Chalinochromis popelini

Chalinochromis popelini closely resembles C. brichardi in body plan and general colouration but displays a subtly different and more contrasting stripe pattern along the lateral line. It inhabits similar rocky-shore environments in Lake Tanganyika and is maintained in captivity by specialist breeders.

Behaviourally, C. popelini mirrors C. brichardi in its cave-spawning reproductive strategy and strong biparental care. The species is less commonly available than brichardi but increasingly accessible through European cichlid breeders.

Husbandry is essentially identical to C. brichardi: a rocky aquarium of moderate size, standard Tanganyika water chemistry, and an omnivorous diet. C. popelini integrates well into mixed Tanganyika communities.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 7.8–9.0, GH 10–18, KH 8–16; clean alkaline water; standard Tanganyika parameters. Tank: 120 L minimum; rocky caves and crevices; decorate to provide territories for breeding pair. Feeding: Quality flake and cichlid pellets; accepts frozen Mysis and bloodworm; undemanding feeder. Breeding: Cave spawner; both parents guard; clutches of 30–80 eggs; fry grow steadily. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive around breeding site; good community fish with Julidochromis, Neolamprologus, Altolamprologus.