Scientific Name:

Altolamprologus calvus (previously Lamprologus calvus)

Approximate purchase size:

2-3cm

All Pond Solutions will always endeavor to supply as close to the approximate size range as possible.  Due to variations from suppliers, on rare occasions, this may not always be possible. 

How easy are they to care for?

If given the correct environment and good they are moderately easy to care for. They require plenty of rocks and caves that mimic their natural environment. They require weekly partial water changes in order to stay in the best condition. A minimum aquarium size of 40 – 50 gallons is recommended for a pair.

How large can they grow?

Up to 15cm

Where in the world are they from?

Lake Tanganyika, Africa

What is the ideal number to keep together?

These fish can be kept in community tanks but if they are kept with a large number of fish in an aquarium they will establish their own territory.

What water conditions do they require?

A water temperature between 22.8 - 25° C and a pH level between 8-9 is required

What should you feed them?

Flakes, frozen brine shrimp, live brine shrimp, and bloodworms

How compatible are they with other fish?

It can be kept in a community as it is a non-aggressive fish, it can be kept with other peaceful Tanganyika cichlids but it will eat fry that is kept in the tank. Sexually mature males can become aggressive towards each other, so it is best to keep one male with 4- 5 females. Do not keep with Mbuna or species in the Tropheusor Petrochromis genera.  

Can they be bred in captivity?

Females are egg layers and will lay 75 – 200 eggs in a caved area and then the male will release sperm for fertilization. Once the eggs are fertilized the female will guard the eggs inside the cave and the male will protect the surrounding territory.