The Golden Panchax (Aplocheilus lineatus 'Gold'), also known as the Golden Wonder Killifish, is a peaceful and adaptable surface-dwelling fish known for its shimmering golden body, subtle iridescence, and striking blue or red eyes. At 2.5–3cm, this juvenile form is perfect for small community aquariums or grow-out tanks and will eventually reach around 8–10cm when fully mature.

This species originates from South Asia, particularly India and Sri Lanka, where it inhabits slow-moving streams, rice paddies, and still ponds. With its combination of beauty, hardiness, and tolerance to varied water conditions, the Golden Panchax is a great choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Aplocheilus lineatus (Gold morph)

• Common Name: Golden Panchax, Golden Wonder Killifish

• Size: 2.5–3cm (juvenile; adults reach 8–10cm)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Temperament: Generally peaceful but may eat very small fish

• Difficulty Level: Easy

• Origin: India, Sri Lanka

• Best kept singly, in pairs, or with peaceful medium-sized tank mates

🌊 Water Conditions

Golden Panchax are hardy and can tolerate a broad range of conditions, though soft to moderately hard water is preferred.

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• Tank Size: 15–20 gallons minimum for juveniles; 30+ gallons for adults

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Moderate flow, good surface agitation

• Lighting: Moderate; their golden scales shine under natural or full-spectrum lighting

Add floating plants like Amazon frogbit or Salvinia to provide comfort and shade.

🐟 Tank Mates

Golden Panchax are mostly peaceful but can prey on very small fish or shrimp, especially as they grow.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Peaceful barbs (Cherry, Rosy)

• Corydoras catfish

• Rainbowfish

• Platies, Swordtails

• Larger rasboras

• Peaceful gouramis

• Loaches

Avoid:

• Tiny fish like neon tetras, small rasboras

• Dwarf shrimp

• Fin-nipping or aggressive species

They are surface dwellers, so choose tank mates that occupy mid- and bottom-levels for a balanced community.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Golden Panchax are carnivorous and prefer protein-rich foods.

Recommended diet:

• Live/frozen bloodworms, daphnia, or brine shrimp

• Insect larvae and small crustaceans

• High-quality floating pellets or flakes

• Freeze-dried tubifex or krill

Feed once or twice daily, offering food near the surface where they naturally feed. Their upturned mouth is adapted for topwater feeding.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Perform weekly water changes (25–30%)

• Ensure tank has a secure lid—they are expert jumpers

• Maintain stable temperature and pH

• Keep surface area clear for oxygen exchange

• Provide floating plants and visual cover to reduce stress

They are relatively low-maintenance and resilient, thriving with consistent care.

🌿 Why Choose the Golden Panchax?

The Golden Panchax is a perfect blend of beauty, adaptability, and low-maintenance care, making it ideal for a wide range of freshwater setups. Whether you're creating a peaceful community aquarium or showcasing a few standout surface fish, the Golden Wonder Killifish adds sparkle, personality, and movement to your tank.

Add a touch of gold to your aquarium—welcome the Golden Panchax today!