Lemon cichlid - Neolamprologus leleupi

Scientific name: Neolamprologus leleupi

Common name: Lemon cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 8 - 10 cm (3.15 - 3.94 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 7.6 - 8.9

Recommended water hardness: 18 - 30°N (321.43 - 535.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°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: aggressive/territorial

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Lemon cichlids are omnivorous and will thrive on a balanced diet of high-quality flakes or pellets. Because of their relatively large mouths, they can easily swallow pellets whole. To enrich their diet and enhance coloration, supplement with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Occasional vegetable matter can also be provided to improve digestion.

Origin

Neolamprologus leleupi is native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, where it inhabits rocky shorelines, caves, and crevices. The lake’s mineral-rich waters contribute to the hard, alkaline conditions that these fish require.

Sexing

Sexual dimorphism is subtle in this species. Males usually grow slightly larger and may display more vivid coloration, while females tend to remain smaller and rounder. Reliable sexing often requires observing breeding behavior rather than relying on visual traits alone.

Breeding

Lemon cichlids are cave spawners. To encourage breeding, add a group of juveniles and allow natural pair bonding. Once a pair forms, remove the other fish to prevent aggression. Provide caves, rock piles, or ceramic shelters for spawning sites. The female lays eggs inside the cave, where she remains hidden for several days until the fry hatch. Both parents guard the fry, which are slow-growing and require feeding with newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.

Lifespan

With proper care and stable water conditions, Neolamprologus leleupi can live up to 8 years in captivity.

Tank requirements

• Tank size: At least 100 liters for a pair, larger for communities.
• Water: Hard, alkaline water with pH 7.6–8.9 and hardness 18–30 °N.
• Scape: Provide plenty of rocks, caves, and crevices to mimic natural habitat and reduce aggression.
• Filtration: Strong biological and mechanical filtration to maintain high water quality.
• Maintenance: Weekly partial water changes (20–25%) are recommended to keep conditions stable.

Tankmates

Lemon cichlids are territorial, especially during spawning, but generally coexist well with other Tanganyikan cichlids of similar size, such as Altolamprologus and Julidochromis. Avoid very small or passive species, as they may be harassed. Always provide ample territories to reduce conflicts.

Color morphs

This species is best known for its striking bright yellow to orange coloration, but natural morphs exist, including grayish-tan and bluish forms. Tank-bred varieties are often more vividly colored.

Short description

The Lemon cichlid is one of the most iconic species from Lake Tanganyika. Its vivid coloration and relatively peaceful temperament make it a popular choice among Tanganyika enthusiasts. Despite old myths, regular water changes are not harmful to this species; on the contrary, they are essential for long-term health and breeding success.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.