Blue‑green Lampeye Killifish (Procatopus aberrans) Wild - Large - Aquarium Glaser

Procatopus aberrans

Common name: Blue‑green Lampeye
Family: Procatopodidae (African lampeyes / killifish)

Procatopus aberrans is a striking West African lampeye killifish, best known for its brilliant reflective “lamp” eyes and metallic blue‑green sheen along the flanks. It’s a peaceful schooling species, but more demanding than most common lampeyes and best suited to well‑maintained aquaria. 

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Identification & Appearance

• Body shape: Slender, torpedo‑shaped, built for current
• Colour: Pale silver to light olive base with intense blue‑green iridescence along the sides
• Eyes: Distinctive reflective spot in the upper iris (“lampeye”)
• Fins: Males often show elongated anal/caudal rays with red, pink, or orange highlights
• Sexual dimorphism: Males are larger, brighter, and more colourful than females 

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Natural Distribution & Habitat

• Countries: Nigeria and Cameroon
• Habitat: Rainforest streams and forest–savannah transition zones
• Water type: Clear to lightly tannin‑stained streams with moderate current and high oxygen
• Substrate: Laterite, clay, stones, leaf litter; sparse aquatic plants

In the wild, P. aberrans is often found schooling in flowing sections of small rivers and creeks under forest cover. 

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Size & Lifespan

• Adult size:
  • Males: ~5–5.5 cm (2–2.2 in)
  • Females: slightly smaller
• Lifespan: Commonly 3–5 years in aquaria with excellent care

Claims of very large sizes (8–12 cm) sometimes appear online but are not supported by ichthyological or hobby references. 

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Ideal Water Parameters

Parameter	Recommended
Temperature	22–26 °C (72–79 °F)
pH	6.5–7.5
Hardness	Soft to moderately hard
Flow	Moderate
Oxygen	High (strongly recommended)

They are sensitive to nitrogenous waste, so pristine water quality is critical. 

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Aquarium Setup

• Minimum tank size: ~75 L / 20 gal
• Group size: 6–10 specimens (schooling fish)
• Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel
• Décor: Driftwood, rocks, dense side/background planting
• Flow: Added current via powerhead or directional filter return
• Cover: Tight‑fitting lid – strong jumpers

A longer tank footprint is preferred over height to allow for natural schooling behavior. 

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Diet

Omnivorous, with a strong preference for small live foods

• Live/frozen: Daphnia, baby brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, bloodworms
• Dry foods: High‑quality flake or micro‑pellets (supplemental)

Regular live or frozen food greatly enhances colour and condition. 

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Temperament & Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful
• Best kept with:
  Other gentle, similarly sized fish (small tetras, non‑aggressive lampeyes)
• Avoid:
  Boisterous fish, fin‑nippers, or species that outcompete them for food

Despite their calm nature, many experienced keepers prefer species‑only tanks due to their sensitivity and value. 

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Breeding Notes

• Reproductive type: Non‑annual killifish
• Spawning method: Eggs deposited into crevices (mops, cork, foam)
• Egg production: ~10–20 eggs per female per week
• Incubation: ~14–15 days at ~24 °C
• Fry: Very small; first foods include vinegar eels and microworms

Breeding is possible but considered moderately challenging, with fry being sensitive to sudden water changes. 

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