Cylindrical Cichlid
Neolamprologus cylindricus
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.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–27 |
| pH | 7.5–8.5 |
| GH | 8–15 |
| KH | 8–12 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.5 |
Care
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.