Brichardi Albino Cichlid (Neolamprologus brichardi) - Live Fish

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM:

The Brichardi Cichlid (Neolamprologus brichardi) is a popular and striking species of cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, Africa. Known for its peaceful nature and beautiful appearance, it is often referred to as the Fairy Cichlid due to its graceful form and shimmering colors. This species is especially loved by aquarium enthusiasts who enjoy keeping cichlids that are both stunning and relatively easy to care for.

Physical Characteristics:

• Coloration:
  • The Brichardi Cichlid typically has a silver-grey or light yellowish body with a distinctive blue-green sheen that is more pronounced under certain lighting.
  • It features a long, flowing dorsal fin, often with a subtle blue or green iridescence, and a dark vertical stripe along its body.
  • Males tend to be slightly larger and more colorful than females, with more pronounced features, especially during breeding.
• Size:
  • The Brichardi Cichlid is a relatively small cichlid, reaching an average length of about 4 to 5 inches (10 to 12 cm). This makes it a good option for aquariums of moderate size.

Care and Habitat:

• Water Requirements:

  • As a Lake Tanganyika native, the Brichardi Cichlid prefers alkaline water with a pH between 7.5 and 9.0.
  • The ideal water temperature is between 75°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C), and they thrive in hard water (high mineral content), similar to their natural habitat.
  • Good filtration and high oxygenation are necessary, as they come from waters with high oxygen levels.

• Tank Setup:

  • Minimum Tank Size: A 55-gallon tank is recommended for a small group of Brichardis. These fish are territorial and require space, especially when breeding.
  • The tank should be equipped with rock formations, caves, and crevices where the fish can hide and establish territories.
  • Sandy substrate is ideal, as it mimics their natural environment, and they may dig in the substrate.
  • A peaceful and stable environment with appropriate hiding spots will reduce aggression among individuals.

Diet:

• The Brichardi Cichlid is an omnivore, and a varied diet is essential to keep them healthy and vibrant.
  • They can be fed high-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina, algae wafers, and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
  • A balanced diet helps maintain their bright coloration and ensures they thrive.

Behavior and Socialization:

• Temperament:
  • The Brichardi Cichlid is known for its relatively peaceful nature compared to many other cichlids. While they can be territorial, especially when breeding, they are not as aggressive as other species from Lake Tanganyika.
  • Males may show aggression toward one another, but it is generally limited to establishing breeding territories.
• Socialization:
  • Brichardi Cichlids do well in groups but should be kept with other peaceful cichlids, especially those from Lake Tanganyika that share similar water parameters. They can also live with other non-aggressive species like synodontis catfish.
  • Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or large species, as they may stress the Brichardi Cichlids.

Breeding:

• Mouthbrooding: The Brichardi Cichlid is a mouthbrooder, meaning the female holds the fertilized eggs in her mouth (buccal cavity) until they hatch. After hatching, the fry remain in her mouth for protection until they are large enough to swim freely.
• Territorial: During breeding, the male will court the female, often by showing off his bright coloration and performing displays. The male may defend a particular territory where the female will lay her eggs.
• Fry Care: The fry remain in the mother’s mouth for several weeks before they are released into the tank, where they may stay close to their parents until they are more independent.

Summary:

The Brichardi Cichlid is an excellent choice for aquarists who are looking for a peaceful, colorful, and relatively easy-to-care-for cichlid. With its beautiful, silver-grey appearance and peaceful demeanor, the Brichardi Cichlid makes an outstanding addition to a community tank, particularly one with other Lake Tanganyika species. Providing a well-structured aquarium with hiding spots and territories will ensure that these cichlids thrive, and with proper care, they will be a rewarding species to keep and breed.

PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU PURCHASE

• Do not place order if temperature in your area is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Proofread your delivery address at checkout. Orders with unknown addresses will be cancelled.
• Ships on Mondays and some Tuesdays Only. Our cut off times for orders for given week end on Monday at 12PM.  If orders post after this time, they will be shipped the following week.
• Please use your tracking number to get status updates on your order.
• We do not accept returns. We will look to credit or refund accounts in this case.
• Local Pickup available, please send us an inquiry if interested in this option.

ARRIVE ALIVE GUARANTEE (have to receive shipment @1st delivery attempt to be eligible)

1.     Must have somebody present at address to receive the 1st delivery attempt.

2.     Please do not discard the deceased item without taking clear pictures first.

3.     Take 2 pictures of unopened clear fish bag with deceased item still inside and email to us within 2 hours of 1st delivery. Upon sending pictures, you can discard the item. NO PICTURES = NO REFUNDS OR CREDITS, NO EXCEPTIONS.

SHIPPING/HANDLING:

• Orders are packed and shipped on Mondays and some Tuesdays.
• All orders are expedited shipping.
• The box being shipped is labeled "LIVE FISH" to avoid potential delays.
• Orders are packed with ice in the SUMMER season and heat packs in the WINTER season.

ACCLIMATION: (very important) - It is important to acclimate the fish due to water parameters being different.

FLOAT METHOD:

• Float the sealed bag in the aquarium for 15 minutes. This will allow the temperature in bag to gradually adjust to the aquarium temperature.
• Open the bag and roll down the top edge of bag to create an air pocket. This will allow the bag to float on the water's surface.
• Add a small amount of water (1-2 oz) from the aquarium into bag every 5 minutes for about 20 minutes; after 25 minutes, carefully net the fish and introduce into the aquarium.
• Goal here is to gradually introduce the fish to new water parameters with as minimal stress as possible.
• If still unsure with the acclimation process, please look up online for further instruction.