Lepidiolamprologus profundicola

Lepidiolamprologus profundicola is a deepwater species adapted to the dimly lit, cooler intermediate zones of Lake Tanganyika below 20 metres. Its sleek, elongated silver body with subtle blue-grey iridescence is built for open-water pursuit predation; it hunts small fish and invertebrates with speed and precision rather than the ambush tactics of some related species.

In captivity profundicola requires a large, well-filtered aquarium with excellent oxygenation and a temperature at the lower end of the Tanganyika range (23–26 °C). It is not compatible with small fish or invertebrates, which will be eaten, and its tank must be spacious enough that the fish can exercise properly. Despite its predatory nature it is not territorial in the typical Lamprologine sense when not breeding.

This species is one for the specialist: rarely available, challenging to feed adequately, and demanding with respect to tank size and water quality. It rewards dedicated keepers with a strikingly handsome, fast-moving display fish unlike anything else in the Tanganyika hobby.

Water: pH 7.8–9.0, GH 10–20, KH 8–16, temperature 23–26 °C; high oxygenation and strong filtration essential. Tank: 200 L minimum; open swimming space; rock structure for caves; no small fish. Feeding: Frozen Mysis, Lancetfish, earthworms; meaty carnivore pellets; twice daily. Breeding: Cave-spawner; female guards; large fry accept Artemia nauplii and small Mysis from the start. Compatibility: Advanced keepers only; large robust cichlids as tankmates; no fish under 8 cm.