Species & Group: A geographic/local variant of Altolamprologus compressiceps — one of the laterally compressed predatory cichlids from Lake Tanganyika (East Africa).
Common Label on Page: “Kilima (Mandarin)” — this likely refers to a ’Mandarin’ color form of this variant.
Habitat: Rocky shoreline biotope of Lake Tanganyika, dwelling among stones and crevices at depths from ~1–15 m.
Size: Males reach about 15 cm (≈6″) total length; females are smaller (about 9 cm ≈ 3.5″).
Aquarium: Recommended 200 L+ tank with lots of rocks and caves to mimic the natural environment.
Diet: Carnivorous — feeds on small crustaceans, invertebrates, and juvenile fish in the wild.
Behavior & Breeding: Territorial with its own species; substrate spawning in cracks and caves with female guarding eggs/fry and male defending nearby area.
Similarity to Other Species: Very similar to Altolamprologus calvus, but A. compressiceps has a shorter snout, more turned-up mouth, more pronounced bars (less extensive spotting) and subtle body shape differences.
You can view our actual stock video of Altolamprologus compressiceps 'Mandarin Rubumba' or 'Titcha Mandarin' in YouTube and Instagram using the link below.