Neolamprologus brevis 'Kachese'

Neolamprologus brevis 'Kachese' originates from the Kachese area on the Zambian shoreline of Lake Tanganyika and is distinguished by a particularly strong blue iridescent sheen on the lateral scales of both sexes, which is noticeably more vivid than in many other brevis populations. The species is rarely exported in significant numbers, lending it a certain cachet among Tanganyika shell-dweller aficionados.

In behaviour and husbandry the Kachese form is identical to other N. brevis populations. The male defends a territory centred on a shell cluster, courts females to spawn inside their individual shells, and patrols against rival males. The female is solely responsible for direct brood care within the shell, emerging with free-swimming fry after approximately ten days.

Keep Kachese brevis in a species tank or with calm open-water Tanganyikans to fully appreciate the iridescent blue scaling. A white or light-coloured sand substrate and quality LED lighting will showcase the blue sheen to maximum effect. Water must be hard, alkaline, and stable, and a varied micro-food diet will maintain the fish in peak condition.

Water: pH 7.8–9.0, GH 10–18, KH 8–14, temperature 24–27 °C; hard and stable. Tank: 40 L; fine light-coloured sand; 3–4 shells per fish; bright LED lighting to showcase blue iridescence. Feeding: Frozen Artemia, Cyclops, Daphnia; micro pellets; twice daily. Breeding: Shell-spawner; female guards alone; male defends perimeter; fry accept Artemia nauplii. Compatibility: Species tank or with Cyprichromis; do not mix with other brevis populations.