African Bullhead

Lophiobagrus cyclurus is a small catfish living in the rocky areas of Lake Tanganyika. It is recognized by its dark brown to black body, broad head, small eyes and rounded tail; "cyclurus" in its scientific name also refers to the rounded tail. Adults stay at around 10 cm. Important warning: when stressed it releases a skin secretion that is toxic to other fish; being together with other fish, especially in a transport bag or small container, can kill them. Always transport it in a separate bag.

• At least 100 liters for a pair.
• Caves made from rock piles; a pair claims one cave as its nest.
• 24–27°C, pH 7.8–9.0, hard water; Tanganyika aquarium parameters.
• Fine sand substrate and good oxygenation.

Omnivorous. It eats sinking granules and tablets, frozen bloodworms, mysis and brine shrimp. Because it is nocturnal, feed in the evening.

Nocturnal and territorial; it defends its cave resolutely, especially when it has young. It eats the fry of other fish and dwarf shrimp. It breeds in pairs in the aquarium; the eggs are laid in a cave and the parents guard the young for a while.

Good companions: Tanganyika cichlids that keep to their own cave territory (Neolamprologus, Julidochromis), Tanganyika Synodontis.

Avoid: dwarf shrimp, species that need soft water, crowded aquariums with a shortage of caves.