Can Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 72 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Norman's Lampeye Killifish

Poropanchax normani

X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)

Pristella maxillaris

🐠Family Group
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Killifish
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Characins
Temperament
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Peaceful (1/10)
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
22–28°C
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
23–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
6.5–7.5
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
6–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
4–15
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
2–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Freshwater Only
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Moderate
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 72 L
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
38 L
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
60 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
TopMiddle
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella)
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerNano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Fry Predator

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) 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.

Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) 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.

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 23°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°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 Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 72 litres with a minimum length of 60 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: 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 Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) live together?

Yes. Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) need?

A minimum of 72 litres (tank length at least 60 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 Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) together?

Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 28°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Norman's Lampeye Killifish or X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) aggressive?

Norman's Lampeye Killifish is peaceful (1/10) and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Norman's Lampeye Killifish and X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) 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.


Related Comparisons

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Clown Killifish

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulClown Killifish: Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Rachov's Killifish (Annual)

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulRachov's Killifish (Annual): Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Amazon Puffer

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulAmazon Puffer: Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Black Neon Tetra

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulBlack Neon Tetra: Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Boeseman's Rainbowfish

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulBoeseman's Rainbowfish: Peaceful

Norman's Lampeye Killifish & Congo Tetra

·

🟡Possible with Caution
Norman's Lampeye Killifish: PeacefulCongo Tetra: Peaceful

X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) & Rummy-Nose Tetra

·

🟡Possible with Caution
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella): PeacefulRummy-Nose Tetra: Peaceful

X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) & Bleeding Heart Tetra

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella): PeacefulBleeding Heart Tetra: Peaceful

X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) & Diamond Tetra

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella): PeacefulDiamond Tetra: Peaceful

X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) & Emperor Tetra

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella): PeacefulEmperor Tetra: Peaceful

X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) & Glowlight Tetra

·

🟡Possible with Caution
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella): PeacefulGlowlight Tetra: Peaceful

X-Ray Tetra (Pristella) & Lemon Tetra

·

🟢Ideal Tank Mates
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella): PeacefulLemon Tetra: Peaceful