DWARF SUMBU CALVUS 1.5 -2.25 inches

The Dwarf Sumbu Compressiceps Cichlid (Altolamprologus compressiceps “Sumbu”) is a very rare shell-dwelling cichlid that is native to the southernmost part of Lake Tanganyika in Africa. This small species is relatively long-lived with a lifespan of up to 10 years. It has become very popular in the aquarium hobby over the past several years, but it is very rare due to its slow growth rate and small spawn size. In the wild, it spawns in the empty shells of Neothauma tanganyicense snails.  Overall coloration of this fish is white with black striping, although mature adults often have bright yellow and blue coloration as well.

The Dwarf Sumbu Compressiceps Cichlid will thrive in an aquarium with sparse decor. Since it is a shell-dweller, it should also be provided with several empty shells, which do not necessarily have to be the Neothauma tanganyicense species. This cichlid does not do much digging in the substrate, so plants are generally safe in the same aquarium. This species is not extremely aggressive in general, but it will defend the territory around its chosen shell. Territoriality is typically at its peak during spawning. Dwarf shrimp and other small, delicate invertebrates should not be kept with the Dwarf Sumbu Compressiceps Cichlid. If spawning is desired, tankmates of other species should be kept to a minimum or avoided altogether unless the aquarium is of considerable size with ample cover/decor.

Feeding is simple for the unfussy Dwarf Sumbu Compressiceps Cichlid. High-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods will all be readily accepted. Quality and variety are the keys to a diet that will ensure that this fish maintains optimal health and coloration, so this species should not be fed dry foods exclusively.

We are currently offering juvenile specimens of this magnificent fish!

What We Like About This Fish:

• Very rare in the aquarium hobby
• Small size for a cichlid
• Possible to breed in the aquarium
• Compatible with many other species in a spacious tank
• Potential to be a “centerpiece” fish

RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:

• Temperature:  76° – 82° F (24° – 28° C)
• pH:  7.6 – 8.6
• KH:  7 – 11 KH
• Minimum tank size:  20 gallons for a pair.

CARE GUIDELINES:

• Diet:  Carnivorous. A variety of high-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods is necessary for optimal health and coloration.
• Social behavior:  Loosely social until sexual maturity. Breeding pairs are often aggressive to all other fish.
• Origin:  Tank-Bred, but indigenous to Lake Tanganyika, Africa
• Average adult size:  3 inches (7.5 cm) for males. Females are much smaller
• Average purchase size:  .5 inch (1.3 cm)