Compressiceps Cichlid

• ExerciseLow

  A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• 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.

• Commitment8–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

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

Altolamprologus compressiceps is the close relative of the calvus, reaching about 12 to 15 cm for males, with a deeper body, a shorter and blunter head and regional forms from gold and orange to almost black. Like the calvus it uses its compressed body and armoured scales to enter rock crevices after shrimp and small fish, and it approaches prey with slow, almost imperceptible movement before a sudden strike. Keep a pair or small group in 180 litres or more at 24-27C, pH 8.0 to 9.0, hard buffered water, over stacked rock with plenty of cracks and shells. Feed frozen mysis, krill, cyclops and quality pellets in small portions. Growth is slow and it takes two to three years to mature, so patience is part of the deal. It is peaceful with fish it cannot eat, holds a modest territory around one crevice, and works well with shell dwellers and Julidochromis in a Tanganyikan community, as long as nobody expects it to leave fry, shrimp or very small fish alone.

• How active is a Compressiceps Cichlid?

  Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• How much maintenance does a Compressiceps Cichlid need?

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

• What tank size does a Compressiceps Cichlid need?

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

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

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

• How long do Compressiceps Cichlid live?

  8–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Compressiceps 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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