The Neolamprologus Brevis Cichlid originates from the rocky coastal waters of Lake Tanganyika, Africa. This species is much smaller, only attaining a maximum size of 2-1/2 inches. They are one of the few shell dwelling species in which the male and female will share the same shell. Their bodies are elongated in shape and is brown in color with numerous vertical tan stripes.

The Neolamprologus Brevis Cichlid should be maintained in an aquarium of at least 30-gallons with other smaller Tanganyikan cichlids. Incorporate plenty of rocks, shells and African driftwood in order to build caves. Provide a sandy bottom comprised of aragonite to maintain the necessary high pH and alkalinity.

Picture Copyright Andrzej Zabawski

The Neolamprologus Brevis Cichlid is a shell spawner, and breeding is more difficult than most of the cichlids. At maturity, the males are typically larger than the females. Provide plenty empty shells for the female to lay their eggs. Incubation occurs in 3 to 4 days. This is one of the few species in which the parents will not protect the young after hatching. To increase their survival rates, relocate the young to a separate aquarium after hatching. Feed the fry newly hatched brine shrimp and finely crushed flake food.

Their diet should contain meaty items such as; blood worms, brine and mysis shrimp, carnivore flake and pellet foods.

Family: Cichlidae
Species: Neolamprologus brevis
Compatibility: Lake Tanganykan similar size African Cichlids and African Catfish
Tank Conditions: Neolamprologus brevis
Size: 2 1/2 in (6 cm)
Temperament: Aggressive
Diet: Carnivorous