Fin's Fish Guide
The Dotted-tail lamprologus (Neolamprologus caudopunctatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; sand and gravel bottoms near rocks and snail shells.
Description
The dotted-tail lamprologus is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 6.5 cm and has a pale body with a yellowish dorsal-fin margin and fine spots on the tail, to which the name refers. It lives over sand and rubble bottoms near rocks and empty snail shells, where it shelters and lays its eggs. It often hovers above the bottom to pick zooplankton from the water. The pair fiercely guards the brood in and around a cavity or shell. The species is popular in the aquarium. Owing to its small size it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dotted-tail lamprologus?
The Dotted-tail lamprologus has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a plain pattern. Hovers above the bottom to pick plankton; breeds in cavities and snail shells, guards the clutch fiercely.
Where does the Dotted-tail lamprologus live?
The Dotted-tail lamprologus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; sand and gravel bottoms near rocks and snail shells.
How big does the Dotted-tail lamprologus get?
The Dotted-tail lamprologus grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Dotted-tail lamprologus dangerous to humans?
No, the Dotted-tail lamprologus is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dotted-tail lamprologus edible?
The Dotted-tail lamprologus is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neolamprologus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Dotted-tail lamprologus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dotted-tail lamprologus is one of 12,519 species in the app.