Norman’s Lamp Eye Tetra

The Norman’s Lampeye Tetra is a common name for a small killifish, scientifically known as Poropanchax normani (often listed under the old genus Aplocheilichthys). They are famous for the iridescent blue “lamp” or crescent above their eyes that glows under aquarium light.

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Norman’s Lampeye Killifish (Poropanchax normani) Care Guide

 

 

Tank Setup and Water Parameters

 

The Norman’s Lampeye is one of the hardier killifish available in the hobby, making it an excellent choice for beginners with stable tanks.

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons for a small school, but 20 gallons is better for active swimming and stability.
• Schooling: They are a schooling fish and must be kept in groups of at least 6-10 individuals. They become stressed and hide when kept alone.
• Temperature: Tropical range: 72°–79° F (22°–26° C).
• pH Level: Adaptable, ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline: 6.0 to 7.5.
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (up to 15 dGH).

 

Habitat and Environment

 

They inhabit the shallow, vegetated margins of slow-moving streams and swamps.

• Lighting: Subdued or dim lighting is highly recommended, as this dramatically enhances the iconic blue glow of their eyes. Floating plants are excellent for diffusing the light.
• Decor: Use a dark substrate (sand or fine gravel). Decorate with dense live plants (especially fine-leaved ones), driftwood, and leaf litter (e.g., Indian almond leaves) to provide cover.
• Water Flow: They prefer gentle filtration with minimal current, mimicking their natural, calm water habitat.
• Caution: Like many killifish, they are known to jump, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

 

Diet and Feeding

 

The Norman’s Lampeye is a micro-predator that feeds almost exclusively at the water’s surface.

• Staple Diet: High-quality, crushed flake food or micro-pellets that float for a while.
• Supplementation: A varied diet is crucial for health and color. They thrive on small, meaty foods:
  • Frozen or live Baby Brine Shrimp
  • Frozen or live Daphnia
  • Cyclops
• Feeding Tip: Since they are surface feeders, they may ignore food that sinks too quickly. Feed small amounts 2-3 times a day.

 

Compatibility and Tank Mates

 

They are a peaceful and timid species best suited for nano or calm community tanks.

• Good Tank Mates: Other peaceful nano fish like Ember Tetras, Pygmy Corydoras, Chili Rasboras, Otocinclus, and most dwarf shrimp (though they might eat tiny shrimplets).
• Avoid: Any large, aggressive, or fast-moving fish that will out-compete them for food or view them as prey.

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