Normans Lampeye Killifish - Poropanchax normani : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Norman's Lampeye Killifish (Poropanchax normani) are a fascinating and peaceful species, perfect for the nano or planted aquariums. These hardy Killifish are ideal for beginners and experts alike, thanks to their adaptability and ease of care. Swimming mainly at the top of the water column, the Norman's Lampeye Killifish is not afraid to jump, so a tight-fitting lid or lowered water level is essential.
These Killifish won't bother plants and will appreciate the cover of floating plants. Some hobbyists prefer to keep them in a dedicated species-only setup. In contrast, others enjoy keeping them alongside other tiny peaceful species such as Ember Tetras, African Jellybean Tetras, Pygmy Corydoras, Boraras species, Pencilfish, and small Anabantoids. However, they are unsuitable for a general community tank, as larger fish can easily threaten and prey upon them. While most Killifish are kept in pairs, the Norman's Lampeye Killifish thrives in groups, showing its best colouration in good-sized groups of at least ten individuals. These Killifish are safe with adult Dwarf Shrimp but may eat some shrimplets like most fish.
Creating a suitable habitat for Norman Lampeye Killifish necessitates the maintenance of a biologically mature aquarium with an unwavering dedication to water quality. Lampeye Killifish are known for their delicate nature, demanding a stable environment marked by pristine water conditions. To accommodate these diminutive fish effectively, it is essential to provide ample coverage in the form of driftwood and flourishing aquatic vegetation. Additionally, water circulation should be carefully regulated to ensure a gentle flow.
Enhancing the visual appeal of the aquarium while promoting the vibrant blue hues present in the upper irises of these fish can be achieved through the selection of dark substrate and decor. It's worth noting that this distinct blue colouration remains visible even in fry as young as a few days old. Despite their modest size, these active fish thrive in a spacious tank, particularly during their breeding activities. While a somewhat subdued lighting setup is preferable, brighter illumination can be employed effectively if the habitat includes an abundance of floating plants to provide surface cover.
Norman's Lampeye Killifish have elongated and slender bodies, with round scales and a dorsal fin located towards the back half of their body. They have a flattened head on top, with no barbels, and their mouth is at the tip. Their creamy bodies have a pearlescent greenish-yellowish-blue tint, depending on the lighting. These Killifish get their name from the horizontal crescent on top of their eye, which seems to glow a blueish colour under aquarium lighting.
Normans Lampeye Killifish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
In order to distinguish between male and female Norman's Lampeye Killifish, one must pay close attention to their physical characteristics. Generally, males tend to have longer and more pointed fins while also being slightly more colourful and growing larger than their female counterparts. On the other hand, females tend to be duller in colouration and have shorter and more rounded fins. Despite the difficulty in telling them apart, careful observation can reveal the sex of these fascinating fish.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Poropanchax normani |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1928 |
| Other Names | Lampeye Killifish, Sobat Lampeye, African Lampeye |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cyprinodontiformes |
| Family | Poeciliidae |
| Genus | Poropanchax |
| Origins | Chad , Cameroon , Sudan , Nigeria , Côte d'Ivoire , Gambia , Ghana , Senegal , Sierra Leone , Togo |
| Max Size | 4 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 8+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 3 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| ℉ | 72 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
Norman's Lampeye Killifish is an attractive and unique species that is endemic to several African countries, including central Sudan, Chad, Cameroon, and Nigeria. These fish inhabit the shallow, heavily vegetated margins of small rivers, brooks, swamps, pools, ditches, and streams, where they congregate in their thousands, creating a stunning natural spectacle. In their natural habitat, the Norman's Lampeye Killifish are well-adapted to life among dense vegetation, and their body shape and colouring help them blend in perfectly. Their iridescent scales and striking vertical bars make for an impressive sight as they swim through the underwater jungle.
Breeding
Norman's Lampeye Killifish are relatively easy to breed, with the potential for small quantities of fry appearing in a densely planted aquarium. However, a separate breeding tank must be set up for those interested in raising a greater yield. To provide a suitable environment for successful breeding, the breeding tank should be filled with water from the main aquarium and equipped with an air-driven sponge filter and a small heater to maintain a stable water temperature. In addition, several large clumps of Java Moss or spawning mops can be added to offer a surface for the fish to deposit their adhesive eggs.
To facilitate spawning, a small group of fish that have been well-conditioned on live and frozen foods, ideally with one male and two to three females, should be introduced to the breeding tank. Incubation of their relatively large eggs typically takes 12 to 14 days, depending on the water temperature. After hatching, the young can be fed infusoria and finely powdered fry foods, progressing to baby brine shrimp at around two weeks old.
While some breeders prefer to move the adults back to the main aquarium after spawning, others leave them in the breeding tank, as the adults seldom predate their eggs or fry. However, moving larger fry to the main aquarium is essential once they are large enough to avoid predation from older fish. In addition, maintaining excellent water quality in the breeding tank and carrying out regular partial water changes is crucial to prevent the build-up of nitrogenous wastes. It is worth noting that Norman's Lampeye Killifish have a relatively slow growth rate and will reach sexual maturity at around six months of age.
Diet & Feeding
Norman's Lampeye Killifish are naturally inclined to feed on a diet consisting primarily of insect larvae, small aquatic insects, and small invertebrates in their native habitat. However, to ensure their optimal health in captivity, it is essential to provide a diverse diet. While they may sporadically accept dried foods such as flakes, granules, and pellets, they will thrive on a diet comprising smaller-sized fresh or frozen offerings like Cyclops, baby brine shrimp, bloodworm, or daphnia. Providing a varied diet not only contributes to their overall well-being but also augments their vibrant coloration and activity levels.
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