{"product_id":"lamprologus-heliantus","title":"Lamprologus heliantus 3.5-4 cm | Tanganyikan Cichlid","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLamprologus heliantus\u003c\/strong\u003e is a compact and characterful cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, prized by aquarists for its distinctive look, territorial behaviour, and fascinating shell- or rock-associated lifestyle. Offered here at approximately \u003cstrong\u003e3.5-4 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e, these juveniles are a superb choice for keepers looking to build a specialist Tanganyikan aquarium with real personality.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs with many Tanganyikan cichlids, this species thrives in stable, hard, alkaline water and benefits from a carefully arranged aquascape that provides territories and visual barriers. It is best suited to aquarists with some experience of cichlid keeping, although it is not especially demanding when its water chemistry and tank layout are correct. In the right setup, \u003cem\u003eLamprologus heliantus\u003c\/em\u003e can be long-lived, engaging, and rewarding to observe.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll fish are supplied with our \u003cstrong\u003elive arrival guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e and dispatched using \u003cstrong\u003efast UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e, so your new fish arrive in the best possible condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCare at a Glance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAttribute\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDetails\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eScientific name\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cem\u003eLamprologus heliantus\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCommon name\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTanganyikan Lamprologus Cichlid\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdult size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUp to 8 cm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperament\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSemi-aggressive, territorial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCare level\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eModerate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMinimum tank size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e120 litres for a pair; larger for groups\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e23-27°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003epH\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7.5-8.5\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWater hardness\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHard to very hard (12-30 dGH)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiet\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarnivorous \/ meaty prepared foods, small frozen foods, quality cichlid pellets\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTank region\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBottom to middle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003ch2\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Natural Habitat\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLamprologus heliantus\u003c\/em\u003e originates from \u003cstrong\u003eLake Tanganyika\u003c\/strong\u003e in East Africa, one of the world’s oldest and most biologically diverse lakes. Tanganyikan cichlids have evolved in highly specialised niches, and this species is adapted to the lake’s mineral-rich, alkaline waters and complex shoreline habitats.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn nature, Lamprologus species are often associated with \u003cstrong\u003erocky areas, crevices, and shell beds\u003c\/strong\u003e, where they establish territories, feed on small invertebrates, and defend spawning sites. This natural behaviour is important to replicate in the aquarium. A tank with plenty of rockwork, broken lines of sight, and suitable substrate will help reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause Lake Tanganyika is stable and mineral-rich, this species does best in water that is not only warm and alkaline, but also clean and well oxygenated. Regular maintenance is essential, as Tanganyikan cichlids are sensitive to poor water quality and sudden parameter swings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTank Setup \u0026amp; Water Parameters\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eA well-planned aquarium is the key to success with \u003cem\u003eLamprologus heliantus\u003c\/em\u003e. A species tank or Tanganyikan community is ideal, with decor chosen to create territories rather than open swimming space alone. Use a sandy or fine gravel substrate and add plenty of rocks, caves, and hiding places. If you are keeping more than one fish, ensure there are multiple shelters so no individual can monopolise the whole tank.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRecommended water conditions are:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 23-27°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7.5-8.5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e 12-30 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eStrong filtration is important, as these fish appreciate high oxygen levels and pristine water. A good external filter or powerful internal filter is ideal, provided the flow is not so strong that it constantly disturbs the fish. Regular partial water changes of around 20-30% each week will help maintain stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen setting up the tank, think in terms of territories. Rock piles, slate caves, and shell clusters can all be useful depending on the behaviour of the individual fish. Avoid sharp decor and ensure any rock structures are stable and securely placed on the tank base, not on loose substrate, to prevent collapse. A lid is recommended, as cichlids can jump when startled.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor best results, keep water chemistry consistent. Tanganyikan cichlids do not appreciate soft, acidic water, and they should never be kept in uncycled or immature aquariums. A mature tank with stable biological filtration will give the best chance of long-term success.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFeeding Guide\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLamprologus heliantus\u003c\/em\u003e is primarily a carnivorous cichlid and should be fed a varied diet rich in protein. In the aquarium, it will usually accept high-quality cichlid pellets or granules designed for carnivorous species, along with frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, mysis, and chopped earthworm.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeed small portions once or twice daily, offering only what is eaten quickly. Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and digestive issues, particularly in a species that benefits from clean, well-maintained conditions. Variety is important, but avoid fatty foods and rely on reputable prepared diets as the staple.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eYoung fish may feed more eagerly and benefit from slightly more frequent meals, while adults should be kept on a controlled feeding regime to maintain condition. As with all cichlids, a balanced diet helps support colour, breeding readiness, and overall vitality.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTank Mates \/ Compatibility\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis species is best kept with other fish that can tolerate Tanganyikan water and understand cichlid boundaries. It is not a good choice for peaceful community tanks with delicate or slow-moving fish. Although not among the most aggressive cichlids, \u003cem\u003eLamprologus heliantus\u003c\/em\u003e is territorial and may defend a chosen area, especially when mature or breeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSuitable tank mates include other Tanganyikan species of similar size and temperament, provided the aquarium is large enough and well structured. Compatibility improves when fish occupy different zones of the tank and when there are plenty of hiding places.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn many cases, a species tank is the simplest and most rewarding option, particularly for keepers who want to observe natural behaviour and breeding activity without conflict.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy from Tropical Fish Co\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt Tropical Fish Co, we specialise in healthy, responsibly sourced aquarium livestock with careful packing and reliable service. Your \u003cem\u003eLamprologus heliantus\u003c\/em\u003e will be prepared for dispatch with attention to welfare, water quality, and secure transport, helping ensure a smooth transition into your aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWe offer \u003cstrong\u003efast UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e and a \u003cstrong\u003elive arrival guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e, giving you confidence when ordering online. Our team understands the needs of specialist cichlid keepers and can help you choose suitable companions, foods, and setup advice for Tanganyikan fish. Whether you are building a dedicated Lake Tanganyika display or adding a distinctive species to an established cichlid system, this is a superb fish for the enthusiast.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith the right environment, \u003cem\u003eLamprologus heliantus\u003c\/em\u003e will reward you with fascinating behaviour, strong colour, and a truly authentic slice of Tanganyika in your home aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tropical Fish Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57446785089871,"sku":"N666","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1007\/1408\/6735\/files\/lamprologus-heliantus-hero-driftwood-n666.webp?v=1777517964","url":"https:\/\/tropical-fish-co.myshopify.com\/products\/lamprologus-heliantus","provider":"Tropical Fish Co","version":"1.0","type":"link"}