Meeli's Lepidio (Lepidiolamprologus meeli) Care Guide
Lepidiolamprologus meeli is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. This guide covers its tank requirements, diet, behaviour and breeding.
Overview
Lepidiolamprologus meeli is a cichlid (family Cichlidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. FishBase gives a maximum of about 7.0 cm total length, with females smaller. It is a mid-level predator (trophic level ~3.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Scientific name: Lepidiolamprologus meeli
- Described by: Poll, 1948
The species honours botanist Ludo Meel, who collected the type specimen during a 1946-1947 Belgian expedition. The genus Lepidiolamprologus belongs to the tribe Lamprologini and is closely related to Altolamprologus.
Habitat
Endemic to Katibili Bay, Lake Tanganyika; its narrow range means it has rarely if ever been imported.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L (66 gal)
- Adult size: 10-13 cm
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 8.5-9.2 (hard, alkaline rift-lake water)
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Diet
It is a mid-level predator (trophic level ~3.6) described by FishBase as a typical shell-dweller.
Compatibility
Lepidiolamprologus meeli is a semi-aggressive species that occupies the middle water layer. In a dedicated Lake Tanganyika community it is typically kept with Cyprichromis, Cyphotilapia. Avoid combining it with Small fish under 5cm.
Breeding
It is a shell-dwelling substrate spawner.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.