Pearly Lamprologus
Scientific Name(s): Altolamprologus calvus
General Care: A fairly easy and somewhat docile cichlid suitable for Tanganyikan cichlid aquariums containing similar sized fish. A high protein diet is a necessity for the long term survival of this species. The Altolamprologus calvus is endemic to Lake Tanganyika in Africa. Large water changes are generally not appreciated, but this species will require good water quality.
Minimum Tank Size: 25 gallons for a single male or two females, at least 35 gallons for a male/female pair.
Description: Color is dependent on the many geographical variants, such as inkfin, white, yellow, black, etc. Characterized by a long snout, and numerous black vertical bars along its body length. A black line sloping from the eye to the mouth can be seen, this stripe is used to disguise and hide the eye. Another distinguishing feature is the bright speckles that are dominant along the sides of the fish.
Distribution: Lake Tanganyika, Africa.
Diet: This species is a carnivore, meaning it will require a high protein diet. Feeding on crustaceans and the fry of other fish species. Pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods will provide the proper nutrition to allow this fish to thrive.
Water Parameters: pH - 7.5/8.5
Temperature - 74/82 F (23/28 C)
Size: Males cann reach up to 6 inches while females are only 2/3 the size, and a little less than 4 inches. This size difference is exploited mainly during breeding. This species is known to be a very slow grower.
Water Region: Mid to lower reaches of the water column.
Sexing: Males are generally larger, females being about 2/3 the adult length of male. Males also tend to have more pointed fins, but this should not be used as a reliable method of sexing.
Breeding: Provide large shells, and/or caves for breeding. This species is a cave spawner in which the female will choose a cave with an opening that is too small for the male to fit it. The female will lay her eggs, with the male outside the cave releasing his milt. The male and the female will fan the milt into the cave to fertilize the eggs. The female will remain in the cave, fanning the eggs and tending to their needs, while the male will remain outside the cave for a few days guarding the area. After 2 or 3 days, the eggs will hatch. 10 days after the eggs have been laid, the fry will become free-swimming. The fry can be left with the parents, where the mother can guard them but it is likely they will become a treat for the male. Other options include removing the male and any other aquarium residence to allow the female to rear the fry in peace, or to remove the fry to a growout tank where you can raise them.
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