Splendid cichlid

Neolamprologus splendens

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwatercichlid

Medium-sized cichlid living among rocks, with bright colors.

Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Lake Tanganyika
Lac africain, eau dure, cichlidés Tropheus, Cyprichromis.

Description

Neolamprologus splendens reaches up to 12 cm. It has a robust body and well-developed fins. Its coloration ranges from yellow to blue with metallic reflections. Unlike the other Neolamprologus in this list, it does not live in shells but in rock crevices. It is territorial and can be aggressive towards conspecifics. It forms monogamous pairs and lays eggs on rock surfaces. This species is prized for its beauty and interesting behavior.

Habitat

Region :

Rocky and intermediate zones, sometimes on sandy bottoms

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2427 °C
pH89
GH1020 °dGH
KH1020 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 1 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Omnivore
Min. tank
100 L
Min. group
2
Adult size
12 cm
Lifespan
8 years
Temperament
Aggressive
Propagation
substrate spawner

Care notes

Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8-9, GH 10-20, KH 10-20. Provide plenty of rock caves. Omnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, vegetable matter. A pair needs at least 100 liters. Group possible in a large tank (300L+). Compatible with other robust Tanganyikan cichlids. Avoid very small fish. Strong filtration is necessary. Parameters must be stable. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References