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. 

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 

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. 

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. 

Ideal Water Parameters

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

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.