Neolamprologus Brichardi

The Fairy Cichlid is widely distributed throughout the northern half of Lake Tanganyika, where it favours shallow, sediment-rich rocky habitats. Here, these elegant fish form large aggregations (hundreds of fish) which forage for food together, although when of breeding age, they form monogamous pairs. The aquarium that houses this species should ideally be at least 4ft long if housing other species, with a good amount of filtration, water movement and oxygenation. The best choice of substrate would be sand and the watermust be hard and alkaline. Rocks should be used to create small outcrops, ensuring that there are ample visual barriers. Fairy Cichlids can be aggressive towards one another in the confines of the home aquarium, so broken lines of sight amongst the decor will help. These cichlids can be maintained in a species-only aquarium or as part of a Tanganyikan community with fish of similar temperament. Combining Fairy Cichlids with other species does not always work in the long run, as their breeding strategy of producing large numbers with generations of juveniles defending their burgeoning family and ever-growing home territory, will eventually leave no room for outsiders unless the aquarium is thoughtfully planned. This fish gives its name to the 'brichardi complex' of similar species such as gracilis, pulcher and olivaceous which share behavioural traits.