Neolamprologus helianthus is a dwarf cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. It is distinguished by its magnificent sunny yellow colouring with bluish highlights on the fins, making it one of the brightest cichlids on the lake.

It is well suited to medium-sized aquariums (100-150 L), provided you have a well-structured rocky setting. Its vivacity and territoriality mean that strict rules of cohabitation are essential.

Behaviour & maintenance

• Territorial, active and curious
• Best kept in pairs or small, structured groups
• Can be aggressive towards other species of the same or similar shape
• Occupies rocky areas with crevices

A well-designed rock setting, with plenty of cavities and hiding places, is essential to limit conflict.

Feeding

Carnivorous micro-predator:

• Small invertebrates, artemia nauplii, daphnia
• Protein-rich pellets and flakes
• A varied diet to stimulate colour

Feed 1 to 2 times a day, in small, well-absorbed quantities.

Water quality

• Temperature: 24 - 27°C
• pH: 7.8 - 9.0
• GH: 10 - 20 °dGH
• KH : 7 - 12 °KH
• Conductivity: 250 - 350 µS

Maintain hard, stable, well-oxygenated water. The addition of specific Tanganyika salts is recommended if you use osmosis water.

Decor & environment

• Fine, light-coloured sand to reproduce the natural biotope
• Stacked limestone forming caves
• Optional plants: Anubias, Microsorum on rocks

The decor must provide a visual separation between the territories.

Maintenance sheet

Scientific name	Neolamprologus helianthus
Common name	Helianthus
Adult size	7 - 9 cm
Sale size	4 - 6 cm
Origin	Lake Tanganyika (East Africa)
Temperature	24 - 27 °C
pH	7.8 - 9.0
GH	10 - 20 °dGH
KH	7 - 12 °KH
Conductivity	250 - 350 µS
Life expectancy	6 - 8 years
Behaviour	Territorial, active
Living zone	Rocks / bottom
Minimum volume	100 - 120 L (for a couple)
Diet	Carnivore (micro-predator)

Aquabota tip

To limit aggression, avoid keeping it with other Neolamprologus of a similar shape or behaviour. Instead, associate it with species that live in open water, such as Cyprichromis or small species like Paracyprichromis.