Leloup's Cichlid (Neolamprologus leloupi) Care Guide

Neolamprologus leloupi is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. This guide covers its tank requirements, diet, behaviour and breeding.

Overview

Neolamprologus leloupi is a cichlid (family Cichlidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. FishBase gives a maximum of about 6.1 cm total length. It is a micropredator (trophic level ~3.

Taxonomy

• Family: Cichlidae
• Scientific name: Neolamprologus leloupi
• Described by: Poll, 1948

Habitat

Endemic to Lake Tanganyika.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 150 L (40 gal)
• Adult size: 7-9 cm
• Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
• pH: 8.5-9.2 (hard, alkaline rift-lake water)
• GH: 12-25 °dGH
• Lifespan: 5-8 years

Diet

It is a micropredator (trophic level ~3.4).

Compatibility

Neolamprologus leloupi is a peaceful species that occupies the bottom water layer. In a dedicated Lake Tanganyika community it is typically kept with Cyprichromis, Julidochromis, Other shellies, Synodontis petricola. Avoid combining it with Mbuna, Tropheus, Aggressive haps.

Breeding

It is a pair-bonded cave-spawner.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern.