Princess Cichlid

Adults of this cichlid reach a length of 5–6 cm. Their bodies are light-colored with a delicate, barely noticeable dark pigment. A characteristic feature is their elongated, lyre-shaped tail. The weak expression of sexual dimorphism makes it difficult to distinguish males from females.

The species is endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. In nature, the fish inhabit shallow, rocky coastal areas, where they stay among rock formations and crevices. Typical biotopes are characterized by hard, alkaline water with high dissolved oxygen content and stable parameters, corresponding to the lake's conditions.

This species is conditionally peaceful and can live in large groups. Nevertheless, during spawning, males will inevitably compete with each other for territory and may also show aggression towards other inhabitants. In a spacious aquarium, such behavior will be minimized. At other times, this species successfully coexists with other fish of similar size that can adapt to similar keeping conditions.

For keeping a single pair of fish, a tank of 70 liters or more is suitable. As decorative elements, it is recommended to use a sand substrate, as well as rock formations or rocky outcrops to form caves, crevices, and other suitable shelters. Live plants are not an essential decorative element. Successful keeping of the Princess Cichlid is possible provided that the water is maintained in a very clean state and with high values of hydrochemical parameters pH and GH. To ensure the necessary water quality, in addition to weekly water changes (20–25% of the total volume) with fresh water, an effective filtration system will be required. Furthermore, it is important to regularly clean the substrate of accumulated organic waste.

The diet of these fish should primarily consist of meaty foods, such as live or frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp. In addition, vegetable flakes can be offered. To ensure a balanced diet, it is recommended to use specialized high-protein foods from reputable manufacturers.

This species is monogamous: the fish form a pair that remains together for a long time. It is important to note that not every male and female pair is compatible – they are quite selective in their choice. Consequently, the larger the group size, the higher the probability of successful pair formation. At the beginning of the breeding season, the pair retreats to their chosen refuge, be it a cave or grotto, which is then actively defended from both conspecifics and other fish. Inside this shelter, the female lays a small number of eggs, and after their fertilization, she remains near them at the entrance to the cave while the male patrols the surrounding territory. The incubation period lasts 2–3 days, and within a week, the fry begin to move freely. The young may remain under parental care until they reach sexual maturity or until the pair starts a new clutch.

The main cause of most diseases in Lake Tanganyika cichlids is unsuitable keeping conditions and poor-quality food, which often leads, for example, to African Bloat. At the first symptoms, it is necessary first to check the water parameters and ensure there are no high concentrations of dangerous substances such as ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. If the readings deviate from the norm, they should be brought into order, and only then should treatment begin. More detailed information on symptoms and treatment methods is available in the “Aquarium Fish Diseases” section.

When choosing, preference should be given to active individuals with clean fins and no visible body damage. In the store, the fish should show natural curiosity and not appear emaciated. It is important to avoid specimens with signs of apathy, damaged gill covers, or an unnatural film on their scales, as this may indicate stress or hidden diseases.