An elegant but fiercely territorial Lake Tanganyika cichlid. They are famous for their complex social structure, forming massive, multi-generational colonies where older siblings help defend and raise new fry. Due to their extreme territoriality when breeding, they are best kept in a species-only tank, as they will aggressively eliminate non-colony tank mates.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard wild-type coloration featuring a tan/light grey body, trailing lyretail filaments, and a distinct black 'V' mark on the cheek.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Wild Type, Princess of Burundi
Albino
An amelanistic (albino) color morph lacking dark pigments. Features the same complex colonial behavior and extreme territoriality as the standard wild-type.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Albino Brichardi, White Fairy Cichlid
Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi) Care Guide Summary
The Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi), scientifically known as Neolamprologus brichardi, belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 10 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 110 litres and a tank length of at least 75 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 23°C and 27°C, with a pH range of 8–9 and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
Due to its specialist needs, the Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi) is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 2 varieties: Standard and Albino. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi) Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi), a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured. Browse aquarium sand substrate options to find the best fit.
Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi) Compatibility Notes
Classified as aggressive, the Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi) is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks and territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi)
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Similar Species
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Frontosa
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Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna)
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The Auratus Cichlid is a stunning but notoriously aggressive Mbuna from Lake Malawi. They exhibit extreme sexual dimorphism. They are strictly rock-dwellers that graze on algae (aufwuchs). Due to their hyper-aggressive nature, they must be kept in species-only or carefully managed, overstocked Mbuna setups with a strict harem ratio (1 male to several females) to disperse aggression.
African Jewel Cichlid
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A strikingly beautiful but notoriously aggressive West African riverine cichlid. Unlike the alkaline-loving Rift Lake cichlids (e.g., Mbuna), Jewel Cichlids prefer neutral, softer water parameters. They are renowned for their brilliant red breeding dress and iridescent blue spots, but also for their extreme territoriality, especially when forming pairs and spawning. They are avid diggers and will uproot most plants.