Description
Neolamprologus Tretocephalus—Five-Bar Cichlid
A Bold, Striking African Cichlid for the Serious Hobbyist
Bring vibrant personality and eye-catching contrast to your aquarium with the Neolamprologus tretocephalus, also known as the Five-Bar Cichlid. With its sharp black-and-white vertical bars, electric blue facial highlights, and confident attitude, this species stands out as one of Lake Tanganyika’s most striking cichlids.
Origin
Native to the rocky shorelines of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, N. tretocephalus thrives in hard, alkaline water and naturally occupies rock piles and crevices. Their wild heritage gives them fascinating territorial behavior and bold intelligence—all without requiring difficult care.
Diet
These cichlids are omnivorous with a carnivorous lean. In the home aquarium they enjoy:
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High-quality cichlid pellets
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Frozen foods (krill, mysis, brine shrimp)
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Occasional live foods
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Spirulina-based blends for balanced nutrition
Feeding them a varied diet keeps their colors vivid and their energy levels high.
Tank Mates
Neolamprologus tretocephalus are semi-aggressive and best suited for hobbyists who enjoy active, engaging cichlid behavior. Ideal tank mates include other robust Tanganyikan species such as:
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Julidochromis
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Larger Lamprologus species
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Altolamprologus (compressiceps/calvus)
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Similar-sized Tanganyikan cichlids
Avoid housing them with small, timid, or slow-moving fish, as well as fish with very different water requirements.
Why You Should Keep Them
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Striking Appearance—Their bold five-bar pattern and metallic blue highlights make them instant eye-catchers.
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Engaging Personality—Curious, confident, and full of character—great for anyone who enjoys interactive fish.
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Hardy & Adaptable—Despite their dramatic looks, they adapt well to aquarium life with proper water parameters.
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Perfect for Tanganyikan Setups—A standout species in rock-scaped aquariums and African biotopes.
Add the Neolamprologus tretocephalus to your tank and enjoy a lively, beautiful cichlid that showcases the best of Lake Tanganyika.
