Neolamprologus savoryi Care Guide
Neolamprologus savoryi is a small lamprologine cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika, living in sediment-rich rocky zones and breeding in caves.
Overview
Neolamprologus savoryi is a cichlid of the family Cichlidae described by Poll in 1949. It is endemic to Lake Tanganyika, where according to FishBase it occurs in the sediment-rich regions of the lake. FishBase records a maximum total length of about 8 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Neolamprologus
- Scientific name: Neolamprologus savoryi
- Described by: Poll, 1949
Habitat
The species is endemic to Lake Tanganyika and occurs roughly between 3°S and 9°S. According to FishBase it lives in sediment-rich regions, usually at depths of about 6 to 12 m. Its name honours Bryan Wyman Savory, an administrator during a 1946-1947 hydrobiological expedition to the lake.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (FishBase records 23-26 °C)
- pH: 8.5-9.2 (FishBase records 7.3-8.5)
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Lifespan: 7-10 years
Diet
Neolamprologus savoryi is a carnivore; FishBase reports a high trophic level of about 4.2, indicating a diet of animal prey. In the aquarium it accepts small meaty and prepared foods.
Compatibility
This small, semi-aggressive lamprologine occupies the middle and lower levels of the tank. Suitable companions include Cyprichromis, Julidochromis and Synodontis petricola, while aggressive Mbuna and Tropheus should be avoided.
Breeding
Based on the record, Neolamprologus savoryi is a cave spawner that deposits its eggs on hidden surfaces within rocky shelters.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. The species is recorded in commercial fisheries and the aquarium trade.