African Cichlid: Lemon

The Lemon Cichlid Neolamprologus leleupi is a beautiful African cichlid from Lake Tanganyika with a fairly peaceful demeanor. Yellow colored fish are more of a rarity in freshwater aquariums, making this handsome cichlid highly sought after.This cichlid can vary wildly in its coloration, ranging from a bright yellow to a deep brown, depending on its place of origination.

Size and Lifespan

It is a relatively small cichlid, with males reaching just shy of 4 inches and females being slightly smaller at just 3 1/2 inches. With its personality and brilliant coloring it makes a beautiful addition to a mixed species aquarium. With proper care, they will live between 8-10 years!

Tank Size and Requirements

We recommend a tank that is 30 gallons for a pair of these beautiful fish, with larger tanks recommended for groups or mixed species. Being of a more peaceful disposition than a lot of cichlids, they are great for a peaceful Lake Tanganyika community environment. They mostly just mind their own business. They can be kept in pairs or in groups and are generally peaceful toward those of the same species.

Diet

Since they are carnivores, the Lemon Cichlid needs protein foods. In the wild they eat zoobenthic organisms, aquatic insects, and copepods. To keep a good balance give them a high quality flake food or pellet everyday. Regularly supplement these foods with brine shrimp (either live or frozen), cyclops, or daphnia. Live protein foods high in carotene, such as mysis, help promote its beautiful coloring.