Lepidiolamprologus kendalli

Lepidiolamprologus kendalli is a sleek, fast-moving predator within tribe Lamprologini. Its slender build, scaled cheeks, and bold lateral stripe mark it as a specialised hunter, actively chasing smaller fish and invertebrates along rocky littoral zones rather than waiting in ambush like Altolamprologus.

This species has been maintained in captivity and is occasionally available through specialist breeders. It requires a robust setup with extensive rockwork and should not be housed with any fish small enough to be eaten. It tends toward aggression with its own kind outside of breeding pairs.

Despite its predatory nature, L. kendalli is an active and attractive display fish that brings dynamism to a large Tanganyika rocky-shore aquarium.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 7.8–9.0, GH 10–18, KH 8–16; standard Tanganyika rocky-shore parameters. Tank: 250 L minimum; extensive rockwork with caves and crevices; secure lid — this species can jump. Feeding: Cichlid pellets; frozen shrimp, krill, and whitebait; occasional live feeder shrimp. Breeding: Cave spawner; pair bonds formed; female guards eggs and fry in cave. Compatibility: Aggressive toward small fish; house with robust, similarly sized Tanganyika species only.