Caudopunctatus Cichlid

The Lamprologus Caudopunctatus Cichlid, also called the Neolamprologus Caudopunctatus Cichlid, originates from the rocky Zambian coastal waters of Lake Tanganyika, Africa. This species is one of the smaller of the cichlids, only attaining a maximum size of 3-1/2 inches. Their bodies are silver in color with a tan hue, and the dorsal and anal fins are very colorful with blue and yellow outlines and spots giving these fish a more dramatic look.

The Lamprologus Caudopunctatus Cichlid should be maintained in an aquarium of at least 30 gallons with other smaller Tanganyikan cichlids. Incorporate plenty of rocks, shells and African driftwood in order to build caves. Provide a sandy bottom comprised of aragonite to maintain the necessary high pH and alkalinity, and for breeding purposes.

The Lamprologus Caudopunctatus Cichlid is a substrate spawner, and breeding is more difficult than most of the cichlids. This is a very slow growing species which may take a few years to reach sexual maturity. At that time, the males are typically larger than the females, attaining a size of about 3-1/2″ compared to 2-1/2″ with females. Provide a few inches of sand, and plenty empty shells for the female to lay their eggs. They are typically a substrate spawner; but also may lay their eggs within a shell. Incubation occurs in 3 to 4 days. To increase their survival rates, relocate the young to a separate aquarium after hatching. Feed the fry newly hatched brine shrimp and finely crushed flake food.

Their diet should contain meaty items such as blood worms, brine and mysis shrimp, carnivore flake and pellet foods.

Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4″ to 1-1/4″