Altolamprologus
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 Altolamprologus calvus
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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, most frequently in water two to ten metres in depth. Some authors (eg: Konings, 1998) include Neolamprologus fasciatus in the genus Altolamprologus.
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[edit] 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 13 cm (5 inches), while females are normally smaller.
[edit] Altolamprologus compressiceps
Altolamprologus compressiceps (Boulenger, 1898) is physically similar to A. calvus, though it is deeper bodied and has a shorter snout than A. calvus.
[edit] In the aquarium
Altolamprologus species are not difficult to keep, if given the standard Lake Tanganyikan 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 2.5 cm (1 inch) to sexual maturity. The fish are both cave spawners and will spawn under terracotta pot saucers or in shells.
[edit] References
- Altolamprologus (TSN 648018). Integrated Taxonomic Information System. Accessed on 6 June 2006.
- Konings A (1998) Tanganyikan cichlids in their natural habitat. Cichlid Press.
