Brichardi Cichlid

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment8–10 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Parasites

The Brichardi or Fairy Cichlid (Neolamprologus brichardi), long sold as the Princess of Burundi, comes from the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika and reaches about 9 to 12 cm including its trailing fin filaments. Its social system is what makes it remarkable: young from earlier spawns stay with the parents and help guard and raise later broods, so an established group is a genuine extended family with several generations sharing one rock pile. Start with a pair or a group of six juveniles in 150 litres or more at 24-27C, pH 8.0 to 9.0, hard buffered water, over rockwork with many caves. Feed frozen cyclops, mysis, brine shrimp and small quality pellets. Care is easy and it breeds readily, which is where the honesty is needed: a successful colony expands until it dominates the tank, and a breeding group will drive other bottom-dwelling fish out of the entire lower half. Plan for a species tank or pair it with mid-water Tanganyikans such as Cyprichromis, and decide in advance what happens to the surplus young.

• How active is a Brichardi Cichlid?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Brichardi Cichlid need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Brichardi Cichlid need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Brichardi Cichlid a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Brichardi Cichlid live?

  8–10 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Brichardi Cichlid?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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