Princess of Burundi (Neolamprologus pulcher) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 30 gallons and 75-80°F. A graceful Tanganyikan cichlid with long, lace-like fins that lives in family groups and tends fry together. Provide rockwork with caves, hard alkaline water and a long tank.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Neolamprologus pulcher |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Tanganyika, East Africa |
| Adult size | 4 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-80°F |
| pH | 7.5-9.0 |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, territorial near its caves |
| Social behavior | Small family group |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: small pellets, flakes, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 6-10 years |
Quick tips
- Provide rockwork and caves.
- Needs hard, alkaline water.
- Offspring may stay with the parents and help guard the nest.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi