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Caudopunctatus Cichlid
Neolamprologus caudopunctatus
📍 Lake Tanganyika
Neolamprologus caudopunctatus is a small, peaceful cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika, known for its subtle spotted pattern along the tail and body. This species is ideal for aquarists seeking a less aggressive cichlid option that still displays interesting territorial and breeding behaviors. They are excellent for community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish and invertebrates.
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Care Guide
Diet
Feed a varied diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworms, and small crustaceans 2-3 times daily. This species prefers protein-rich foods and will occasionally consume vegetable matter. Juveniles should be fed more frequently than adults.
Behavior
Caudopunctatus cichlids are relatively peaceful for cichlids but display territorial behavior, especially during breeding. They are bottom-dwellers that spend much time foraging and exploring rocky substrates. They are generally compatible with other small, peaceful species and show interesting social dynamics within their own species.
Breeding
These cichlids are substrate spawners that breed readily in captivity when provided with caves or crevices. Breeding pairs become highly territorial and protective of fry. Provide separate breeding tanks or heavily decorated main tanks with multiple hiding spots to reduce aggression toward other inhabitants.
Tank Mates
Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy different water zones
Bottom-dwelling algae eater that is non-aggressive and compatible
Generally safe but may be preyed upon if cichlid is hungry
Can be eaten; best in heavily planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots
Hard-shelled snails are generally ignored by this species
Small, peaceful fish that coexist well in community settings
Common Diseases
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects
Increase water temperature to 28-30 C (82-86 F), perform daily water changes, use aquarium salt or commercial ich treatment; maintain good water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Perform frequent water changes, improve water quality, use antibiotic medication if severe; ensure proper nutrition and reduce stress
Bloat (Malawi Bloat)
Swollen abdomen, loss of appetite, difficulty swimming, pale coloration
Perform large water changes, feed high-quality foods, use medicated food; may require antibiotics in severe cases
Hole-in-the-Head Disease
Pits or holes in head region, loss of appetite, behavioral changes
Improve water quality with frequent changes, enhance diet with vitamin supplements, use metronidazole if parasitic; ensure adequate nutrition
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Quick Facts
- diet
- omnivore with carnivorous preference
- lifespan
- 8-10 years
- max size
- 9 cm (3.5 in)
- tank size
- 20 gallons minimum
- temperament
- semi-aggressive
Water it likes
- ph
- 7.5-8.5
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 10-20 dGH
- temperature
- 75–81°F (24–27°C)