Cylindrical Cichlid

Neolamprologus cylindricus

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwatercichlid

Neolamprologus cylindricus is an elongated cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, characterized by its cylindrical body and vertical bands. It is a territorial fish that lives in pairs.

Cylindrical Cichlid — photo 1 sur 3
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Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern

Description

This cichlid reaches up to 12 cm and has an elongated cylindrical body, hence its name. Coloration is beige to gray with 6 to 8 dark vertical bands. Fins are transparent with bluish reflections. The head is small and the mouth is terminal. It lives in rocky areas and hides in crevices. It is a very territorial fish, aggressive towards conspecifics and other species. Breeding occurs in caves with intense parental care. It is less common in aquariums than other Neolamprologus.

Habitat

Region :

Lake Tanganyika, rocky and sandy areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2427 °C
pH7.58.5
GH815 °dGH
KH812 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Carnivore
Min. tank
120 L
Min. group
2
Adult size
12 cm
Lifespan
7 years
Temperament
très territorial
Propagation
ponte sur substrat, soins parentaux

Care notes

Temperature 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, KH 8-12. A minimum 120-liter tank for a pair. Carnivorous/omnivorous diet: brine shrimp, worms, small fish, pellets. Avoid overly small or shy tankmates; prefer robust cichlids of similar size. Provide many rocks and caves. Regular water changes (20% weekly). Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Watch for aggression during breeding.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References