Size
Fairy cichlid grow to a maximum length of about 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm), however in the aquarium they can occasionally grow to a maximum length of 6 inches (15 cm).
Physical Appearance
The Fairy Cichlid (Neolamprologus brichardi) has a continuous dorsal fin and an elongated, laterally compressed body. Their tail fin is designed like a lyre. This fish typically has an olive or greyish brown colour. Around the eyes and the edge of the tails, it has metallic blue colouring. This fish also has several black, yellow, and blue face lines. These facial wrinkles, however, may not be present in all fish species.
Habitat
Lake Tanganyika in East Africa is the natural habitat of the Lyretail cichlid. Because of their extraordinarily vivid colours and their big, round eyes, they are often referred to as Fairy Cichlids and Waterbabies. Benthopelagic is where Brichardi fish live. It inhabits areas with freshwater within a benthic depth range.
Keeping as Pet
Tank Size
The Fairy Cichlid is a lively fish that will swim throughout the tank. A minimum of 15 gallons is advised for a species-only tank, however 20 or 35 gallons are preferable. If mingling with other species, a larger tank—50 gallons or more—would be necessary. They require strong and effective filtration as well as good water flow.
Water Conditions
Brichardi fish need to be kept in water that is clean, oxygenated, has a high pH of 8.5, and is between 77 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. It is one of the very few fish that can spend its entire life in pure freshwater, but because it is particularly prone to disease, beginners or those who maintain fewer than five tanks are not advised to keep it.
Tank Mates
Some typical tank companions are species of catfish, small tetras, and dwarf cichlids. Ideal is a school with one male and several females. If not enough room is available for them to create their own zone inside the aquarium, they shouldn’t be kept in a communal aquarium.
Food
In captivity, lyretail cichlids will eat a range of meals. They can be fed a variety of pellet and flakes, frozen or freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex worms and, if they are available, newly born baby brine shrimp. Make sure they consume a diversified diet that includes both meaty meals like live or frozen bloodworms and vegetable matter for the best colour and longevity.
Table
