Breeding Neolamprologus cylindricus

Breeding Neolamprologus cylindricus: a secretive rock-dwelling Tanganyikan cave spawner that lays eggs inside a cave and raises its fry in seclusion within the crevices.

Overview

Neolamprologus cylindricus is an elongated rock-dwelling Lamprologine endemic to the south-eastern part of Lake Tanganyika, reaching about 10.4 cm total length. According to Wikipedia it lays its eggs in caves, and FishBase classifies it as a substrate spawner that raises its fry in seclusion within the recesses of the rocky biotope.

Sexing

Sexing is subtle. As in related Lamprologines, adult males tend to grow larger; otherwise pairs are best obtained by raising a group and letting a bond form.

Conditioning

Provide stable, hard, alkaline water. FishBase lists a pH range of 7.0-8.5, hardness of 10-15 dH and a temperature of 23-28 C for the species. A carnivorous diet matching its natural feeding on small crustaceans and invertebrates supports condition.

Breeding Setup

Aquascape with sand and dense rockwork that forms tight caves and recesses, reflecting the recesses of the rocky biotope this species favours. A defensible cave is required, as cave spawners of this group will not breed without a suitable cavity.

Spawning Behavior & Trigger

Spawning is secretive within a cave. As a substrate (cave) spawner the female deposits adhesive eggs inside the cavity. Mature lake-type water and the presence of a tight cave are the principal conditions for spawning.

Egg & Fry Care

FishBase describes the species as raising its fry in seclusion, with the brood kept hidden inside the cave. Free-swimming fry are reared within the protected cavity before venturing out.

Common Challenges

The species is described as solitary, and aggression toward conspecifics rises during breeding, so a single pair in a spacious, cave-rich tank with visual barriers is the most reliable arrangement.