Lemon Cichlid

Neolamprologus leleupi

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwatercichlid

Neolamprologus leleupi is a bright yellow cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, very popular in aquariums for its striking color. It is territorial and requires a dedicated tank.

Lemon Cichlid — photo 1 sur 4
Dr. David Midgley · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.51 / 4
Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern

Description

This fish reaches 10 cm and has an elongated body of uniform lemon yellow color, without stripes or spots. The fins are also yellow, sometimes with a slight white border. It has a pointed head and a terminal mouth. It is a very territorial cichlid, especially during breeding. It lives in pairs and vigorously defends its cave. Spawning occurs on the ceiling of a cavity, and parents guard eggs and fry. It is sensitive to water quality.

Habitat

Region :

Lake Tanganyika, deep rocky 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
100 L
Min. group
2
Adult size
10 cm
Lifespan
6 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 100-liter tank for a pair. Carnivorous/omnivorous diet: brine shrimp, bloodworms, small crustaceans, quality pellets. Avoid overly active tankmates; prefer other Tanganyika cichlids of similar size but not too aggressive. Provide many caves and hiding spots. Regular water changes (20% weekly). Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.5 mg/L. Watch for nitrite spikes.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References