Lake Tanganyika in eastern Africa is the second deepest lake in the world. With a length of about 600 kilometres and a total shoreline estimated at 2000 kilometres, the lake is home to a vast array of Cichlids (approximately 200 species, plus many colour variations within some species). Virtually all of these Cichlids are endemic to the lake (i.e. they occur nowhere else). Many of them are very popular as aquarium fish, because of their fascinating behaviour and attractive appearance. With so many types to choose from, they can range from fish that are very easy to keep and breed through to species that are a real challenge for even the most experienced fish hobbyists.