Neolamprologus tretocephalus (Five -band neolamprologus)

The body of this species, elongated and slightly compressed laterally, is traversed by five vertical bars, a sixth current of the top of the head to the eye. The general coloring is beige. The fins are nicely colored with sky blue, with the exception of pectorals.

Neolamprologus tretocephalus is a fish from the Cichlidae family, originally from the alternative and shallow waters of Lake Tanganyika in Africa. It is a small fish, generally measuring between 3 and 4 cm in length. It has an elongated body and a very developed caudal fin, which allows it to quickly move into the water.

The neolamprologus tretocephalus is generally light gray or dark brown, with dark vertical stripes all over the body. His head is wide and rather flat, with two big eyes that allow him to see in all directions. His mouth is small and pointed, which allows him to easily capture small crustaceans and insects he finds in the lake bed.

Neolamprologus tretocephalus is a territorial fish, which lives as a couple or in a small group. Each couple has their own territory which he defends against other fish. The males are more aggressive than females and are often more territorial. Couples reproduce by digging a nest in the sand of the lake, in which the eggs are deposited and fertilized. Parents stay near the nest to protect eggs and fry until they are able to fend for themselves.

Neolamprologus tretocephalus is a popular fish in freshwater aquariums, due to its small size and beauty. It is generally easy to maintain, but it needs a well -equipped aquarium and a sandy substrate to dig its nest. It is also important to provide it with a varied diet, especially living or frozen food to allow it to maintain good health. In general, neolamprologus tretocephalus is a peaceful and pleasant fish to observe, which can be understood with other aquarium species if they are of similar size.

The sexes are difficult to differentiate before the first reproductions, where it is the sight of the spermitation or the oviduct which allows them to be recognized. The males have more tapered odd fins than females.

Relatively difficult for a cichlid, it takes place on hidden substrate. The care given to young people by their parents is admirable.