Fairy cichlid - Neolamprologus brichardi

Scientific name: Neolamprologus brichardi

Common name: Fairy cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 9 - 10 cm (3.54 - 3.94 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7.6 - 8.9

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 12 - 18°N (214.29 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 25 °C (73.4 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Tank Requirements

The Fairy Cichlid (Neolamprologus brichardi) thrives in a setup that closely resembles its natural habitat. These fish originate from Lake Tanganyika in Africa, where the water is hard, alkaline, and slightly warm. Therefore, maintaining a pH range of 7.6-8.9 and water hardness between 12-18°N (214.29-321.43 ppm) is essential. The ideal temperature range for these cichlids is 23-25°C (73.4-77°F).

A tank of at least 75 liters (20 gallons) is recommended for a pair, with additional space required for any extra individuals to ensure they have room to form territories. Providing plenty of rocks, caves, and crevices will help mimic their natural environment and give them secure hiding spots. These structures also serve as breeding sites, enhancing their comfort in the aquarium. Using a sand or fine gravel substrate is ideal, as it closely resembles the lake bed of their native habitat. An efficient filtration system is crucial to maintain pristine water quality, as these cichlids are sensitive to pollutants. Regular partial water changes are advised to keep the tank conditions stable.

Tankmates

Fairy Cichlids are best kept in species-specific tanks due to their unique social structure and territorial behavior. However, they can coexist with other peaceful cichlids from Lake Tanganyika if the tank is large enough to provide adequate territories for each species. Suitable tankmates include:

• Marlieri cichlid (Julidochromis marlieri)
• Cyprichromis leptosoma
• Altolamprologus calvus

It’s important to monitor the interactions between tankmates, as Fairy Cichlids can become highly territorial, especially during breeding periods. Providing ample hiding spots and territories can help reduce aggression and promote peaceful coexistence.

Food and Feeding

In the wild, Fairy Cichlids are omnivorous and feed on crustaceans, invertebrates, and plankton. In captivity, they accept a variety of foods. A balanced diet should include high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia. Feeding them a mix of protein-rich foods and vegetable matter ensures they receive all necessary nutrients.

Feed them small amounts two to three times daily, making sure they consume the food within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and water pollution. Offering occasional treats of live or frozen foods helps enhance their coloration and overall health. Avoid large, hard foods that can be difficult for them to digest.

Sexing

Sexing Fairy Cichlids can be challenging. Males are generally slightly larger with longer and more pointed anal, dorsal, and caudal fins. Females are smaller, more timid, and may appear rounder when viewed from above, particularly during the breeding season.

Breeding

Fairy Cichlids form monogamous pairs and are known for their exceptional parenting skills. They are substrate spawners, often choosing rock crevices or caves to lay their eggs. After spawning, both parents guard the eggs and fry, and juvenile offspring from previous batches often help in protecting the new generation, forming a complex social structure.

The fry absorb their yolk sacs within a few days and can then be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes. It is not uncommon for the parents to continue caring for their young even as they grow, resulting in a well-organized family group. Providing multiple hiding spots and breeding sites in the tank will support this natural behavior.

Lifespan

With proper care, the Fairy Cichlid can live for approximately 8-10 years, making them a long-term commitment for aquarists.

Origin

Fairy Cichlids are native to the northern regions of Lake Tanganyika in Africa. The lake's unique water chemistry, including high alkalinity and mineral content, has shaped the specific requirements of this species in captivity.

Short Description

Neolamprologus brichardi, commonly known as the Fairy Cichlid, is renowned for its unique breeding behavior and complex social structure. Unlike many other cichlid species, they exhibit cooperative breeding, with juveniles from previous batches aiding in the care and protection of new offspring. This behavior makes them fascinating to observe in a well-maintained species tank.

These cichlids are characterized by their elongated body and delicate fin extensions, giving them an elegant appearance. They prefer aquariums that provide ample rock formations and caves, which mimic their natural habitat and serve as breeding and hiding spots. Due to their territorial nature, they are best kept in a species-specific tank or with other peaceful cichlids from Lake Tanganyika.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk