Mustax Cichlid (Neolamprologus mustax) Care Guide
Neolamprologus mustax is a small yellowish cave-spawning Tanganyika cichlid whose colour may mimic juveniles of Variabilichromis moorii.
Overview
Neolamprologus mustax is a small cave-dwelling cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika, described by Poll in 1978 (formerly Lamprologus mustax). It has a yellowish body; researchers suggest its colour may resemble juveniles of another cichlid, Variabilichromis moorii, possibly giving it access to that species' feeding territories.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Neolamprologus
- Scientific name: Neolamprologus mustax
- Common synonyms: Lamprologus mustax
Habitat
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika (about 3-9°S), it inhabits rocky areas. FishBase classes it as a freshwater, benthopelagic species of tropical waters around 23-25 °C.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L (53 gal)
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 8.5-9.2
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Rockwork with caves and recesses
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Provide rockwork with defendable caves. FishBase lists a wild temperature near 23-25 °C; the parameters above follow the verified care record for hard, alkaline Rift-lake water.
Diet
A carnivore that feeds on invertebrates found in the biocover or in deep recesses of the substrate, with a trophic level around 3.5 per FishBase. In the aquarium it accepts small meaty frozen and prepared foods fed about twice daily.
Compatibility
Semi-aggressive and bottom-oriented; pairs become defensive when guarding fry. Suitable companions include Cyprichromis, Julidochromis and Synodontis petricola. Avoid mbuna and Tropheus.
Breeding
A substrate (cave) spawner. FishBase notes it spawns in caves and raises its young in seclusion, following the typical lamprologine pattern.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2025), per FishBase.