Yellow lelupi (4 pcs)

Neolamprologus leleupi, commonly called the Yellow Leleupi, is one of the most striking cichlids from Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. Its brilliant lemon-yellow to orange coloration and slender body make it a standout fish, but it is territorial and best suited for a species or African cichlid aquarium.

Quick Facts

• Scientific name: Neolamprologus leleupi
• Common names: Yellow Leleupi, Lemon Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Tanganyika (Zambia, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of the Congo)
• Adult size: 8–10 cm (3–4 inches)
• Lifespan: 8–10 years
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Temperament: Territorial, especially during breeding

Appearance

• Bright yellow to golden-orange body.
• Long, streamlined shape with pointed fins.
• Males and females look very similar, making sexing difficult.

Ideal Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 7.8–9.0
• Hardness: 10–20 dGH
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: Below 20 ppm

Maintaining the hard, alkaline water typical of Lake Tanganyika is important for their long-term health.

Aquarium Setup

• Minimum tank size: 120 liters (30 gallons) for a pair
• Fine sand or small gravel substrate
• Plenty of rock piles and caves
• Strong filtration with good oxygenation
• Open swimming areas between rock formations

Diet

Yellow Leleupi are carnivorous:

• High-quality cichlid pellets
• Frozen brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, krill, and bloodworms
• Live foods occasionally
• Avoid feeding mammalian meats (such as beef heart), which can cause digestive issues.

Tank Mates

Suitable companions include other peaceful to moderately aggressive Lake Tanganyika species, such as:

• Julidochromis transcriptus
• Neolamprologus brichardi
• Cyprichromis leptosoma
• Synodontis petricola

Avoid:

• South American cichlids like Apistogramma
• Soft-water community fish (tetras, rasboras)
• Very aggressive African cichlids from other lakes

Breeding

• Cave spawner.
• The female lays 50–150 eggs inside a cave.
• Both parents guard the eggs and fry.
• Eggs hatch in about 3–4 days.
• Fry become free-swimming after 7–10 days.

Care Tips

• Perform weekly 25–30% water changes.
• Maintain stable, hard, alkaline water.
• Provide numerous caves to reduce territorial disputes.
• Keep a bonded pair or maintain ample space if housing multiple individuals.