Yabassi Lampeye Killifish - Procatopus nototaenia Yabassi : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Yabassi Lampeye Killifish (Procatopus nototaenia Yabassi) exhibits a peaceful demeanour, notable resilience, and exquisite, understated colouration. Its modest size renders it an optimal choice for nano, planted, and community aquarium setups. While it is suitable for novice aquarists, successful breeding and rearing of the fry necessitate meticulous attention and considerations.
In order to thrive, the Yabassi Lampeye Killifish flourishes within a community of other friendly species that share similar environmental conditions. Suitable tankmates may include larger Tetras, Barbs, Garras, and Corydoras Catfish. Compatibility with smaller Danios and Loaches is also favourable.
It is important to avoid housing the Yabassi Lampeye Killifish alongside significantly larger or more robust fish, as its inherently timid nature renders it susceptible to food competition. Furthermore, the elaborate finnage of adult males can prove enticing to species with a propensity for fin-nipping.
By nature, the Yabassi Lampeye Killifish thrives in schools, and its visual impact is heightened when maintained in groups. It is recommended to acquire a minimum of 6 to 8 specimens, preferably a mix of males and females, as the presence of the opposite sex enhances the males' vibrant colouration.
The Yabassi Lampeye Killifish prospers in heavily-planted aquariums, offering abundant shaded areas. Adding floating vegetation is advantageous, as these Killifish tend to occupy the upper water levels. Utilising coarse gravel as a substrate and incorporating smooth rocks and driftwood creates a natural aesthetic. Due to their propensity for jumping, which is characteristic of most Killifish, it is imperative to provide a secure, tight-fitting lid for the aquarium.
Positioning the filter at one end of the aquarium facilitates the desired water flow while ensuring the water breaks the surface, thus enhancing oxygenation. Although most aquatic plants struggle to thrive under such conditions, resilient species like Anubias and Bolbitis can tolerate them adequately.
Originating from environments characterised by constant water renewal, the Yabassi Lampeye Killifish displays heightened sensitivity to the accumulation of organic waste. Consequently, regular small-scale water changes, ranging from 10 to 20 per cent, are imperative to maintain optimal water quality.
Yabassi Lampeye Killifish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Yabassi Lampeye Killifish is a straightforward process. The males exhibit notable characteristics that differentiate them from their female counterparts. They boast a larger physique, vibrant colouration and possess elongated anal, dorsal, and caudal fins. Conversely, the females display a subtle silvery hue, accompanied by comparatively shorter fins when compared to the males.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Procatopus nototaenia Yabassi |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cyprinodontiformes |
| Family | Poeciliidae |
| Genus | Procatopus |
| Origins | Cameroon |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | 3 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 2 - 10 |
| ℉ | 68 - 77 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 25 |
Natural Habitat
The Yabassi Lampeye Killifish are indigenous to the Lobi and Kienke River Basins situated in southwestern Cameroon, Central Africa. In its natural habitat, these Killifish populate serene forest streams characterised by clear, moderately flowing water. These ecosystems are commonly characterised by abundant marginal vegetation, fostering a verdant environment replete with ample overhead cover.
Breeding
To facilitate the successful breeding of Yabassi Lampeye Killifish, a minimalist approach is advised, employing a sparsely furnished tank with gentle filtration and subdued lighting. Like their Procatopus counterparts, these fish employ a crevice spawning strategy, wherein the eggs are carefully deposited in small recesses and crevices to evade predation.
An ideal spawning environment can be established by introducing clusters of java moss or utilising elastic bands to constrict a spawning mop at regular intervals. Alternatively, including bogwood fragments or small, immobile rocks can serve as suitable surfaces for egg deposition, although retrieving the eggs may prove more challenging in such cases.
Additionally, incorporating a compact, air-powered sponge filter will provide supplemental oxygenation and a mild current for the adult fish.
To encourage regular spawning, it is recommended to condition the Killifish with a diet consisting of small live and frozen foods. Subsequently, the eggs should be carefully transferred to a separate aquarium or a suitable container designated for hatching. If breeding proves to be sluggish, gradually elevating the temperature by a few degrees over the course of several days can stimulate spawning behaviour.
When transferring the eggs to the hatching container, utilising water sourced from the adults' primary aquarium is crucial while ensuring the container remains shielded from direct light. Some breeders opt to introduce an airstone into the container for enhanced oxygenation.
The incubation period varies depending on the prevailing temperature, typically spanning approximately 10 to 14 days until hatching occurs.
Upon hatching, the minuscule fry necessitates an initial diet comprising microscopic organisms like infusoria. Subsequently, after three to four days, they can be gradually transitioned to consuming microworms or baby brine shrimp.
It is important to note that the fry exhibits a gradual development and may initially display an unconventional head-up posture while swimming during the first couple of months. This behaviour, aimed at facilitating foraging in their natural habitat, should be regarded as a standard and adaptive trait.
Diet & Feeding
The anatomical features of the Yabassi Lampeye Killifish, including its upturned mouth and curved body shape, indicate its natural inclination towards consuming small invertebrates at the water surface. In an aquarium setting, these Killifish exhibit a pronounced preference for live and frozen sustenance, such as bloodworms, Daphnia, and Brine shrimp. Nonetheless, they readily embrace high-quality dried food options as well.
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