Poropanchax normani – Norman’s Lampeye
The species was first described by Ernst Ahl in 1928. They belong to the family Procatopodidae, which is part of the order Cyprinodontiformes. The family Procatopodidae consists of several genera, including _Poropanchax, which includes several species. The genus name Poropanchax refers to the characteristic reflective eyes, while the name normani is a tribute to the ichthyologist J.R. Norman.
Synonyms: Aplocheilichthys normani, Micropanchax normani, Aplocheilichthys gambiensis, Haplochilichthys gambiensis.
Description
Appearance:
Poropanchax normani has a slender body that is predominantly bluish and silver. The eyes have a striking reflective blue spot. The fins are usually translucent with a yellow tint. They grow to about 4 centimeters long.
Differences between sexes:
Males tend to be more colorful with longer, more pointed fins, while females have a dull color and shorter, rounded fins.
Behavior and temperament:
These fish are peaceful and live in schools. They are not aggressive and usually swim in the upper water layers. They are social and feel best in groups.
Life expectancy:
In an aquarium, they can live 3 to 5 years.
Biotope
Distribution:
Poropanchax normani occurs in countries such as Senegal, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, Niger, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Chad, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Benin, Togo and Sudan.
Habitat:
They live in small rivers, streams and swamps with a lot of vegetation. The soil usually consists of sand or mud. They have no specific natural enemies but are themselves hunters of small invertebrates.
Climate:
They live in a tropical climate with temperatures between 22°C and 26°C.
Diet
In the wild:
They feed on small invertebrates such as insect larvae.
In the aquarium:
A varied diet of live food such as artemia, daphnia, bloodworms, and high-quality dry food.
The Aquarium
Aquarium size:
An aquarium of at least 60 centimeters and 60 liters is suitable for a small group of Poropanchax normani. For larger groups, a larger aquarium is recommended.
Decoration:
A single African Light Eye is not very conspicuous, but a whole school with its reflective blue eyes is beautiful. The aquarium should be densely planted with sufficient open swimming space. Floating plants are appreciated because they dim the light, emphasizing the fish’s blue eye color. Use a sand or gravel substrate and ensure a well-covered aquarium, as these fish are excellent jumpers.
Water parameters:
The ideal water parameters for Poropanchax normani are a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and a temperature between 22°C and 26°C.
Compatibility:
These peaceful fish can live well with other small, peaceful species such as Ember Tetras, African Jellybean Tetras, Pygmy Corydoras, and Boraras. Avoid larger fish that might prey on them. It is important to keep them in schools of at least six to prevent stress.
Breeding aquarium and conditioning
Breeding environment:
For breeding Poropanchax normani a special breeding aquarium is recommended. A 40-60 liter aquarium is suitable. Provide soft lighting and an air-driven sponge filter. The aquarium should be well planted with fine leaves or floating plants such as Java moss, which serve as an egg substrate.
Conditioning:
Condition the fish with live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and mosquito larvae. It is common to use a group of two to three males and four to five females. Separating the males and females beforehand is unnecessary, but it can help stimulate breeding.
The spawn
Colors and spawning ritual:
During spawning, the colors of the fish become more intense. The eggs are usually laid on fine plants or floating mops. Mating often takes place in the morning. The eggs are relatively large for the size of the fish and hatch after 12-14 days.
Eggs:
Small numbers of eggs are usually laid, which are bright in color. The eggs are laid in open water and are sticky, so they stick to plants or breeding mop.
Raising the fry
Hatching and Care:
The eggs hatch after about 12-14 days. The fry begin to swim freely after two to three days. They should be fed infusoria for the first week, followed by Artemia nauplii.
Parental Care:
There is no parental care; the adults usually leave the fry alone, especially if there are enough hiding places. However, raising the fry in a separate breeding tank is advisable to avoid predation.
Survival and growth:
The fry grow slowly and reach adulthood after about six months. Regular water changes and a varied diet are essential for good growth and survival.
Particularities
Poropanchax normani is an excellent choice for beginning aquarists due to their peaceful nature and ease of care. They are also useful in biological control of mosquito larvae.
Conclusion
Poropanchax normani is an ideal fish for both beginners and experienced aquarists. They are easy to care for and breed, and their peaceful nature makes them suitable for community tanks. Their unique reflective eyes add a special aesthetic to any aquarium.
Video
Author
John de Lange
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