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CichlidaeFreshwater Fishintermediate

Altolamprologus compressiceps Shell

Altolamprologus compressiceps

Origin: Lake Tanganyika

A

Water Parameters

Temperature24–27 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH8–8.5
49
GH (Hardness)12–20 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)8–18 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
12 cm
Min Tank
100 L
Lifespan
10
Swimming Level
bottom
Schooling
No
Diet
carnivore
Temperament
Territorial around shell; aggressive to similar species.

About

Altolamprologus compressiceps 'Shell' is a smaller, rounder-nosed relative of A. calvus that inhabits and defends snail shells in its native Lake Tanganyika. It spawns inside shells and defends a small territory around the shell cluster. This shell-dwelling behaviour is fascinating to observe in a dedicated Tanganyika biotope tank. The compressed body lets it enter shell openings that round-bodied cichlids cannot access.

Care Guide

pH 8.0–8.5. Provide empty snail shells (escargot/Neothauma). Pair or harem: 1M + 2–3F. Sandy/shell substrate. Tanganyika biotope setup ideal.

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