Magarae (Lamprologus sp. magarae) — 4,5-5cm

Overview

The Magarae (Lamprologus sp. magarae) is a striking Tanganyikan dwarf cichlid with bold personality, best suited to hard, alkaline aquariums with rockwork and careful tankmate selection. Native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, this rare tropical fish UK is prized by specialist Tanganyika enthusiasts. Available as freshwater fish for sale UK from specialist retailers like Tropical Fish Co, this magarae cichlid brings authentic Lake Tanganyika character to dedicated setups.

Growing to just 3.5cm adult size, Lamprologus sp. magarae requires minimum 40-litre aquarium, though larger tanks recommended for community setups. This semi-aggressive carnivore displays territorial behaviour particularly during breeding. Perfect for nano Tanganyika biotopes, these compact cichlids pack remarkable personality. Buy tropical fish UK specimens from sources providing guidance on tanganyika cichlids uk care and hard water aquarium fish requirements.

Appearance

Lamprologus sp. magarae displays attractive subtle patterning and coloration typical of small Lamprologus species. Body compact and robust with pronounced personality despite miniature size. Males may develop slightly more intense colours and robust build compared to females. The Magarae form represents a specific locality variant within Lake Tanganyika.

Natural Habitat

Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, exact locality within Magarae region not well documented in trade. Inhabits rocky areas with caves and crevices providing territory boundaries and spawning sites. Lake Tanganyika characterized by extremely hard, highly alkaline water (pH 7.5-8.5), stable temperatures 24-27°C, excellent clarity.

Aquarium Setup

Provide abundant rockwork creating caves, crevices, and territories. Use calcareous substrate to buffer pH. Create distinct territory zones with visual barriers. Excellent filtration maintaining pristine water quality essential. Perform regular 30-40% weekly water changes. Despite small size, territorial behaviour requires thoughtful aquascaping providing multiple secure territories.

Feeding

Carnivorous requiring varied diet of quality cichlid pellets, frozen or live mysis, brine shrimp, daphnia, finely chopped crustaceans. Feed small portions 2-3 times daily. Avoid overfeeding—use protein-rich foods with minimal filler. Varied diet maintains health and breeding condition in these small carnivores.

Behaviour and Temperament

Semi-aggressive and territorial particularly toward conspecifics and similar-shaped fish. Establishes and defends cave territories. Despite tiny size, displays bold cichlid personality including territorial displays, courtship behaviours, aggressive defence of preferred caves. Best kept as pairs or small groups in appropriately sized tanks with ample territory options. Can be territorial especially when breeding.

Tank Mates

Compatible with other small, similarly tempered Tanganyikan species only in appropriately sized, well-structured tanks. Potentially conspecific pairs or small groups with adequate territories. Small Tanganyikan catfish only with caution. Avoid: small community fish, slow-moving or long-finned fish, overly aggressive cichlids, soft-water fish, very small invertebrates.

Breeding

Cave or crevice spawners forming pairs. Provide rockwork with secure spawning sites and stable hard alkaline water. Parents guard eggs and fry within cave. Fry raised on newly hatched brine shrimp and micro foods. Breeding occurs readily in appropriate conditions with well-conditioned pairs. Territorial aggression increases during breeding—provide ample cover.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

When you buy magarae cichlid online UK from Tropical Fish Co, you're choosing specialists in rare tropical fish UK with expertise in Lake Tanganyika species. Our Lamprologus sp. magarae specimens are quarantined, feeding confidently, and acclimatised. We provide comprehensive guidance on alkaline water fish care, Tanganyikan setup requirements, water chemistry management, and compatibility for african cichlids for sale UK. Fast delivery with professional packaging. Support available for questions. All livestock backed by health guarantee.