More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 100 litres / 26.42 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 7.0cm / 2.76inches |
| Temperature | 24°C / 75.20°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 8-25ºdH |
| pH | 7.5-9.0 |
Behaviour
Neolamprologus Buescheri, known as the Striped Lamprologus, exhibits aggressive and territorial behavior, making it best suited for a species tank. However, in large tanks, it can coexist with other small to medium-sized Tanganyikan cichlids that occupy different tank areas. It is not recommended to keep them with shelldwellers but can potentially live with rock-dwelling species like Julidochromis or Altolamprologus if the tank is spacious with ample territories. They should not be housed with mbuna or larger species that may see them as prey. The presence of other species helps in reducing aggression, especially among dominant males. To minimize male harassment, it is advised to keep several females per male and preferably only one male unless the tank is significantly large.
Feeding and Diet
The Neolamprologus Buescheri, being somewhat finicky eaters, prefer a diet consisting primarily of live and frozen food varieties, with dried foods rarely being accepted.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Reproduction for this species is challenging due to the aggressive nature of dominant fish. They are cave spawners, and having a single male with multiple females is ideal for successful breeding. Subdominant males are likely to be eliminated until a single dominant male remains. Sexing them externally is difficult as there are no distinguishable visible characteristics between males and females. However, the aggressive behavior of males aids in easily identifying them over time.
Habitat and Distribution
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, Neolamprologus Buescheri is typically found in rocky shoreline habitats. Their distribution ranges from the western coast near Tembwe II to the eastern side at Samazi, covering the southern part of the lake.
Aquarium Setup
To mimic their natural habitat, it is crucial to have plenty of caves and hiding spots in the aquarium setup, with a significant portion of the tank dedicated to rockwork. A sandy substrate is recommended to recreate their native environment. Water conditions should ideally have a pH range of 7.5-9.0, a temperature range of 24-28°C, and a water hardness of 8-25°dH. An aquarium of at least 100 liters capacity is advised for housing these cichlids.