Neolamprologus leleupi is an extremely colorful cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, what cichlids aren’t colorful from Africa. Well frankly their all beautiful but the lemon cichlid or Lamprologus leleupi as it was formerly called is something special. These smaller sized cichlids are typically available in a gorgeous yellow or orange color which is primarily solid given its namesake.

Mostly endemic to Lake Tanganyika Africa this species has been recorded throughout the entire east coast and it is not uncommon to be found at near 40 meters depth where it is relatively abundant. It should be noted that the lemon cichlid Neolamprologus leleupi is listed on the IUCN as endangered species but flagged as least threat overall but with a major threat of sedimentation.

 

N. leleupi as stated is a smaller cichlid so it’s typical to see them reach four inches in length. They look just fantastic in a community tank especially in small groups where they thrive as recess dwellers. This species inhabits cracks and crevices in the wild and feeds on invertebrates so it’s important to recreate a biotype consistent with Lake Tanganyika to provide a sense of security. The lemon cichlid are substrate spawners and both parents look after their fry. Spawning can best be obtained by working with a small group of six specimens and allowing them to naturally pair off. Check out the Neolamprologus leleupi breeding video below which is awesome, look at their brilliant colors.