Bluegreen Lampeye, Green La (Procatopus aberrans) — 3,5-4cm

Overview

Bluegreen Lampeye (Procatopus aberrans), also known as the Green Lampeye, is a shimmering, peaceful African lampeye that adds movement and sparkle to a planted community aquarium. Native to West Africa, likely Cameroon and adjacent regions, this species is prized for its iridescent coloration, delicate beauty, and manageable size. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this charming surface-dweller is ideal for the planted aquarium keeper seeking a peaceful, active shoaling species.

Appearance

The Bluegreen Lampeye typically reaches around 3.5 cm in total length, making it a small and delicate fish. The body is elongated and semi-transparent, with a shimmering blue-green iridescence that appears to glow under subdued lighting. The eyes are large and reflective, giving the species its "lampeye" common name. The fins are delicate and transparent, often showing subtle hints of color in well-conditioned males. Females are generally more subdued in color. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged fins.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Procatopus aberrans is native to West Africa, likely Cameroon and adjacent regions, where it inhabits slow-moving streams, forest pools, and heavily vegetated swamps. These waters are typically soft, warm, and slightly acidic, with muddy or sandy substrates and plenty of aquatic vegetation providing cover. The fish spend much of their time near the surface, feeding on small insects, larvae, and zooplankton. Light levels are low due to the dense canopy above.

Aquarium Setup

A small, well-planted aquarium of at least 40 litres is recommended for a shoal of Bluegreen Lampeyes. Use a fine, dark substrate and incorporate plenty of live plants such as Java moss, Java fern, Cryptocoryne species, and floating plants to provide cover and subdued lighting. Filtration should be gentle but effective, and a tightly fitting lid is essential, as lampeyes are active jumpers. Subdued lighting and minimal water movement will help the fish settle and display their best colors.

Feeding

The Bluegreen Lampeye is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet. Offer high-quality micro pellets or flakes as a staple, supplemented with small frozen and live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and mosquito larvae. They also benefit from occasional vegetable matter or algae-based foods. Feed twice daily in small amounts to maintain excellent water quality.

Behaviour

This lampeye is peaceful, active, and social, constantly on the move near the surface and best kept in a shoal of at least six individuals. When kept in proper numbers, the Bluegreen Lampeye is confident and displays natural schooling behavior. Males may engage in mild displays, but serious aggression is rare. They occupy the upper levels of the aquarium and are most active during the day, constantly darting about and feeding on the surface.

Tank Mates

The Bluegreen Lampeye is suitable for a peaceful community aquarium with other small fish. Good tankmates include small peaceful fish of similar size, other non-aggressive lampeyes or small schooling fish, and peaceful shrimp and snails. Avoid large predatory fish, fin-nippers, aggressive cichlids, boisterous tankmates, and very large shrimp-eating fish.

Breeding

Breeding the Bluegreen Lampeye is achievable with careful preparation. This is an egg-scattering species that may spawn among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Provide soft, clean water and separate adults from eggs if possible, as they may eat them. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or other very small live foods initially, graduating to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering rare and beautiful African species like the Bluegreen Lampeye direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add peaceful, colorful species to your collection. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.