A flat-topped head and upturned mouth built for hunting at the surface, with a bright spot on the crown that gives it the nickname top-minnow. It hangs motionless just under the film, then strikes.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Skin conditions
- Parasites
Care at a glance
- ExerciseModerate
An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment3โ4 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Skin conditions
๐ Care guide
The Blue Panchax (Aplocheilus panchax) is widespread across South and Southeast Asia, from India and Bangladesh through Myanmar, Thailand and Indonesia, and reaches about 7 to 8 cm. Its flattened head, upturned mouth and dorsally set eyes are all adaptations for surface hunting, and a pale spot on the top of the head is thought to help members of a group keep track of one another from below. Keep a small group in a tank of 75 litres or more at 20-28C with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5, tolerating soft through moderately hard water, and some populations tolerate slightly brackish conditions. Surface cover is important: floating plants make it far bolder, and a tight lid is essential since it is a strong jumper. Feed floating pellets, flake and live or frozen insects, daphnia, bloodworm and brine shrimp. It is hardy and easy, but it is a predator of small fish and fry, so it should not be mixed with nano species or shrimplets.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Blue Panchax?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a Blue Panchax need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Blue Panchax need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Blue Panchax a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Blue Panchax live?
3โ4 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Blue Panchax?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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