A small, peaceful, schooling killifish native to Central and Western Africa. Named for the bright, iridescent blue/white crescent on the upper part of their eyes, which glows under aquarium lighting. Unlike many killifish, they are not annual and thrive in community setups. They are highly active swimmers and known jumpers, so a tight-fitting lid is required.
Norman's Lampeye Killifish At a Glance
Norman's Lampeye Killifish Tank Requirements
Will Norman's Lampeye Killifish fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Norman's Lampeye Killifish needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Norman's Lampeye Killifish against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Norman's Lampeye Killifish Water Parameters
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Norman's Lampeye Killifish Temperament & Compatibility
Norman's Lampeye Killifish Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard form available in the trade. Males and females have identical husbandry needs and are kept together in mixed schools. They establish a hierarchy without significant aggression.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Schooling, Unsexed
Norman's Lampeye Killifish Care Guide Summary
The Norman's Lampeye Killifish, scientifically known as Poropanchax normani, belongs to the Killifish family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 4 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the surface and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Norman's Lampeye Killifish requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–7.5 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
The Norman's Lampeye Killifish is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. The Norman's Lampeye Killifish is typically available in one standard form.
Norman's Lampeye Killifish Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Norman's Lampeye Killifish, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the surface and mid-level zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise adequate surface area with floating cover to make them feel secure near the waterline and open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement. Useful additions include dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress and floating plants to diffuse overhead light and create shaded areas. Keepers should note that a tight-fitting lid is essential, as this species is a known jumper.
Norman's Lampeye Killifish Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Norman's Lampeye Killifish is a schooling species that feels most secure in a sizeable group, where natural shoaling behaviour reduces stress and brings out their best colours. When choosing tankmates, their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the surface and mid-level zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Norman's Lampeye Killifish Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Norman's Lampeye Killifish.
10 Gallon Standard
15 Gallon Standard
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
Show 22 more tank sizes
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Frequently Asked Questions About Norman's Lampeye Killifish
How big does Norman's Lampeye Killifish get?
Norman's Lampeye Killifish (Poropanchax normani) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 4 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm are recommended for Norman's Lampeye Killifish. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Norman's Lampeye Killifish need?
Norman's Lampeye Killifish thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Norman's Lampeye Killifish peaceful or aggressive?
Norman's Lampeye Killifish is classified as peaceful with an aggression score of 1 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
How many Norman's Lampeye Killifish should be kept together?
Norman's Lampeye Killifish is a schooling species and should be kept in groups of at least 6. Larger groups help distribute aggression and encourage natural schooling behaviour.
Does Norman's Lampeye Killifish have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Norman's Lampeye Killifish benefits from plants - densely covered and plants - floating in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Does Norman's Lampeye Killifish need a lid on the tank?
Yes. Norman's Lampeye Killifish is a known jumper, and a tight-fitting lid or cover is essential to prevent escape. Even a small gap can be enough for a determined fish to leap out.
Top Tank Mates for Norman's Lampeye Killifish
These fish are strong compatibility matches for Norman's Lampeye Killifish based on water preferences, temperament, adult size, and tank behavior.
Bandit Cory
Corydoras metae
Ideal Tank MatesAsher Cory
Corydoras tukano
Ideal Tank MatesPanda Garra
Garra flavatra
Ideal Tank MatesJulii Corydoras (False Julii)
Corydoras trilineatus
Ideal Tank MatesPeppered Corydoras
Corydoras paleatus
Ideal Tank MatesMalaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Melanoides tuberculata
Ideal Tank MatesPlants That Suit Norman's Lampeye Killifish
These plants pair well with Norman's Lampeye Killifish based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Amazon Sword
Echinodorus amazonicus
Anacharis
Egeria densa
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Baby Tears
Lindernia rotundifolia
Balansae
Cryptocoryne crispatula
Fish Similar to Norman's Lampeye Killifish
Gardner's Killifish
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Florida Flagfish
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