Neolamprologus brevis 'Sumbu'

Neolamprologus brevis 'Sumbu' is one of the most charming shell-dwelling cichlids available to the hobbyist, collected from the sandy shallows around the Sumbu peninsula in Zambia. Males are noticeably larger than females and stake out a territory centred on a single Neothauma shell, which they defend with surprising ferocity despite their diminutive size.

In captivity this species thrives in a dedicated species tank or alongside other calm Tanganyika sand-dwellers. Provide a bed of fine white sand at least 5 cm deep and scatter several empty Neothauma or escargot shells — at least three per fish — to allow every individual a refuge. The male courts females by displaying at the shell entrance, quivering and extending his fins.

Breeding occurs readily once the pair settles; fry emerge from the shell after roughly ten days and the female guards them closely while the male defends the broader territory. Offer a varied diet of small frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia, and Cyclops to maintain peak colouration and breeding condition.

Water: Hard, alkaline water — pH 7.8–9.0, GH 10–20, KH 8–16, temperature 24–27 °C; perform weekly 20–25 % water changes. Tank: Minimum 40 L with 5 cm fine sand substrate and at least 3 shells per fish; minimal planting, open sandy floor essential. Feeding: Accepts high-quality micro pellets and frozen Artemia, Daphnia, and Cyclops; feed small portions twice daily. Breeding: Spawns inside shell; female guards fry, male guards territory; remove other species during fry-rearing period. Compatibility: Keep as a pair or harem (1 male : 2–3 females) with non-competing Tanganyika species such as Cyprichromis; avoid other shell dwellers in small tanks.