Prochilus (Neolamprologus prochilus) Care Guide

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

Overview

Neolamprologus prochilus is a cichlid (family Cichlidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. FishBase gives a maximum of 17.0 cm total length. It is an omnivore/carnivore (trophic level ~3.

Taxonomy

• Family: Cichlidae
• Scientific name: Neolamprologus prochilus
• Described by: Bailey & Stewart, 1977

Habitat

Endemic to the southern end of Lake Tanganyika, where it occurs deep down the rocky slope at depths of about 5-40 m.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 250 L (66 gal)
• Adult size: 12-15 cm
• Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
• pH: 8.5-9.2 (hard, alkaline rift-lake water)
• GH: 12-25 °dGH
• Lifespan: 8-12 years

Diet

It is an omnivore/carnivore (trophic level ~3.7).

Compatibility

Neolamprologus prochilus 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, Tropheus.

Breeding

It is a pair-bonded cave-spawner.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern.