Guinea-fowl perch – Altolamprologus calvus | Elegant, armored Tanganyika cichlid

The guinea fowl cichlid ( Altolamprologus calvus ) is one of the most fascinating and extraordinary cichlids of Lake Tanganyika. With its strongly laterally compressed body, striking spots on a dark background, and calm, ambush behavior, it resembles a guinea fowl – hence its name. This species uniquely combines elegance, tranquility, and character.

In nature, Altolamprologus calvus lives in the rocky shore areas of Lake Tanganyika, where it hunts small fish and invertebrates in crevices and rock fissures. Its armored scales and powerful jaw muscles make it perfectly adapted to life among the rocks. In the aquarium, it is calm, observant, and territorial – a truly distinctive fish for lovers of African cichlids.

🌿 Characteristics & Attitude:
🐟 Fish size: S/M (approx. 3–4 cm, juvenile)
🌍 Origin: East Africa (Lake Tanganyika) – Captive bred
🌡️ Temperature: 24-27°C
💧 pH value: 7.8–9.0
⚖️ Total hardness: 10–20 °dGH
🐠 Social behavior: Calm, territorial, keeping in pairs is recommended
🏞️ Aquarium: from 200 liters with sandy bottom, many rocks & crevices

🍽️ Feeding:
The pearl danio is a carnivore. Frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, krill, or cyclops are ideal. High-quality cichlid granules and fine frozen food support growth and color development.

💡 Tip:
Keep Altolamprologus calvus in pairs or small groups with plenty of hiding places. A good structure of rocks and caves provides security and minimizes territorial disputes.

👉 Conclusion:
The Pearl Fowl Nanderbass ( Altolamprologus calvus ) is an elegant, calm and fascinating Tanganyika cichlid with a distinctive spotted pattern – perfect for lovers of extraordinary species.