Lake Tanganyika, Kigoma Region, Tanzania

Aquarium information

Aquarium description

Set-up date

February, 2025

Aquarium decoration

To recreate a natural biotope for Neolamprologus multifasciatus, I used a mix of beige-colored sand and Carib Sea African Ivory Coast Sand, which closely resembles the light, sandy substrate found along the rocky and shelly shores of Lake Tanganyika. A single rock structure was added to help break up sight lines and reduce territorial aggression among the fish.

While I wasn’t able to obtain authentic Neothauma tanganyicense shells (the native snail shells these cichlids inhabit), I used a combination of a few Escargot shells and a larger number of Natural Shark Eyes Sea Shells for their neutral color and smooth shape, which still allow the fish to exhibit their natural behavior.

The most authentic part of the setup, however, comes from the fish themselves. Neolamprologus multifasciatus actively dig, move sand, and rearrange the shells to shape their own territories. As a result, the aquarium landscape is always evolving—mirroring the dynamic nature of their habitat in the wild—and it’s incredibly rewarding to watch.

Aquarium equipment

• AquaClear Power HOB Filter with slow flow
• FREESEA Aquarium Fish Tank Heater
• SEAOURA Clip On Aquarium Light
• Hiro Aquatic COB LED Light

Fish list:

• Neolamprologus multifasciatus (Cichlidae)

Aufwuchs: Periphyton – various e.g., Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae

Fish care

To keep these fish happy and healthy I love to feed once to twice a day. The fishes diets varies from high quality crushed up pellets to high quality flakes. The aquarium gets a weekly 30% water change. I use Seachem’s Tanganyika Buffer when I do a water to help keep pH high enough for these beautiful fish. I also keep the lighting subdued as it helps the fish exhibit more natural behavior. I added a lot of sand to this aquarium as these fish love to dig around.

Plant care

The are no aquatic plants found here expect for some algae growth. I like to grow the algae for a more natural look and it helps the fish fry with food as they are constantly grazing the algae for microorganisms.

Water care

The aquarium gets a weekly 30% water change. I use Seachem’s Tanganyika Buffer when I do a water to help keep pH high enough for these beautiful fish. I also clean all sides of the glass and leave some of the algae on the rock and shells and even the sand. This helps the fish fry graze for micro organisms which they do constantly.

Dimensions

Length

90 cm

Depth

20 cm

High

25 cm

Volume

45 L