Lemon Cichlid
Neolamprologus leleupi
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.
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 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.