NEOLAMPROLOGUS CYLINDRICUS
 
Common Name: Cylindricus Cichlid, Cylindrical Cichlid
Scientific Name: Neolamprologus cylindricus
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
 
SPECIES OVERVIEW
Neolamprologus cylindricus is a striking Lake Tanganyika cichlid recognised by its elongated body, dark coloration and contrasting white vertical bars. It is an active and intelligent species that spends much of its time exploring rockwork and defending a territory.
Although relatively small compared with many African cichlids, this species can be quite territorial and aggressive, particularly when breeding. It is best suited to a dedicated Lake Tanganyika aquarium with plenty of rockwork and clearly defined territories.
 
CARE REQUIREMENTS
Minimum Aquarium Size: 150 Litres
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Territorial
Water Level: Bottom to Mid-Level
Diet: Carnivore / Omnivore
Activity: Active
Social Behaviour: Territorial; best kept as a compatible pair or with carefully selected tankmates
 
WATER PARAMETERS
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 7.8–9.0
Hardness: Hard to Very Hard
Maintain stable, alkaline water conditions with good filtration and regular water changes.
 
AQUARIUM SETUP
Provide plenty of rocks, caves, crevices and other structures that allow the fish to establish and defend territories.
Rockwork should be arranged securely, as these fish may dig around the base of rocks and decorations.
A sandy substrate is ideal and helps replicate their natural Lake Tanganyika environment.
Good filtration and strong oxygenation are recommended.
 
DIET & FEEDING
Neolamprologus cylindricus is primarily carnivorous and should be offered a varied, protein-rich diet.
Suitable foods include:
• High-quality cichlid pellets
• Sinking carnivore pellets
• Frozen bloodworms
• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• Krill
• Other suitable aquatic invertebrates
Feed small portions regularly and avoid overfeeding.
 
TANKMATES
Due to their territorial nature, tankmates should be selected carefully.
Suitable tankmates may include appropriately sized Lake Tanganyika cichlids that occupy different areas of the aquarium and can tolerate similar water conditions.
Avoid very small, timid species and overly aggressive cichlids that may result in constant territorial conflict.
 
GROUP SIZE
Neolamprologus cylindricus is not a schooling species. They are generally best kept as a compatible pair or as part of a carefully planned Tanganyika community.
When kept with multiple specimens, provide plenty of rockwork and visual barriers so individuals can establish separate territories.
 
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Neolamprologus cylindricus can reach approximately 12–15 cm in length and should be provided with adequate territory as it matures.
Aggression can increase significantly during breeding. Providing multiple caves and clearly separated territories can help reduce conflict.
This species is a mouthbrooding? No — Neolamprologus cylindricus is a substrate-spawning cichlid, laying eggs in caves or other sheltered locations.
With the correct alkaline water conditions, secure rockwork, suitable tankmates and a varied diet, Neolamprologus cylindricus makes an impressive addition to a dedicated Lake Tanganyika aquarium.