Collection: African cichlids - lake Tanganyika

Ranging from 1.5" shell-dwellers to 3 feet giants, they occupy specific ecological niches. They require hard, alkaline water (pH 8.0–9.0) and are often territorial, with popular types including rock-dwelling cichlids, sand-sifters, and open-water schoolers. 

Stable, high pH (8.0–9.0) and hard water are essential.

They are highly intelligent, display complex social structures, and are often more territorial than other African cichlids.

Many Tanganyikan cichlids are mouthbrooders, carrying their young in their mouths for protection, while others are substrate spawners.