Altolamprologus compressiceps Red Fin Kagunga 3-4 cm

Overview

Altolamprologus compressiceps Red Fin Kagunga is a distinctive Tanganyikan cichlid prized for its laterally compressed body, elegant hunting posture and subtle red fin highlights. Offered at 3-4 cm, these juveniles are still developing their full adult shape and colour, making them an exciting choice for aquarists who enjoy watching a fish grow into its final form. This is a specialist species best kept in a carefully planned Lake Tanganyika aquarium with stable water conditions, rocky structure and suitable tank mates.

Known for its calm but predatory nature, Altolamprologus compressiceps is not a community fish in the usual sense. It thrives in a species-appropriate setup with other Tanganyikan cichlids that can handle its temperament and water requirements. With the right care, it can become a long-lived, fascinating centrepiece fish. As with all livestock from Tropical Fish Co, this fish is covered by our live arrival guarantee and sent with fast UK delivery for a smooth, reliable arrival.

The Red Fin Kagunga form is especially appealing to collectors and Tanganyika enthusiasts looking for a location-linked variant with refined markings and a unique profile. It is a fish that rewards patience, good husbandry and a mature aquarium environment.

Care at a Glance

Origin & Natural Habitat

Altolamprologus compressiceps originates from Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, one of the oldest and most biologically diverse lakes on Earth. The Kagunga locality is associated with the lake’s rocky shoreline habitats, where fish navigate crevices, boulders and broken stone. In nature, this species uses its compressed body to slip into narrow spaces and hunt small invertebrates, fry and other tiny prey items.

The lake’s water is naturally hard, alkaline and very stable, with high mineral content and excellent clarity. Replicating these conditions in the aquarium is essential. This species is adapted to a highly oxygenated environment and benefits from strong filtration, regular maintenance and plenty of rockwork that mimics its natural territory. Its body shape and hunting behaviour are closely tied to this habitat, which is why a Tanganyika-style aquascape is the best way to keep it healthy and confident.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

For long-term success, house Altolamprologus compressiceps in a mature aquarium with stable, alkaline water and a carefully arranged rocky layout. A single fish can be kept in around 200 litres, but larger aquariums are strongly recommended if you plan to keep it with other Tanganyikan cichlids. The tank should include caves, vertical rock faces, crevices and open swimming space. Fine sand is ideal as a substrate, as it allows natural behaviour without damaging the fish’s delicate mouthparts or fins.

Filtration should be efficient and water movement moderate to strong, with excellent oxygenation. Regular partial water changes are important to maintain water quality and support healthy growth. Avoid sharp decor and overcrowded layouts that limit movement. Because this species is a deliberate, methodical predator, it benefits from a layout that offers both hiding places and clear sight lines.

Recommended water parameters:

• Temperature: 24-27°C
• pH: 8.0-9.0
• General hardness: hard water preferred
• Tank size: 200 litres minimum for one fish; larger for mixed Tanganyika systems

When introducing new fish, do so gradually and only into a fully cycled aquarium. This species appreciates stability far more than frequent changes. If you are building a Lake Tanganyika aquarium, pair it with other species that occupy different niches to reduce competition and stress.

Feeding Guide

Altolamprologus compressiceps is primarily carnivorous. In the wild it feeds on small crustaceans, insect larvae and tiny fish or fry. In the aquarium, offer a varied diet of high-quality meaty foods such as frozen mysis, krill, chopped prawns, bloodworm in moderation, and sinking carnivore pellets or granules designed for cichlids. Variety is important for colour, conditioning and overall health.

Feed small portions once or twice daily, only as much as the fish will consume in a few minutes. Overfeeding can quickly affect water quality and may lead to digestive issues. While juveniles may accept a wider range of foods, adults should be maintained on a protein-rich diet suited to their predatory nature. Avoid relying on mammalian meats or low-quality flake foods. A balanced, species-appropriate feeding routine will help bring out the best body shape and fin colour over time.

Tank Mates / Compatibility

This is a Tanganyikan cichlid that can be kept with suitable companions, but it is not suitable for a standard tropical community aquarium. Choose tank mates that share the same hard, alkaline water requirements and that are not small enough to be eaten. Peaceful to semi-aggressive Tanganyikan species are usually the best option, provided the aquarium is large enough and territories are well defined.

Good choices may include other Lake Tanganyika cichlids of appropriate size and temperament, such as shell dwellers in larger systems, rock-dwelling species with different niches, or robust upper-level fish that are too large to be considered prey. Avoid tiny fish, shrimp, and delicate species that cannot cope with the water chemistry or the compressiceps’ predatory instincts. It is also wise to avoid aggressive fish that may outcompete or harass this slower, more deliberate cichlid.

As with many cichlids, compatibility improves when the fish are introduced to a well-structured tank with plenty of hiding places and visual breaks. A carefully planned Tanganyika setup will reduce aggression and allow natural behaviour to shine through.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co, we understand that specialist fish need specialist care. Our livestock is selected with health, quality and accurate identification in mind, so you can buy with confidence. We pack and dispatch live fish using reliable methods designed to support safe transit, and we offer fast UK delivery to get your fish to you quickly and in good condition. Every order is backed by our live arrival guarantee, giving you extra peace of mind when purchasing online.

Whether you are building a dedicated Lake Tanganyika display or adding a standout predator cichlid to an established African setup, Altolamprologus compressiceps Red Fin Kagunga is a superb choice for experienced aquarists. With the right environment, this species develops into a truly captivating fish with unique shape, behaviour and presence.