Can False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 4, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 110 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

False Glass Catfish

Kryptopterus macrocephalus

Norman's Lampeye Killifish

Poropanchax normani

🐠Family Group
False Glass Catfish
Catfish
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
False Glass Catfish
Peaceful (2/10)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
False Glass Catfish
22–28°C
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
False Glass Catfish
5–7
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
False Glass Catfish
1–8
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
False Glass Catfish
Freshwater Only
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
False Glass Catfish
Low
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 110 L
False Glass Catfish
110 L
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
False Glass Catfish
Middle
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
False Glass Catfish
Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry PredatorShrimp Eater
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

False Glass Catfish
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

False Glass Catfish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means False Glass Catfish may occasionally assert dominance over Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish both frequent the Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.

Worth noting: Norman's Lampeye Killifish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 4–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 90 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Why This Pairing Needs Extra Planning in Practice

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Show 10 more tank sizes

Diet & Feeding

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. False Glass Catfish is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 110 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

A minimum of 110 litres (tank length at least 90 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are False Glass Catfish or Norman's Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

False Glass Catfish is peaceful (2/10) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do False Glass Catfish and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 4, 2026
Last updated
May 4, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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