Neolamprologus caudopunctatus 'Kapembwa'

Neolamprologus caudopunctatus 'Kapembwa' hails from a collecting site near Kapembwa in Zambia and is one of the more attractively marked members of the caudopunctatus species group. The body is silver-white liberally spangled with small blue iridescent spots, while the pelvic and lower caudal fins blaze with yellow-orange — a combination that rivals many reef fish in intensity.

In the wild, caudopunctatus occupies sandy or mixed-substrate areas in the shallows, using empty shells for shelter and spawning. Unlike the smallest shell dwellers, the male does not physically carry his shell but anchors his territory to a shell cluster and defends it against rivals. The species is moderately territorial but considerably less aggressive than many Lamprologines.

Keep this species in a 60 L or larger aquarium with a fine sand floor, scattered shells, and a few flat rocks for additional cover. Water quality must be immaculate; good filtration and regular water changes are non-negotiable. Pairs form readily and breed with little encouragement once settled.

Water: pH 7.8–9.0, GH 12–20, KH 8–16, temperature 24–27 °C; pristine water quality critical. Tank: 60 L minimum for a pair; fine sand substrate; several shells plus flat rocks for cover. Feeding: High-quality cichlid micro pellets; frozen Artemia, Mysis, and Cyclops; feed twice daily. Breeding: Shell-spawner; female guards clutch; male defends territory; fry accept Artemia nauplii after hatching. Compatibility: Peaceful relative to most Lamprologines; can be kept with shell-free Tanganyika species of similar size.