Pearl Shellfish – Lamprologus meleagris | Peaceful, fascinating Tanganyika shellfish

The Pearl Cichlid ( Lamprologus meleagris ) is a charming dwarf cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, captivating aquarists with its shimmering pearly coloration and interesting behavior. With its rounded body, sparkling spots, and large eyes, it is a real eye-catcher in any cichlid aquarium.

In nature, Lamprologus meleagris lives in the sandy shore areas of Lake Tanganyika, where it uses empty snail shells as hiding places, breeding grounds, and territorial centers. It exhibits this behavior in aquariums as well – particularly fascinating when several individuals inhabit shells side by side, forming small colonies.

🌿 Characteristics & Attitude:
🐟 Fish size: 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: Territorial, pair-forming, or colony-forming
🏞️ Aquarium: 60–100 liters with sandy substrate and snail shells

🍽️ Feeding:
The pearl cichlid is an omnivore with a preference for fine frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, cyclops, or mysis shrimp. Fine granulated or flake food can also be offered. A varied diet promotes vitality and breeding success.

💡 Tip:
Provide Lamprologus meleagris with plenty of empty snail shells (e.g., Neothauma shells) and fine sandy substrate. This allows it to optimally exhibit its natural behavior – burrowing and guarding its shell.

👉 Conclusion:
The pearl cichlid ( Lamprologus meleagris ) is a peaceful, charming and fascinating cichlid with unique behavior – ideal for small Tanganyika aquariums.