Neolamprologus brevis Care Guide
Neolamprologus brevis is a small Lake Tanganyika shell-dweller notable because a pair shares a single shell, a peaceful choice for nano tanks.
Overview
Neolamprologus brevis is a small shell-dwelling cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika, described by Boulenger in 1899. Unusually for shell-dwellers, a male and female pair share the same shell rather than holding separate ones. It is relatively peaceful for a Lamprologine and well suited to nano Tanganyika tanks.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Neolamprologus
- Scientific name: Neolamprologus brevis
- Common synonyms: Lamprologus brevis
Habitat
The species is endemic to Lake Tanganyika, where it inhabits empty snail shells, primarily of the genus Neothauma, on sandy substrate. The hard, alkaline water of the lake underpins its care requirements.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 8.5-9.2
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Substrate: sand with suitable snail shells
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
Diet
It feeds on zooplankton and small invertebrates, suited to its diminutive size. In the aquarium it accepts small frozen and prepared foods offered near the substrate.
Compatibility
It is peaceful by Lamprologine standards and suits a Tanganyika community with Cyprichromis, Julidochromis, other shell-dwellers and Synodontis petricola. It should not be kept with mbuna, Tropheus or aggressive haps.
Breeding
The pair spawns inside their shared shell, with both adults present. Males are notably larger than females and can be sexed even when young. Captive breeding is rated easy.
Conservation status
Neolamprologus brevis is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.