Red Fin Compressiceps Cichlid

Description

Red Fin Compressiceps Cichlid – Altolamprologus compressiceps

Care level: Easy
Max Size: 12.5cm
Diet: Omnivore
Temp: 23-25°C
PH: 8.0-9.0
Purchase size: 5-7cm

The Red Fin Compressiceps is a rather unusual looking cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. It is one of the more mild mannered species, despite its fearsome appearance and can be housed either as a species only set up or as part of a Tanganyika community. Territorial behaviour is fairly minimal unless breeding occurs. It is however worth noting the enormous size of the mouth and avoiding smaller species of cichlids if the Compressiceps is to be kept in a community.

The aquarium should be spacious and furnished with plenty of rock work with caves and gaps for the fish to use as cover and foraging ground. This will also break the line of sight and reduce aggression. The water needs to be hard with a high pH. This can be achieved through the addition of coral sand and ocean rock. It is recommended that rocks are affixed into position to avoid potential collapse of the rock structure. Compressiceps are very sensitive to poor water quality, so good filtration and frequent partial water changes of up to 50% are essential.

Ideal tank mates will include other larger tanganyika cichlids. Due to its meaty diet, compressiceps should not be kept with tropheus and similar herbivorous fish.

Food can be offered in the form of pellets as well as fresh and frozen fish foods such as brine shrimp, mysis, krill and bloodworm,

If you have any questions about keeping this Red Fin Compressiceps Cichlid and whether they’re suitable for you, please contact us and a member of our friendly store team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions

Why not check out our other photos of some of the best livestock to have graced our tanks!