropical temperatures ranging from 20-24°C (68-75°F).
pH
Slightly acidic to neutral water is ideal, with a pH range of 6.0-7.0.
Hardness
Soft to moderately hard water is preferred, typically between 4-12 dGH.
Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate
Ammonia and Nitrite must always be at 0 ppm. Nitrates should be kept as low as possible, ideally below 20 ppm, through regular water changes.
Lighting
Dim to moderate lighting is best. Bright lights can make them skittish, so floating plants are highly recommended to diffuse the light.
Water flow
Water movement should be kept to an absolute minimum. They originate from stagnant or very slow-moving waters and will struggle against strong filter currents.
Decorations and Plants
A dark substrate with plenty of driftwood, leaf litter, and dense vegetation mimics their natural habitat. Floating plants like Water Lettuce, Salvinia, or Frogbit are essential to make them feel secure. A tight-fitting lid is strictly required, as they are phenomenal jumpers.
Diet
In the wild, they feed primarily on terrestrial insects that fall onto the water. In the aquarium, they are unfussy and will accept high-quality flakes or micro-pellets. However, their diet should be heavily supplemented with live or frozen foods such as fruit flies (Drosophila), mosquito larvae, bloodworms, and Daphnia.
Some Feeding Tips
Because they are surface feeders, ensure that the food you provide floats for at least a short period. Avoid feeding sinking pellets exclusively, as they may ignore food once it drops to the substrate.
Breeding
Breeding the Crossbanded Pikeling is relatively easy. They are continuous plant spawners. Provide a dedicated breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and plenty of fine-leaved plants or synthetic spawning mops. Females will deposit a few eggs daily among the vegetation. It is best to remove the eggs or the parents to prevent predation. Eggs typically hatch in 10 to 14 days, and the fry can be fed infusoria or liquid fry food until they are large enough for baby brine shrimp.
Conclusion
The Crossbanded Pikeling is a rewarding and visually striking addition to a peaceful, planted aquarium. Their unique surface-dwelling behavior, distinct tiger-like banding, and ease of care make them an excellent introduction to the world of killifish for both novice and experienced aquarists alike.
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