Lamprologus comp. Tanzania Red Fin 3-4 cm

Overview

Lamprologus comp. Tanzania Red Fin is a distinctive Tanganyikan cichlid prized for its elegant shape, lively behaviour and eye-catching red finnage. Offered at 3-4 cm, these juveniles are a great choice for aquarists looking to build a specialist Lake Tanganyika setup with character and colour. As with many Lamprologus-type cichlids, this fish is best kept in hard, alkaline water and given plenty of rockwork and territories to explore.

This species is suited to experienced beginners and intermediate keepers who can provide stable water chemistry and a well-structured aquarium. In the right environment, it becomes an engaging fish with fascinating social behaviour, especially when kept as a pair or in a carefully managed group. We ship with fast UK delivery and a live arrival guarantee for your peace of mind.

Please note that Tanganyikan cichlids are territorial by nature, so aquascaping and stocking choices matter. If you are after a fish that combines beauty, resilience and authentic African lake character, the Tanzania Red Fin is an excellent option.

Care at a Glance

Origin & Natural Habitat

This fish originates from Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, one of the world’s oldest and most biologically diverse freshwater lakes. Tanganyikan cichlids have evolved in highly specialised habitats, often living among rocky shorelines, rubble zones and shell beds where they establish territories and breed in caves or crevices.

The natural environment is warm, mineral-rich and very stable, with high pH and hardness. Replicating these conditions in the aquarium is essential for long-term health. In the wild, fish of this type use rock formations for shelter, spawning and boundary setting, which is why a rock-heavy aquascape is strongly recommended.

Because of their specialised ecology, these fish are not suitable for soft, acidic community tanks. They thrive when their water chemistry mirrors Tanganyika conditions and when they are given enough space to claim a territory.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

A Tanganyikan setup should prioritise stability, structure and oxygenation. A tank of 120 litres or more is recommended for a single specimen or compatible pair, with larger aquariums preferred for groups or mixed Tanganyika communities. Use a sandy or fine gravel substrate and build secure rock piles with caves, gaps and visual barriers. Always ensure rocks are stable and placed directly on the tank base where possible to prevent collapse from digging.

Water movement should be moderate to strong, with excellent filtration and regular maintenance. These fish appreciate clean, well-oxygenated water and do best with consistent weekly water changes. Keep the temperature between 24-27°C, pH between 7.5-8.5, and hardness around 10-25 dGH. Avoid sudden changes, as Tanganyikan cichlids can be sensitive to instability even when they are otherwise hardy.

Decor should be functional rather than dense with plants. Hardy plants may be used if protected, but many keepers prefer a biotope-style layout with rocks, shells and open swimming space. Lighting can be moderate; the fish will be more confident if there are shaded areas and broken sight lines.

When introducing new fish, rearranging some rockwork can help reduce territorial disputes. As juveniles, they may appear relatively peaceful, but adults can become assertive, especially around breeding sites.

Feeding Guide

Lamprologus comp. Tanzania Red Fin is best fed a varied diet with a strong emphasis on meaty foods. In nature, Tanganyikan cichlids of this type feed on small invertebrates, crustaceans and other protein-rich items. In the aquarium, offer high-quality cichlid pellets or granules as a staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as mysis, brine shrimp, daphnia and finely chopped krill.

Feed small portions once or twice daily, only as much as the fish will consume quickly. Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and digestive issues. A varied diet helps support colour, condition and breeding readiness. Avoid relying heavily on low-protein flake foods or mammal-based foods such as beef heart, which are not appropriate for this species.

If keeping with other Tanganyikan cichlids, ensure all fish receive food by spreading it across the tank. This species can be bold at feeding time, but more timid tank mates may need targeted feeding.

Tank Mates / Compatibility

Compatibility depends on tank size, layout and the temperament of individual fish. The Tanzania Red Fin is best housed with other Tanganyikan species that can tolerate similar water conditions and hold their own without constant conflict. Suitable companions may include robust shell dwellers, peaceful rock-dwelling cichlids of similar size, and select Tanganyikan catfish where space allows.

Good tank mates are usually fish that occupy different zones or have similar territorial expectations. Provide plenty of rockwork so each fish can establish a space. In smaller aquariums, it is often best to keep a single specimen or a bonded pair rather than mixing multiple territorial cichlids.

Avoid soft-water fish, delicate community species, and slow-moving tank mates with long fins. These fish are not suitable for typical tropical community aquariums, nor should they be kept with highly aggressive species that may dominate feeding and territory. If breeding is expected, be prepared to separate fish if aggression increases.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co, we focus on healthy, well-conditioned livestock and clear, practical care information so you can set your aquarium up for success. Your Lamprologus comp. Tanzania Red Fin will be packed with care and dispatched using our fast UK delivery service, helping reduce transit stress and get your fish settled sooner.

We understand that specialist cichlids need more than just a box and a label — they need careful handling, reliable water conditions and honest guidance. That is why we aim to provide strong customer support, a straightforward ordering experience and a live arrival guarantee on eligible livestock orders. Whether you are building a dedicated Tanganyikan display or adding a standout fish to an established setup, we are here to help you choose with confidence.

Order with confidence and enjoy a fish that brings authentic Lake Tanganyika character, colour and behaviour to your aquarium.