Neolamprologus calliurus

Neolamprologus calliurus is named for its beautifully decorated tail fin, which in mature males is adorned with rows of iridescent blue spots on a warm amber background. The species inhabits sandy and mixed-substrate shallows throughout much of Lake Tanganyika and is well established in European and North American hobbyist circles.

The social structure is a classic shell-dweller harem: one dominant male controls a territory containing several females, each of which maintains exclusive ownership of her own shell. Spawning occurs inside the female's shell and she alone cares for eggs and fry, while the male aggressively chases rival males from the territory boundaries.

Calliurus is slightly larger than N. brevis and benefits from a somewhat larger tank — 60 L minimum for a trio. Provide at least four to six shells (Neothauma, escargot, or apple-snail sized) and a fine sand substrate of at least 5 cm. The species readily accepts high-quality dry foods supplemented with frozen invertebrates.

Water: pH 7.8–9.0, GH 10–20, KH 8–16, temperature 24–27 °C; stable chemistry is essential. Tank: 60 L for a trio; fine sand 5 cm+; 4–6 shells per tank; low to no planting needed. Feeding: Micro pellets as staple; supplement with frozen Artemia, Cyclops, and Daphnia; twice daily. Breeding: Harem spawner; female incubates in shell; fry free-swimming in ~10 days; raise on Artemia nauplii. Compatibility: Keep with dissimilar Tanganyikans; never mix with other shell-dwelling cichlid species in small aquaria.