Species profile
Striped Panchax
Aplocheilus lineatus
Semi aggressive
Easy care
100 L minimum aquarium
8–12 cm adult size
Top
Minimum group: 2
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
'Striped' is a colour/pattern descriptor, not a formal taxonomic variety. Husbandry is that of Aplocheilus lineatus.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.8
GH
3–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 2
Tank zone
Top
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
0.7
Surface-oriented predatory killifish. Usually manageable with robust fish too large to swallow, but small fish and shrimp are prey and a tight lid is mandatory.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
4–6 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
100 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Aplocheilus lineatus
Alternative names
Striped Panchax, Aplocheilus lineatus var. striped, Striped Aplocheilus
Native range
Striped aquarium form of Aplocheilus lineatus; the parent species occurs across peninsular India and Sri Lanka.
Natural habitat
Use parent-species husbandry: vegetated ponds, streams, canals and rice-field margins with calm surface areas and floating cover.
Diet & feeding
Surface predator taking insects, larvae and small aquatic animals; accepts floating prepared foods plus frozen/live invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are more strongly coloured with more extended fins; females are plainer and fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Non-annual plant spawner. Adhesive eggs are deposited in fine vegetation or spawning mops and can be collected for separate incubation.