Callipterus (Lamprologus callipterus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameLamprologus callipterus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asCallipterus, Shell-Stacking Lamprologus

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size6 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

Water parametersTemp 76-82°F, pH 8.0-9.0, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Slender silvery body with yellow-tinged fins; large dominant males gather dozens of empty shells into a breeding nest.

Difficulty and care for the Callipterus

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Tanganyika, Africa

Keeper notes

Famous for extreme male-female size dimorphism; large males collect shells for tiny females and defend the nest aggressively.

Log Callipterus in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Callipterus alongside everything else in your reef.

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