Can Ghost Shrimp and Norman's Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Ghost Shrimp and Norman's Lampeye Killifish are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 38 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Ghost Shrimp

Palaemonetes paludosus

Norman's Lampeye Killifish

Poropanchax normani

🐠Family Group
Ghost Shrimp
Invertebrates
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Ghost Shrimp
Peaceful (1/10)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
18–28°C
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
6.5–8
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
5–15
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
Low
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 38 L
Ghost Shrimp
19 L
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Ghost Shrimp
Bottom
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Ghost Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Ghost Shrimp 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.

Ghost Shrimp
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Ghost Shrimp and Norman's Lampeye Killifish are peaceful species with an aggression score of 1/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

In terms of spatial distribution, Ghost Shrimp prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Norman's Lampeye Killifish occupies the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

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

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 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Ghost Shrimp and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 38 litres with a minimum length of 45 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Floating. 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Ghost Shrimp and Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Show 22 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Ghost Shrimp and Norman's Lampeye Killifish live together?

Yes. Ghost Shrimp and Norman's Lampeye Killifish are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Ghost Shrimp and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

A minimum of 38 litres (tank length at least 45 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 Ghost Shrimp 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 Ghost Shrimp or Norman's Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

Ghost Shrimp is peaceful (1/10) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Ghost Shrimp and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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