Fasciatus (Neolamprologus fasciatus) Care Guide
Neolamprologus fasciatus is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. This guide covers its tank requirements, diet, behaviour and breeding.
Overview
Neolamprologus fasciatus is a cichlid (family Cichlidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. FishBase gives a maximum of 15.0 cm total length. Gut-content analysis shows it feeds primarily on shrimp, and it has often been observed to ambush young cichlids.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Scientific name: Neolamprologus fasciatus
- Described by: Boulenger, 1898
Habitat
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L (66 gal)
- Adult size: 11-14 cm
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 8.5-9.2 (hard, alkaline rift-lake water)
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Lifespan: 7-11 years
Diet
Gut-content analysis shows it feeds primarily on shrimp, and it has often been observed to ambush young cichlids; it inhabits shallow water and is not rock-bound.
Compatibility
Neolamprologus fasciatus is a semi-aggressive species that occupies the bottom water layer. In a dedicated Lake Tanganyika community it is typically kept with Cyprichromis, Larger Lamprologines. Avoid combining it with Mbuna, Smaller shellies.
Breeding
It is a substrate spawner that has frequently been observed to spawn in empty snail shells on the sand floor.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Not Evaluated.