Neolamprologus caudopunctatus 'Muzi'

Neolamprologus caudopunctatus 'Muzi' is collected from the area around the Muzi River delta on the Tanzanian coast of Lake Tanganyika. This population displays the vivid combination of blue iridescent spots on silver-white flanks and blazing orange pelvic fins that defines the caudopunctatus group, with the Muzi form noted for particularly dense spotting that gives the fish a gem-studded appearance in good lighting.

Caudopunctatus populations from different Tanzanian and Zambian localities are sometimes maintained as separate collection forms by specialist breeders, and the Muzi variant is gaining recognition in the hobby as one of the more attractive Tanzanian forms. In behaviour it is indistinguishable from other caudopunctatus populations: a monogamous pair occupies a shell-centred territory on sandy substrate, spawning inside the shell with the female providing solo brood care.

For best results keep the Muzi form as a dedicated species tank pair or trio in a 60 L or larger aquarium with fine sand, scattered shells, and immaculate water quality. The intensity of the orange pelvic fins and blue spotting is directly related to water clarity and diet; regular water changes and a protein-rich frozen food diet are the keys to maintaining this population at its most spectacular.

Water: pH 7.8–9.0, GH 12–20, KH 8–16, temperature 24–27 °C; very low nitrates for maximum colour. Tank: 60 L; fine sand; 3–5 shells; excellent filtration; moderate flow. Feeding: Frozen Artemia, Mysis, Cyclops; colour-enhancing cichlid pellets; twice daily. Breeding: Shell-spawner; female broods solo; male defends territory; fry accept Artemia nauplii. Compatibility: Species tank or with open-water Cyprichromis; avoid mixing with other caudopunctatus populations.