Variable Lampeye (Procatopus similis) Care Guide
Procatopus similis is an African lampeye killifish from forest streams of Nigeria and Cameroon, reaching about 6 cm.
Overview
Procatopus similis, the variable lampeye, is an African lampeye killifish of the family Procatopodidae. FishBase records a maximum size of 6.0 cm total length. Males display variable coloration with light olive to grey bodies and colourful unpaired fins, while females are semi-translucent grey or pale olive; both sexes show an orange-reflecting iris.
Taxonomy
- Family: Procatopodidae
- Genus: Procatopus
- Scientific name: Procatopus similis
Habitat
According to FishBase the species occurs on the coastal plain of southern Nigeria and west and east Cameroon, southward to the Lokundjé River. It is a freshwater, benthopelagic fish of small rivers and brooks, mainly in the streaming parts on sedimentary soils within coastal-plain rainforest and secondary forest. FishBase lists wild parameters of 24–26 °C, pH 6.0–8.0 and dH 5–12.
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
The species requires well-oxygenated, gently flowing water reflecting its forest-stream origin. The aquarium ranges above derive from the verified KB record and sit within the wild parameters reported by FishBase.
Diet
Procatopus similis 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 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 12 September 2019, per FishBase).