Norman’s Lampeye Killifish: Species Profile

Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Poropanchax normani
• Family: Poeciliidae
• Origin: West Africa
• Social Behavior: Peaceful, schooling fish
• Tank Level: Upper regions
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
• Diet: Carnivore
• Breeding Method: Egg layer
• Care Level: Beginner-friendly
• Preferred pH Range: 6.0 to 7.5
• Water Hardness: 5 to 20 dGH
• Temperature Range: 72 to 79°F (22 to 26°C)

Origin and Distribution

Norman’s Lampeye Killifish (Poropanchax normani) is native to West Africa, inhabiting shallow, slow-moving waters such as rivers, brooks, swamps, pools, ditches, and streams. They are often found in heavily vegetated areas, congregating in large groups.

Colors and Markings

These small fish are characterized by their iridescent blue-green scales and a distinctive horizontal crescent at the top of their eyes that appears to “glow” under aquarium lighting. Their bodies are slender, with males typically displaying more vibrant coloration and longer, more pointed fins compared to females.

Tankmates

Due to their peaceful nature, Norman’s Lampeye Killifish are excellent additions to community aquariums. Compatible tankmates include:

• Small, peaceful species such as tetras, danios, and rasboras
• Corydoras catfish
• Dwarf gouramis
• Small, peaceful invertebrates like shrimp

It’s advisable to avoid housing them with larger, aggressive species that may exhibit territorial behavior or view them as prey.

Care

Norman’s Lampeye Killifish are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. Key care considerations include:

• Tank Setup: Provide a well-planted aquarium with open areas for swimming. Incorporate floating plants to diffuse light and offer cover, mimicking their natural habitat. A dark substrate can enhance their coloration.
• Water Parameters: Maintain stable water conditions within the preferred ranges. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential to keep ammonia and nitrate levels low.
• Group Size: Keep them in groups of at least six to promote natural schooling behavior and reduce stress.

Diet and Feeding

As carnivores, Norman’s Lampeye Killifish thrive on a varied diet:

• Staple Foods: High-quality flake or micro-pellet foods formulated for carnivorous fish.
• Supplements: Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and cyclops.
• Feeding Frequency: Offer small amounts multiple times a day, ensuring they consume all the food within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Gender Differences

Males are generally more colorful and have longer, more pointed fins compared to females, who are slightly larger with shorter, rounder fins.

Breeding

Breeding Norman’s Lampeye Killifish in captivity is achievable with proper conditions:

• Breeding Tank: Set up a separate tank with water from the main aquarium, equipped with an air-driven sponge filter and a small heater to maintain a stable temperature. Add several large clumps of Java Moss or spawning mops to offer surfaces for egg deposition.
• Spawning: Introduce a small group of well-conditioned fish, ideally one male and two to three females. The female will deposit adhesive eggs on the provided surfaces, and the male will fertilize them.
• Post-Spawning: Incubation of the eggs typically takes 12 to 14 days, depending on the water temperature. After hatching, feed the fry infusoria and finely powdered fry foods, progressing to baby brine shrimp at around two weeks old.

Further Research

For more detailed information on Norman’s Lampeye Killifish care, breeding techniques, and tank setups, consider exploring specialized aquarium literature or consulting with experienced aquarists.

FAQ

How long do Norman’s Lampeye Killifish live? With proper care, they can live between 2 to 3 years.

Can Norman’s Lampeye Killifish be kept with shrimp? Yes, they are generally safe to keep with small, peaceful shrimp species.

Do Norman’s Lampeye Killifish require a heater? Maintaining a stable temperature within their preferred range is essential for their health, so a heater may be necessary depending on ambient conditions.