Daffodil (Lamprologus sp. daffodil) — 3-4cm

Overview

The Daffodil (Lamprologus sp. daffodil) is a striking, compact Tanganyikan cichlid with bold personality and beautiful yellow coloration. Native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, this impressive species is prized for its attractive appearance and fascinating behaviours. Available as freshwater fish for sale UK from specialist retailers like Tropical Fish Co, this daffodil cichlid brings authentic Lake Tanganyika character to specialized aquarium setups.

Growing to approximately 7cm adult size, Lamprologus sp. daffodil requires minimum 60-litre aquarium with rockwork and hard, alkaline water. This semi-aggressive carnivore displays territorial behaviour particularly during breeding. The yellow coloration combined with compact size makes them attractive additions to lake tanganyika cichlids for sale UK biotope aquariums. Buy tropical fish UK specimens from sources providing comprehensive guidance on tanganyika cichlids uk care requirements.

Appearance

Lamprologus sp. daffodil displays beautiful yellow to golden coloration that gives it the common name. Body compact and robust with well-developed finnage. Males typically more colourful and slightly larger than females. The yellow colouration particularly intense in well-conditioned specimens under quality lighting. At 7cm maximum size, these are perfectly scaled for medium Tanganyika community tanks.

Natural Habitat

Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, inhabits rocky areas with caves and crevices. Lake Tanganyika characterized by extremely hard, highly alkaline water (pH 7.8-9.0), stable temperatures 24-27°C, excellent water quality. These fish establish territories among rocks, defending caves and preferred areas particularly during breeding.

Aquarium Setup

Provide extensive rockwork creating caves, overhangs, and territories. Use calcareous substrate to buffer pH naturally. Create broken lines of sight reducing territorial aggression. Excellent filtration and regular water changes essential. Despite moderate size, territorial behaviour requires thoughtful aquascaping. Position rocks securely to prevent collapse.

Feeding

Carnivorous diet including quality cichlid pellets, small frozen foods (mysis, brine shrimp, daphnia), occasional protein-rich live foods. Feed varied portions 2-3 times daily. Avoid overfeeding—these messy eaters rapidly degrade water quality. Do not rely solely on dry foods—frozen supplementation maintains health and colour.

Behaviour and Temperament

Semi-aggressive with territorial behaviour typical of rock-dwelling Tanganyika cichlids. Males establish and defend cave territories, particularly during breeding. Bonded pairs defend spawning areas vigorously. Despite aggression toward rivals, can coexist with appropriate tankmates in well-structured tanks. Bold personality makes them engaging aquarium inhabitants.

Tank Mates

Compatible with other similarly sized, non-aggressive Tanganyikan cichlids in species-appropriate setups. Snails tolerated. Avoid: large aggressive cichlids, very peaceful slow-moving fish, fin-nipping species, fish requiring soft acidic water, tiny fry or shrimp. daffodil cichlid tank mates must be compatible with hard alkaline water and moderate aggression levels.

Breeding

Cave or rock crevice spawners forming bonded pairs. Pair defends small territory and lays eggs in sheltered site. Parents guard fry closely. Provide stable alkaline water and plenty of caves. Fry raised on newly hatched brine shrimp and micro foods. Breeding pairs become highly territorial—provide ample structure and avoid overcrowding.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

When you buy daffodil cichlid from Tropical Fish Co, you're choosing specialists in african cichlids for sale UK with expertise in Lake Tanganyika species. Our Lamprologus sp. daffodil specimens are quarantined, feeding confidently, and acclimatised. We provide comprehensive guidance on tanganyika cichlids uk care, water chemistry management, rockwork aquascaping, and compatibility. Fast delivery throughout UK with professional packaging. Support available for questions. All livestock backed by health guarantee.