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Altolamprologus compressiceps var. Gold Head


Order: Cichliformes;
Family: Cichlidae;
Genus: Altolamprologus;
Species and synonyms: Compressiceps (Altolamprologus compressiceps, Lamprologus compressiceps, Neolamprologus compressiceps, Compressiceps Cichlid).

GBIF: Altolamprologus compressiceps (Boulenger, 1898)

Altolamprologus compressiceps is a species of predatory ray-finned fish from the order Cichliformes, family Cichlidae, genus Altolamprologus.

Distribution. Altolamprologus compressiceps is endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It is found throughout the lake, but most often in its southern part, near rocky shores and in deep areas with rocky bottoms. It prefers to stay at depths from 5 to 30 meters, hiding in rock crevices and between stones. In some areas of the lake, it forms local populations that differ in coloration.

Care requirements. Altolamprologus compressiceps is one of the most recognizable cichlids of Tanganyika due to its strongly laterally compressed body shape and large head. For keeping a pair or a small group, an aquarium of 120 liters is recommended, for a group of 6–8 specimens — from 200 liters. Numerous shelters made of stones, driftwood and ceramic pots are required. Optimal water parameters, typical of Lake Tanganyika: temperature 24–27°C, hardness 12–20 dGH, pH 7.5–9.0. Powerful filtration and weekly water changes of 20–30% are necessary. Compressiceps are predators, feeding on live and frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, shrimp, small fish (fry, guppies). Adults are fed 1–2 times a day in small portions. Males grow up to 12–15 cm, females — up to 8–10 cm. Males are significantly larger, more brightly colored and have a higher dorsal fin. Sexual dimorphism is well expressed: females are smaller and have a more rounded abdomen.

Altolamprologus compressiceps are monogamous fish that form stable pairs. For spawning, they prefer secluded places: caves or narrow crevices between rocks. The female lays eggs (up to 100–200 eggs) on the walls of the shelter, and the male fertilizes them. Incubation lasts 2–3 weeks. The parents care for the eggs and fry until they begin to swim independently. Fry start with brine shrimp nauplii and small zooplankton. Breeding in an aquarium is possible when suitable conditions are created, but the fry grow slowly.

Altolamprologus compressiceps has many color variations, the most famous of which is "Kigoma" (Altolamprologus compressiceps "Kigoma"), distinguished by a golden-red coloration. The recognizability of the compressiceps is also emphasized by its hunting strategy: due to its specific body shape, it is able to freeze in the water column, waiting for prey, and make lightning-fast lunges. Due to its exotic appearance and interesting behavior, the compressiceps is deservedly popular among aquarists specializing in Tanganyika cichlids.

Altolamprologus sp. compressiceps shell (Sumbu Shell morph). An independent dwarf species (up to 5–6 cm). Uses empty shells of Neothauma snails for living and breeding. Inhabits Sumbu Bay (Zambia).