Altolamprologus Calvus (Altolamprologus calvus) Care Guide

A laterally compressed Tanganyika cichlid with a distinctive high forehead and armor-like scales. Its flat body allows it to squeeze into narrow rock crevices to hunt prey and spawn.

Overview

Altolamprologus calvus is a species in the family Cichlidae. A laterally compressed Tanganyika cichlid with a distinctive high forehead and armor-like scales. Its flat body allows it to squeeze into narrow rock crevices to hunt prey and spawn. Comes in black and white color morphs. A slow grower that rewards patience.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Altolamprologus
Scientific name: Altolamprologus calvus
Other names: Black Calvus, White Calvus
Origin: Africa

Habitat

Endemic to the southern half of Lake Tanganyika, found along rocky shorelines from Cape Chaitika and Mpulungu (Zambia) to Cameron Bay. The laterally compressed body and reinforced scales allow it to squeeze into narrow rock fissures while hunting shrimps and small fish.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 150 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 7.5-9
GH: 10-20 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 10-15 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Swimming level: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Julidochromis, Neolamprologus, Synodontis Petricola
Avoid with: Malawi Cichlids, Large Aggressive Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: cave-spawner
Breeding difficulty: intermediate