Altolamprologus

Altolamprologus is a small genus of cichlids endemic to Lake Tanganyika, east Africa, with only two species. Both species are laterally compressed cichlids which prey primarily on invertebrates, though will also consume fry of other fish. The species both inhabit areas of the lake with large amounts of rock; they can be found most frequently in water 6.56 ““ 32.8 ft (2 – 10 m) deep. Some authors (eg: Konings, 1998) include Neolamprologus fasciatus in the genus Altolamprologus.

Altolamprologus calvus

A. calvus (Poll, 1978) is a cichlid endemic to the southern shoreline of Lake Tanganyika in east Africa. The species has an extremely laterally compressed body and a high dorsal fin. Males may grow to 5 in (13 cm), while females are normally smaller.

In the aquarium

Altolamprologus species are not difficult to keep, if given the standard Lake Tanganyika water parameters. The species can be a challenge to breed for the novice. It is a very slow-growing species that can take two years to grow from 1 in (2.5 cm) to sexual maturity. The fish are both cave spawners and will spawn under terracotta pot saucers or in shells.