Two-Striped Lampeye

Chromaphyosemion bitaeniatum

Also known as Lagos Killifish, Two-Banded Killifish

Animalia›Chordata›Cyprinodontiformes›Nothobranchiidae

The Two-Striped Lampeye is a tiny, peaceful killifish native to West Africa, known for its distinctive two dark stripes running along its body and bright eye-spot markings. These nano fish are perfect for small planted aquariums and are best kept in groups to display their natural schooling behavior. They are relatively hardy and make excellent additions to community tanks with other small, peaceful species.

At a glance

Size: 1.2 in; 3 cm
Min tank: 10 gal; 38 L
Group: 6+
Temp: 72–79°F; 22–26°C
pH: 6.0-7.0
GH: 71–143 ppm; 4–8 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Top
Lifespan: 2-3 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Two-Striped Lampeyes are carnivorous and require small live or frozen foods such as microworms, daphnia, and newly hatched brine shrimp. Feed small portions 2-3 times daily, offering only what they can consume in a few minutes. They may be reluctant to accept dry foods but can be trained with patience.

Behavior

These tiny killifish are active swimmers that prefer to stay in the middle water column, often hovering near plants. They are peaceful and social, displaying best behavior when kept in groups of 6 or more where they exhibit natural schooling patterns. They are shy and appreciate densely planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots.

Breeding

Two-Striped Lampeyes are egg-scatterers that can breed in well-established planted tanks with soft, acidic water. Breeding is moderately difficult and requires patience; fry are extremely small and need infusoria or liquid fry food initially. Separating breeding pairs into a dedicated breeding tank increases success rates.

Tank mates

See all 6

Ember Tetra

Similar size and peaceful temperament; both prefer small groups

excellent

Least Rasbora

Comparable nano fish with matching water parameter requirements

excellent

Dwarf Hairgrass

Provides shelter and creates natural-looking planted environment

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Peaceful invertebrate that shares similar water conditions

good

Java Moss

Dense vegetation provides hiding spots and spawning substrate

excellent

Fits a 10-gallon tank Peaceful

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it.