Species profile
Lelupi Cichlid
Neolamprologus leleupi
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
180 L minimum aquarium
8–10 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Bright orange Tanganyikan rock cichlid with strong conspecific aggression and a relatively weak pair bond.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–26 °C
pH
8–9
GH
15–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
2.2
Territorial around caves and rock faces. Compatible pairs can breed, but adults may not tolerate each other continuously; provide multiple retreats and escape routes.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Invertivore
Minimum aquarium volume
180 L
Minimum footprint
100 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Neolamprologus leleupi
Alternative names
Lelupi Cichlid, Lemon Cichlid, Neolamprologus leleupi
Native range
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, East Africa.
Natural habitat
Rocky habitat with cracks/recesses. Use hard alkaline Tanganyika water and a dense network of secure rock caves.
Diet & feeding
Feeds on small aquatic invertebrates. Offer quality carnivorous cichlid foods and appropriately sized frozen invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are usually larger; otherwise sexual dimorphism is limited and venting/breeding behaviour gives better confirmation.
Breeding
Cave spawner. The female deposits eggs inside a cavity and brood defence follows; pair bonds are not as stable as in some Julidochromis.