Lyretail Cichlid, scientifically known as Neolamprologus brichardi, is a unique freshwater fish. It comes from Lake Tanganyika in East Africa and lives in alkaline water.
People enjoy having this fish in their aquariums because of its beauty and interesting behavior.
Lyretail Cichlid is also known by several names like Princess Cichlid, Princess of Burundi, Fairy Cichlid, and Brichard’s Lamprologus.
This fish has been studied a lot because of its behavior. It’s related to another fish called N. pulcher which lives in the same lake. Some experts think both may actually be the same species.
Lyretail Cichlids eat plankton and are territorial when breeding.
In an aquarium, it’s best to keep them in pairs with at least 80 cm (31 inches) of space for them to swim around.
Lyretail Cichlid Interesting Facts
- Lyretail Cichlids, also known as Fairy Cichlids or Neolamprologus brichardi, come from Lake Tanganyika in East Africa and prefer alkaline water.
- These fish are closely related to N. pulcher species and some experts believe they may be the same.
- In aquariums, keep Lyretail Cichlids in pairs with at least 31 inches of swimming space.
- They grow up to 3.5 inches (9.0 centimeters) long.
Lyretail Cichlid Habitat
Lyretail Cichlid is native to the northern part of Lake Tanganyika in Africa. It lives in freshwater and prefers a pH range of 8.0 to 9.0, with water hardness between 9 to 19 dH.
The ideal temperature for this tropical fish is between 72°F to 77°F (22°C to 25°C). Its habitat location ranges from latitudes 3°S to 6°S.
| Water Temperature: | 72°F to 77°F (22°C to 25°C) |
| Water pH: | 8.0 to 9.0 pH |
| Water Hardness: | 9 to 19 dH |
Lyretail Cichlid Physical Characteristics
Size: 3.5 inches (9.0 centimeters)
Lyretail Cichlid grows up to 3.5 inches (9.0 centimeters) long.
Lyretail Cichlid Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Neolamprologus |
| Scientific Name: | Neolamprologus brichardi |
| Also Known As: | Lyretail Cichlid, Princess Cichlid, Princess of Burundi, Fairy Cichlid, Brichard’s Lamprologus |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |