Gold Compressiceps (Altolamprologus compressiceps)

Gold Compressiceps (Altolamprologus compressiceps)

Gold Compressiceps is a specialist Lake Tanganyika cichlid with a deep, laterally compressed body and a warm gold colour form. It is best kept by aquarists who want a rock-dwelling predator with deliberate behaviour, not a peaceful mixed-community fish.

The trade name is usually used for a gold form of Altolamprologus compressiceps. This fish is built for crevices: the narrow body lets it move between rocks and shells, where it naturally searches for small prey. In the aquarium that means structure, water stability and sensible tank mates matter more than decoration alone.

Quick facts

• Scientific name: Altolamprologus compressiceps
• Adult size: around 12-14 cm
• Care level: Intermediate
• Minimum aquarium: 200 litres; larger is better for mixed Tanganyika groups
• Water: 24-27C, hard alkaline Lake Tanganyika-style conditions
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, predatory and territorial around shelter
• Diet: Carnivore; quality cichlid pellets, frozen foods and occasional live foods

Aquarium setup

Use a mature aquarium with strong biological filtration, high oxygen and stable mineral-rich water. Build secure rockwork with caves, narrow gaps and sight breaks. Shells can be added in a Tanganyika layout, but avoid unstable piles that could shift while the fish explores.

A 200-litre aquarium is the baseline for one adult or a carefully planned pair. If you want a mixed Tanganyika display, more space gives each fish room to hold shelter without constant confrontation.

Feeding

Feed small, controlled portions of carnivore cichlid pellets, frozen mysis, krill, brine shrimp and similar meaty foods. Gold Compressiceps is a patient feeder rather than a frantic surface fish, so make sure food reaches its territory without overfeeding the aquarium.

Tank mates

Choose tank mates from similar hard-water Tanganyika setups. Suitable options can include robust shell dwellers, selected Lamprologines and open-water Tanganyika cichlids in a large enough aquarium. Avoid tiny fish, fry, soft-water community species and aggressive mismatched cichlids that will turn the tank into a constant contest.

For similar Tanganyika comparisons, see Black Zaire Calvus, Gombe Compressiceps, Mutondwe Compressiceps and Multi Shell-Dweller.

Ordering and arrival

Livestock is packed for overnight travel with a licensed live-animal courier and covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee. Acclimate slowly into hard, alkaline water and keep the lights low while the fish settles.