All fish / Cichlidae

Neolamprologus pectoralis

Neolamprologus pectoralis

Also known as lamprologus pectoralis, pectoralis cichlid

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A rarely seen lamprologine cichlid from the rocky southwestern coast of Lake Tanganyika, with a slim body, long dorsal fin and subtle brownish tones with pale blue edging on the fins. It appeals to Tanganyika specialists who enjoy watching a pair claim a cave and raise a family among the rocks.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

11 cm

Temperature

24 to 27 °C

pH

7.8 to 9

Smallest tank

160 litres

Keep as

A pair, or one male with one or two females

Diet

Carnivore: small crustaceans, mysis, brine shrimp, krill and quality cichlid pellets

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

8 to 10 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Lake Tanganyika, southwestern shore (DR Congo)

Breeding

A cave spawner that lays its eggs on the roof or wall of a rocky hole, with both parents guarding the eggs and fry. Breeding is fairly straightforward once a compatible pair has formed in a tank with plenty of rockwork and hard, alkaline water.

Good to know

Becomes territorial and aggressive towards its own kind and similar bottom dwellers when spawning, so provide many caves and plenty of space. It is uncommon in the trade and may be confused with related lamprologines, so buy from specialist sources.