Scientific name: Altolamprologus calvus

Common name: Black Calvus

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 13 cm (3.94 - 5.12 inch)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 8 - 8.9

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 9 - 19°N (160.71 - 339.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 25 °C (73.4 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food

The Altolamprologus is carnivorous and will accept a variety of flakes, live, dried and frozen foods. In the wild they are predators of eggs and will hunt in any fish nest they can find.

Sexing

Sexual dimorphisms become apparent when this cichlid matures. The males have longer flowing fins and are noticeably larger than the females.

Breeding

A. calvus females use a shell or cave that is too small for males to enter in which to lay their eggs. The male releases the sperm at the opening of the shell or cave and both parents fan the eggs to fertilize them. The female guards the eggs while the male guards the perimeter of their territory. Just before the fry are about to hatch it would be a good idea to move the shell containing the eggs and the female to a separate tank. The fry will hatch within 10 days and can be fed infusoria after their yolk sacs have been absorbed.

Lifespan

The calvus can live for over 10 years.

Origin

This cichlid lives in the rocky areas of Lake Tanganyika of Africa.

Short Description

This slow growing cichlid may take up to 2 years to reach sexual maturity. They come in several different color variations including but not limited to white, black, and yellow.