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Overview

Norman's Lampeye is a savannah dwelling species known from the heavily vegetated margins of small rivers, brooks, and streams. These diminutive fish are shoaling by nature and are often observed congregating in their thousands. The home aquarium should be biologically mature with high standards of water quality maintained at all times; Norman's Lampeyes are a relatively delicate fish and require stable water conditions with plenty of cover in the form of driftwood and plants. Water movement must be kept as gentle as possible, and dark substrate and décor choices will help to bring out the vibrant blue color in the upper irises of these tiny fish (which, interestingly, is even visible on fry that are just a few days old). Despite the small adult size of these fish, the tank itself should be fairly spacious, as they are an active species, especially when breeding. Lighting should be fairly dim, although brighter lighting can be employed if there is plenty of surface cover in the form of floating plants such as Azolla, Ceratopteris, or Pistia species. Always maintain this peaceful, timid species in good sized groups of at least 10 specimens. Many aquarists like to keep them in a dedicated species-only set-up that is tailored specifically to their needs, but they can be kept alongside other tiny peaceable species.

Males develop longer, more pointed fins compared to those of the females, which are shorter and rounder. Males often grow larger and are slightly more colourful overall.

Prefers small, meaty frozen foods such as cyclops, baby brineshrimp (Artemia nauplii), Daphnia, mini-bloodworm, and white mosquito larvae. Some specimens will also take crushed flake and micropellets. Try to offer a variety of foods, with frozen fare included several times per week.
Norman's Lampeyes are relatively easy to breed, and in densely planted aquaria, small numbers of fry are likely appear from time to time.

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