Not furry, but we like them anyway.

Calvus Cichlid

Altolamprologus calvus (Poll, 1978)

Also called Calvus, Pearly Lamprologus, Perlhuhnbarsch, Kaubao (local name)

SpeciesShort profile

From Endemic to the rocky shores and islands of southern/southwestern Lake Tanganyika.1 2 3

At a glance the quick version

Length13 to 13.8 cm1 2 3

Sizemedium

Remarkable flat body shape

Elegant pearl-spotted pattern

Calm towards fish too big to swallow

1 2

Looks how to spot one

Very flat-sided, tall-finned cichlid

An unusual, wafer-thin cichlid with a tall dorsal fin, a long snout and a body covered in rows of pearly white spots. The flattened shape lets it slip into narrow cracks.1 3 2

Coloursblack with white pearl spotswhite ('Chaitika')yellowblack pectoral formother locality forms (e.g. Black Zambia, Black Zaire)2 3

Personality what they are like

Quiet and somewhat shy, peaceful with fish too large to be eaten, but protective of its own space. Not a match for very rough cichlids.2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A patient, slow-moving stalker that hovers near rocks and probes crevices for prey.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry; tank-bred fish adapt more easily than wild ones.2

Home where they are happiest

Large tank with lots of rocks forming caves and narrow crevices. Temperature 23 to 27 C, pH 7.5 to 9.0, hardness 8 to 20 dGH.2 1

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Hunts small shrimps and other crustaceans in the wild. Offer meaty live and frozen foods; many will not take dry food.1 2

Company who they like around

Can share a large Tanganyika tank with Julidochromis, Neolamprologus, Cyprichromis and Tanganyikan Synodontis.2

The story where it all began

Described by Max Poll in 1978, the calvus has become a classic of Tanganyika aquariums thanks to its striking shape and the many colour forms found at different places along the lake shore.1 2 3

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
The name 'calvus' is Latin for bald, after a scale-free area on the head.2
2
Females choose spawning caves so small that only they can squeeze in.2
3
Its extremely flattened body lets it hunt inside narrow cracks and shallow caves.1
4
A female guards a clutch of around 200 eggs.1

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List: Near Threatened (assessed 22 February 2025)1
Taxonomy: Described by Poll in 19781

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Calvus Cichlid. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

FeedingSmall amounts once or twice a dayevery day
Temperature checkevery day
Water changeAbout 25% of the waterevery week
Water testevery week
Glass cleanevery week
Filter rinseRinse in old tank water, never tap waterevery month

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Calvus Cichlid?

Feed your Calvus Cichlid small amounts once or twice daily, as Furry Diary's starting plan suggests. Offer meaty live and frozen foods, since many won't take dry food.2 1 Pet Wiki plan

What does a Calvus Cichlid eat, and what should it never eat?

Offer meaty live and frozen foods like small shrimps, which mimic its natural diet. Many Calvus Cichlids will not accept dry food, so it's best to avoid that.2 1

How much space does a Calvus Cichlid need?

A large tank is needed, but exact size depends on the fish's adult size and setup. For specific recommendations, ask a good breeder or an exotic-pet vet.

What temperature, light or water does a Calvus Cichlid need?

Keep water temperature between 23-27°C, pH 7.5-9.0, and hardness 8-20 dGH. Provide plenty of rocks for caves; light needs are not specified, but a natural day cycle works well.2 1

How often should I clean a Calvus Cichlid's home?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a weekly 25% water change, weekly glass cleaning, and a monthly filter rinse using old tank water. Always test water weekly to keep conditions stable. Pet Wiki plan

Can a Calvus Cichlid live with others?

Yes, it can share a large Tanganyika tank with peaceful species like Julidochromis, Neolamprologus, Cyprichromis, and Tanganyikan Synodontis. Avoid very rough cichlids, as it is shy and protective of its space.2

How long does a Calvus Cichlid live?

Lifespan varies depending on care and genetics. For a reliable estimate, ask a good breeder or an exotic-pet vet.

Can I handle a Calvus Cichlid?

Handling is not recommended for fish; they are sensitive to stress and injury. If you must move it, use a soft net and consult a vet for guidance.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

Frontosa Cichlid

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

FishBase: Altolamprologus calvus fishbase.seused for size, water, diet, IUCN, describer, body shape
Seriously Fish: Altolamprologus calvus seriouslyfish.comused for care, behaviour, colour forms, breeding, etymology
Wikipedia: Altolamprologus calvus en.wikipedia.orgused for local name, colour variants, distribution

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.