Lake Pampeye Pumilus (Aplocheilichthys pumilus) — 3-5cm

Overview

The Lake Pampeye Pumilus (Aplocheilichthys pumilus) is a rare, peaceful Central African lampeye endemic to Lake Pampeye in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Reaching 4cm in length, this delicate species adds lively surface activity and subtle beauty to nano community aquariums. Ideal for secure, covered tanks with calm tankmates and gentle filtration, Aplocheilichthys pumilus thrives in warm, soft to moderately hard water with excellent water quality. Available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this rare lampeye rewards dedicated keepers with fascinating surface behaviours and shimmering iridescence.

Appearance and Coloration

The Lake Pampeye Pumilus displays subtle but striking colouration with a slender, translucent body that shimmers with iridescent highlights under subdued lighting. The most distinctive feature is the large, reflective "lampeye" — a bright, reflective area above the eye that glows in low light. Males are slightly more colourful than females, with faint yellow or green tones on the body and fins. Females are plumper and more subdued in colour. In a planted tank with dark substrate, the shimmering scales and reflective eyes become even more visible.

Natural Habitat

Aplocheilichthys pumilus is endemic to Lake Pampeye, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where it inhabits shallow, vegetated areas with slow-moving or still water. These waters are typically warm, soft to moderately hard, and well-vegetated, with abundant floating plants and surface cover. The substrate consists of mud, sand, and organic debris, and water flow is minimal. During the breeding season, these fish spawn among fine-leaved plants or submerged vegetation.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum 60-litre aquarium is recommended for a small group of Lake Pampeye Pumilus. Use a fine sand or smooth gravel substrate with plenty of live plants such as Cryptocoryne, Java moss, Microsorum, and floating species like Salvinia or Limnobium. Provide open swimming space near the surface, as this is a surface-oriented species that spends most of its time at or near the water's surface. Filtration should be gentle to avoid strong currents. A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential, as these fish are active jumpers and prefer calm water.

Feeding and Diet

As an insectivore, Aplocheilichthys pumilus requires a varied, protein-rich diet of small live and frozen foods such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, and quality micro-pellets or flakes. Offer varied, protein-rich meals in small portions once or twice daily, removing uneaten food promptly to maintain excellent water quality. This surface-oriented predator is well-adapted to capturing small prey at the water's surface, so live foods are ideal for maintaining condition and colour.

Behaviour and Temperament

The Lake Pampeye Pumilus is a peaceful, active species that spends most of its time at or near the water's surface. These fish are social and should be kept in small groups of at least six individuals to encourage natural behaviours and reduce stress. They are most active during dawn and dusk, and they appreciate dimly lit aquariums with plenty of surface cover. They are not competitive feeders, so avoid housing them with boisterous or fast-moving species.

Suitable Tank Mates

Suitable companions include other small peaceful fish of similar size and water needs, such as peaceful nano fish, small rasboras, and Microdevario. Snails are safe companions, and shrimp may be kept with caution, though juveniles may be at risk. Avoid large fish, aggressive species, fin-nippers, fast boisterous species, and predatory cichlids. A calm, quiet environment is essential for this delicate lampeye to thrive and display natural surface behaviours.

Breeding

This species is likely an egg-scattering lampeye that will spawn among fine plants or spawning mops. Adults may eat eggs and fry, so a separate breeding tank improves success. Condition a small group with high-quality live foods, then provide spawning media such as Java moss or yarn mops. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, graduating to newly hatched brine shrimp after a few days. Remove adults to prevent egg and fry predation. Breeding success is highest in warm, soft water with excellent quality.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a trusted UK supplier of rare and specialist tropical fish, including hard-to-find lampeye species like Aplocheilichthys pumilus. We guarantee healthy, well-conditioned stock, expert care advice, and secure nationwide delivery. Every fish is quarantined and inspected before dispatch, ensuring you receive only the finest specimens. Whether you're setting up a dedicated lampeye tank or adding a rare species to your nano community, Tropical Fish Co offers unmatched quality and customer service. Order online today and bring the beauty of Lake Pampeye into your home aquarium.