Orange Fin - Lamprologus Caudopunctatus 3.5cm

Orange Fin - Lamprologus Caudopunctatus

The Orange Fin Lamprologus Caudopunctatus also commonly referred to as the caudopunc cichlid is an African cichlid species that has quickly been rising in popularity. The personality, relatively large size for the family of fish this species comes from, its shell-dwelling nature and how easily they breed have made this a new ‘go-to’ species for aquarists looking to enter the world of African cichlids. These stunning fish originally come from lake Tanganyika and you're actually a larger species of shell dweller meaning that they spend a lot of living in and amongst shells.

The Lamprologus Caudopunctatus is quite a simple but stunning fish. They have a light peach colour with a pearl white sheen that looks beautiful as these fish glisten under the aquarium lights. Across the fins, eyes, and scales, the lamprologus caudopunctatus will have an iridescent blue highlight with the main contrast being a sulphur-yellow dorsal fin. These fish also have a bulky body shape which is usually not common amongst shell-dwelling fish that are often laterally compressed. The caudopunc can however thrive without the presence of shells in the aquarium as long as there are similar methods of cover, but shells will offer a natural habitat.

Breeding these fish is relatively easy. There are no obvious distinguishing factors between males and females as long as a small colony kept with a few caves or large shells, the cichlids will eventually breed. They can be territorial in smaller groups which is why a larger aquarium or larger colony will be better.

Tank Recommendations for your Orange Fin - Lamprologus Caudopunctatus
As the lamprologus caudopunctatus only reaches around 6.5 cm, an adult pair of these fish can easily be kept in a tank of around 70 litres. They will however thrive in larger aquariums when kept in a colony of 6 or more. Since these cichlids spend a lot of time near the bottom of the aquarium it is best to ensure there is a decent footprint.

Lamprologus caudopunctatus cichlids can be territorial, especially during breeding time however their aggression is quite minimal compared to other African cichlids. It is best to provide them with a plentiful supply of large shells and caves for security and just to diffuse any potential aggression. These are also tropical fish which are best kept at 24-26 degrees.

Suitable Tank Buddies
The orange fin lamprologus caudopunctatus can be kept with a range of other smaller and relatively peaceful African cichlids. Since these fish require a higher PH of around 8 the tank mates chosen should be adaptable to this.

Usually Compatible
Other shell dweller species like neolamprologus mulifaciatus and smaller African cichlids such as black calvus, furcifer cichlids and julidochromis.

Sometimes Compatible
Frontosa, smaller Mbuna species, and other larger but somewhat peaceful African cichlids like Mdoka whitelips.

Rarely Compatible
Aggressive African cichlid species like fuscodichromis and polystigma.

Feeding your Orange Fin - Lamprologus Caudopunctatus
Lamprologus Caudopunctatus will take to aquarium foods very easily. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. By giving them a varied diet, it ensures that they have optimal nutrition. The ideal diet would be good quality, small, and slow food, supplemented with green matter like algae flakes or sheets. Feeding any foods with natural colour enhancers would also be great as this will enhance the yellow fins in this fish.