Lamprologus werneri Care Guide
Lamprologus werneri is a riverine West African cichlid from the lower Congo River, a pair-bonded cave spawner of fast-flowing rapids habitats.
Overview
Lamprologus werneri is a riverine cichlid from the lower Congo River, one of the few West African Lamprologus species. It has a sandy-toned body with subtle barring and red-tipped fins. The species is rheophilic and is a pair-bonding cave spawner.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Lamprologus
- Scientific name: Lamprologus werneri
- Described: Poll, 1959
Habitat
The species occurs in Pool Malebo and the rapids immediately downstream, with records as far west as Manianga along the Congo River system in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo. FishBase gives a temperature range of 22 to 25 °C for the species.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Adult size: up to about 10 cm
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
Diet
The species is carnivorous, with a relatively high trophic level, indicating it feeds on smaller organisms and other fish. In the aquarium it takes meaty frozen and live foods. Small feedings twice daily are appropriate.
Compatibility
The species is semi-aggressive and territorial. Suitable companions include other riverine Congo fish such as Steatocranus and Congo tetras kept with adequate current. Hard-water Rift-lake cichlids such as mbuna and Tropheus should be avoided.
Breeding
The species is described as probably a pair-bonding cave spawner. A pair claims a sheltered site for breeding, and parental care of the brood follows. Breeding is of intermediate difficulty in a tank that reproduces its flowing-water habitat.
Conservation status
FishBase lists Lamprologus werneri as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List, reflecting its restricted riverine range.