Fin's Fish Guide
The Lamprologus speciosus is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
Lamprologus speciosus is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species reaches only about 5 cm and lives on sandy bottoms where empty snail shells, partly buried in the sand, serve as shelter and breeding site. It occurs in areas with a low density of snail shells, at depths of five to forty metres. It is a greedy eater feeding mainly on insect larvae. The eggs are laid in a snail shell and guarded. Through its unusual habits the species is prized by advanced cichlid keepers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lamprologus speciosus?
The Lamprologus speciosus has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Shell brooder that lives and breeds in partly buried, empty snail shells.
Where does the Lamprologus speciosus live?
The Lamprologus speciosus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Lamprologus speciosus get?
The Lamprologus speciosus grows to a maximum of about 5 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Lamprologus speciosus dangerous to humans?
No, the Lamprologus speciosus is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lamprologus speciosus edible?
The Lamprologus speciosus is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Lamprologus speciosus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lamprologus speciosus is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lamprologus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Lamprologus speciosus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lamprologus speciosus is one of 12,519 species in the app.