Lemon Cichlid (Neolamprologus leleupi) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 30 gallons and 74-82°F. A bright yellow-orange Tanganyikan cave spawner. It defends its cave from tankmates, so give it rockwork with plenty of hiding places, hard alkaline water and a tight-fitting lid.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Neolamprologus leleupi |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Tanganyika, East Africa |
| Adult size | 4 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gallons |
| Temperature | 74-82°F |
| pH | 7.5-9.0 |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, territorial |
| Social behavior | Pair or small group in a large tank |
| Swim level | Bottom, around rocks |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore-leaning omnivore: small pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 6-8 years |
Quick tips
- Provide caves; it breeds and defends in them.
- Needs hard, alkaline water.
- Choose tankmates that are not tiny or timid.
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