Neolamprologus brichardi, also known as Princess of Burundi or Fairy Cichlid, is a small but stunningly colored cichlid fish that is native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It is a popular species among aquarists due to its unique appearance, interesting behavior, and relative ease of care.
The Princess of Burundi cichlid has a unique and striking appearance, with a light blue body and iridescent scales. They have a distinctive black mask around their eyes and a yellowish-orange dorsal fin. The males are slightly larger and more colorful than the females, with longer fins and a more intense coloration.
In the wild, Princess of Burundi cichlids are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates and algae. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of high-quality fish food, supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia. A varied diet is important to ensure that they receive all the necessary nutrients.
Princess of Burundi cichlids require a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and room to swim. They are generally peaceful but can become territorial during breeding season. A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a group of Princess of Burundi cichlids. They prefer a water temperature of 75-80°F and a pH of 7.8-9.0.
One of the most interesting aspects of Princess of Burundi cichlids is their social behavior. They are a social fish that forms a dominance hierarchy within their group. In the wild, they form large groups that consist of a dominant male and several females. In captivity, a group of 6-8 Princess of Burundi cichlids can be kept together, with a ratio of one male to multiple females.
Breeding Princess of Burundi cichlids can be a challenging but rewarding experience for experienced aquarists. They are a mouthbrooding species, which means that the female will hold fertilized eggs in her mouth until they hatch. Once the eggs hatch, the fry will remain in the female’s mouth for several weeks before being released.
In conclusion, Princess of Burundi cichlids are a stunning and captivating fish that can be a great addition to a community aquarium. They require a spacious tank, good water quality, and a varied diet to thrive. Their social behavior and breeding habits make them a unique and rewarding species to care for. If you’re considering adding these fascinating fish to your aquarium, be sure to research their care requirements and provide them with a suitable environment to thrive.
