An endemic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika known for its striking resemblance to the much larger Frontosa cichlid. Despite its moderate size, the 'Tret' is highly aggressive and territorial. In the wild, they are specialized molluscivores (snail eaters) with powerful jaws. They require hard, alkaline water and rockwork caves.
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus At a Glance
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus Tank Requirements
Will Neolamprologus Tretocephalus fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Neolamprologus Tretocephalus needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Neolamprologus Tretocephalus against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Neolamprologus Tretocephalus Water Parameters
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Neolamprologus Tretocephalus Temperament & Compatibility
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard form. Males and females are virtually identical (monomorphic). Due to severe conspecific aggression, it is highly recommended to keep them solitary unless keeping a confirmed, bonded breeding pair in a very large aquarium.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Wild Type, Tret
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus Care Guide Summary
The Neolamprologus Tretocephalus, scientifically known as Neolamprologus tretocephalus, belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 15 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as aggressive, this species primarily occupies the bottom and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Neolamprologus Tretocephalus requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 150 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 8–9 and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Neolamprologus Tretocephalus is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. The Neolamprologus Tretocephalus is typically available in one standard form.
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Neolamprologus Tretocephalus, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom and mid-level 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.
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus Compatibility Notes
Classified as aggressive, the Neolamprologus Tretocephalus is best housed alone, as they do not tolerate others of their kind in confined spaces. When choosing tankmates, snails will be treated as food rather than 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 bottom and mid-level zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Neolamprologus Tretocephalus.
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
Show 9 more tank sizes
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Frequently Asked Questions About Neolamprologus Tretocephalus
How big does Neolamprologus Tretocephalus get?
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus (Neolamprologus tretocephalus) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 15 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Neolamprologus Tretocephalus need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 150 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm are recommended for Neolamprologus Tretocephalus. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Neolamprologus Tretocephalus need?
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–28°C, a pH between 8 and 9, and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Neolamprologus Tretocephalus peaceful or aggressive?
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus is classified as aggressive with an aggression score of 8 out of 10. Careful tankmate selection is essential to avoid conflict.
Can Neolamprologus Tretocephalus live with others of its kind?
No. Only one Neolamprologus Tretocephalus should be kept per tank. Keeping multiples in the same aquarium typically results in aggression and stress.
Will Neolamprologus Tretocephalus eat snails?
Yes. Neolamprologus Tretocephalus actively feeds on snails. While this can be useful for controlling pest snail populations, it means decorative snails should not be housed with this species.
Does Neolamprologus Tretocephalus have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Neolamprologus Tretocephalus benefits from sand (sifters) and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Neolamprologus Tretocephalus
These plants pair well with Neolamprologus Tretocephalus based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Congo Anubias
Anubias heterophylla
Gillet's Anubias
Anubias gilletii
Java Fern
Leptochilus pteropus
Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Fish Similar to Neolamprologus Tretocephalus
Neolamprologus Fasciatus
Neolamprologus fasciatus
An ambush predator endemic to Lake Tanganyika. It is a specialized shrimp-eater and piscivore, famous for a unique hunting technique where it remains completely motionless before striking its prey. Unlike many Tanganyikan cichlids, they are not strictly rock-bound and often utilize empty snail shells on sandy bottoms for spawning.
Neolamprologus Similis
Neolamprologus similis
A fascinating dwarf cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. Known as a 'shell dweller' (or shellie), they live, breed, and seek refuge in empty snail shells (like Escargot or Neothauma shells). They are highly social, forming complex multi-generational colonies. They require hard, alkaline water, a sandy substrate for excavation, and at least 2-3 shells per fish.
Altolamprologus Compressiceps
Altolamprologus compressiceps
A highly specialized, predatory African Cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. It features an extremely laterally compressed (paper-thin) body and steep forehead, designed to slip into narrow rocky crevices to hunt fry and invertebrates. They are notorious for their very slow growth rate and heavily 'armored' scales.
Frontosa
Cyphotilapia frontosa
A majestic and iconic deep-water cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, famous for its striking black and white bands and the prominent nuchal hump on its head. Despite their massive size, they are gentle giants compared to other African cichlids. However, they are highly effective piscivores and will easily consume smaller fish. They are best kept in a 'harem' colony of one male to multiple females.
Cyprichromis Leptosoma
Cyprichromis leptosoma
A unique, pelagic (open-water) schooling cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. Unlike rock-dwelling African cichlids, 'Cyps' live in massive shoals in the open water column where males display to females in spectacular 3D territories. They require very hard, alkaline water and a long tank (minimum 4 feet / 120cm) to accommodate their active swimming behavior.
Lemon Cichlid (Leleupi)
Neolamprologus leleupi
A striking, torpedo-shaped cichlid endemic to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika. Famous for its intense yellow or orange coloration. They are highly territorial cave-dwellers that require hard, alkaline water. Due to their aggression toward their own kind, they are best kept as a solitary specimen or a confirmed breeding pair.