NEOLAMPROLOGUS LELEUPI WILD CAUGHT

The Neolamprologus leleupi, commonly known as the Orange Leleupi Cichlid, is a strikingly colorful cichlid native to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika in Africa. Known for its bright orange or yellow hues, this species is a favorite among aquarists for its bold coloration and interesting behaviors. Despite its beauty, it requires specific conditions to thrive and can exhibit territorial behavior.

Quick Overview

Scientific Name	Neolamprologus leleupi
Common Names	Orange Leleupi Cichlid, Lemon Cichlid
Family	Cichlidae
Origin	Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Size	3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm)
Lifespan	8–10 years
Temperament	Semi-aggressive, territorial
Diet	Carnivorous

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size:
  • A 30-gallon tank minimum for a pair or single individual. For a community setup, a 55-gallon tank or larger is recommended to accommodate territories.
• Tank Setup:
  • Substrate: Fine sand or aragonite-based substrate to maintain alkalinity.
  • Decor: Provide plenty of rocks, caves, and crevices for hiding and territory establishment.
  • Plants: Use hardy plants like Anubias or Java Fern, secured to rocks to withstand potential digging.
• Filtration and Water Flow:
  • Strong filtration is necessary to maintain excellent water quality. Moderate water flow mimics their natural environment.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76°F–82°F (24°C–28°C)
• pH: 7.8–9.0 (alkaline)
• Hardness: Hard water (10–20 dGH)
• Water Quality:
  • Maintain pristine water conditions with weekly 25–30% water changes.
  • Avoid ammonia or nitrite spikes, and keep nitrates low (<20 ppm).

Diet

The Orange Leleupi is a carnivore, primarily feeding on small invertebrates in the wild.

• Staple Foods:
  • High-quality pellets or granules formulated for carnivorous cichlids.
• Live/Frozen Foods:
  • Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and cyclops.
• Occasional Treats:
  • Finely chopped krill or mysis shrimp.
• Feeding Frequency:
  • Feed 1–2 times daily, offering only what they can consume within a few minutes.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament:
  • Semi-aggressive and territorial, particularly during breeding.
  • Best kept with similarly sized, non-aggressive Tanganyikan cichlids.
• Tankmates:
  • Suitable companions include:
    • Julidochromis
    • Altolamprologus
    • Cyprichromis
    • Avoid overly aggressive or much larger fish.
• Social Structure:
  • Can be kept singly, in pairs, or in a community tank with ample hiding spaces to reduce territorial disputes.

Breeding

Breeding Neolamprologus leleupi is relatively straightforward with the right setup.

1. Sexing:
   • Males are typically larger, with more pointed dorsal and anal fins.
   • Females are smaller and rounder.
2. Breeding Setup:
   • Use a dedicated 20-gallon breeding tank with flat rocks and caves for spawning.
   • Maintain water at the higher end of their temperature range (80°F–82°F / 26°C–28°C).
3. Spawning Behavior:
   • Males court females by displaying vibrant colors.
   • Females lay eggs inside caves or crevices, which the male fertilizes.
4. Parental Care:
   • Both parents guard the eggs and fry, though aggression may increase during this time.
5. Fry Care:
   • Feed fry with infusoria, transitioning to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Common Challenges

1. Aggression:
   • Territorial disputes can occur in small tanks or with inadequate hiding spaces.
2. Water Sensitivity:
   • Sensitive to poor water quality and parameter fluctuations.
3. Dietary Needs:
   • Avoid overfeeding or feeding unsuitable foods like flakes designed for herbivores.

Care Summary

Aspect	Details
Tank Size	Minimum 30 gallons for a pair
Water Parameters	76°F–82°F, pH 7.8–9.0, hard water
Diet	Carnivorous; pellets, live/frozen foods
Temperament	Semi-aggressive; territorial
Lifespan	8–10 years

The Neolamprologus leleupi “Orange” is a stunning addition to a Lake Tanganyika-themed aquarium. Its vivid coloration and unique behaviors make it a standout choice for experienced aquarists who can provide the specific water conditions and space it requires.