Procatopus nototaenia Lampeye Care Guide
Procatopus nototaenia is a Cameroonian forest-stream lampeye killifish reaching about 6 cm, noted as difficult to maintain in aquaria.
Overview
Procatopus nototaenia is an African lampeye killifish of the family Procatopodidae. FishBase records a maximum size of 6.0 cm total length and notes that it is not a seasonal killifish. The genus is named for the reflective ring over the eye that gives lampeyes their name.
Taxonomy
- Family: Procatopodidae
- Genus: Procatopus
- Scientific name: Procatopus nototaenia
Habitat
According to FishBase the species occurs in the Kienke and Lobé systems of southwest Cameroon. It is a freshwater, benthopelagic fish found in small rivers and brooks under forest cover, mainly in the streaming (flowing) parts. FishBase lists wild parameters of 20–25 °C, pH 6.0–6.5 and dH 1–3.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L (about 16 gal)
- Temperature: 22–26 °C (72–79 °F)
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- GH: 5–15 °dGH
- School size: 8 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 2–4 years
FishBase records natural water as soft and slightly acidic (dH 1–3, pH 6.0–6.5); the aquarium ranges above derive from the verified KB record. The species needs well-oxygenated, gently flowing water reflecting its forest-stream origin.
Diet
Procatopus nototaenia is a carnivore. As a top-dwelling lampeye it takes small invertebrate prey; in aquaria small frozen and live foods are appropriate, fed twice daily.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, top-swimming, shoaling species best kept in groups of eight or more. Suitable tankmates include small, calm species such as small tetras and rasboras; aggressive fish should be avoided. FishBase notes the species is very difficult to maintain in aquaria.
Breeding
Reproduction is by egg scattering and is regarded as an intermediate-level challenge. As a non-seasonal killifish it does not require the dry-period diapause of annual species.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 16 February 2009, per FishBase).