Norman’s Lampeye Killifish Care Guide

The Norman’s Lampeye Killifish (Poropanchax normani) is a small, peaceful freshwater fish admired for the bright, iridescent blue “lamps” in its eyes that shimmer under aquarium lighting. This subtle yet beautiful species is perfect for nano and planted aquariums.

Origin
Native to West and Central Africa, Norman’s Lampeyes inhabit slow-moving rivers, streams, and swamps. They prefer shallow, vegetated waters where they can find shelter and hunt for small insects and plankton.

Appearance
These fish have slender, translucent bodies with a hint of golden or silvery sheen. The standout feature is their glowing, electric-blue eyes that catch and reflect light. Adults typically reach about 1.2 inches in length, making them ideal for smaller setups.

Behavior
Norman’s Lampeyes are peaceful schooling fish that thrive in groups of six or more. They are active mid-to-upper level swimmers, spending much of their time in open water while darting among plants for cover.

Tank Setup

* Minimum tank size: 10 gallons for a small school.
* Provide dense planting and floating vegetation for shade and security.
* Gentle filtration with low water flow mimics their natural habitat.
* A dark substrate and background can enhance their colors.

Water Parameters

* Temperature: 72–79°F
* pH: 6.0–7.5
* Soft to moderately hard water

Diet
Norman’s Lampeyes are micro-predators that do best on a varied diet of crushed flakes, high-quality micro pellets, and live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and cyclops.

Tank Mates
They mix well with other small, peaceful species such as ember tetras, chili rasboras, pygmy corydoras, and shrimp. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping fish.

Care Tips

* Keep them in schools for security and natural behavior.
* Cover the tank to prevent jumping.
* Maintain stable water conditions to keep them healthy and vibrant.

Conclusion
The Norman’s Lampeye Killifish is a small but striking addition to any peaceful community or nano aquarium. Its glowing eyes, active swimming, and gentle personality make it a favorite for aquarists who enjoy subtle yet captivating beauty.

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