Can Iridescent Shark and Norman's Lampeye Killifish Live Together?

🔴Not Recommended

Iridescent Shark and Norman's Lampeye Killifish are not recommended as tank mates due to piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates.. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.


At a Glance

Iridescent Shark

Pangasianodon hypophthalmus

Norman's Lampeye Killifish

Poropanchax normani

🐠Family Group
Iridescent Shark
Catfish
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
Temperament
Iridescent Shark
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Iridescent Shark
22–28°C
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Iridescent Shark
6.5–7.5
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Iridescent Shark
2–20
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Iridescent Shark
Freshwater Only
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Iridescent Shark
Moderate
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 2400 L
Iridescent Shark
2000 L
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Iridescent Shark
Middle
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Iridescent Shark
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator

Behaviour & Temperament

Iridescent Shark is a generally mild-mannered species (3/10), while Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Iridescent Shark may occasionally assert dominance over Norman's Lampeye Killifish.

Iridescent Shark 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.

There is a critical concern: the Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk) trait of the other — piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates..

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

Worth noting: Iridescent Shark 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 4–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Iridescent Shark and Norman's Lampeye Killifish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 2400 litres with a minimum length of 250 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

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: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

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

Find the right tank equipment

Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Iridescent Shark and Norman's Lampeye Killifish live together?

No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.

What size tank do Iridescent Shark and Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?

A minimum of 2400 litres (tank length at least 250 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 Iridescent Shark 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 Iridescent Shark or Norman's Lampeye Killifish aggressive?

Iridescent Shark is generally mild-mannered (3/10) and Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Iridescent Shark 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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