Species profile
Norman Lampeye
Poropanchax normani
Peaceful
Easy care
60 L minimum aquarium
3–4 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A proper shoal is important. Tiny adult size means they should not share with fish large enough to swallow them.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 10
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.45
Peaceful, active schooling fish. Best kept in a group of ten or more with similarly calm small tankmates.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
2–4 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Poropanchax normani
Alternative names
Norman's Lampeye, Norman Lampeye
Native range
West Africa, across several small river and swamp systems.
Natural habitat
Small vegetated streams, brooks and swampy waters. Keep in a mature planted tank with surface cover, gentle flow and a secure lid.
Diet & feeding
Small insectivore/omnivore. Offer fine quality dry foods plus daphnia, cyclops, Artemia and other small live/frozen prey.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are usually more colourful and have more extended fins; females are plainer and fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Non-annual egg-layer. Eggs are deposited among fine plants or spawning mops and hatch without a dry diapause; fry require tiny first foods.