Why is my Calvus growing so slowly?

Calvus cichlids are notorious for their incredibly slow growth rates. Even with optimal water quality and a high-protein diet, it is completely normal for them to take over two years to reach just 7-8 cm in length.

How do I tell the difference between a Calvus and a Compressiceps?

While very similar, the Calvus (*Altolamprologus calvus*) has a scaleless patch on its forehead between the eyes (hence 'bald'), whereas *A. compressiceps* has scales there. The Calvus also has a slightly more elongated snout and less deep body profile.

Can I keep Calvus with Mbuna cichlids?

It is not recommended. Mbuna are from Lake Malawi, require a largely herbivorous diet, and are far too aggressive and fast-moving. They will easily outcompete the slow, deliberate Calvus for food.

How can I sex my Calvus Cichlid?

Sexing is difficult when they are young. As adults, males grow significantly larger (up to 15 cm) than females (usually around 10 cm) and develop longer, more pointed dorsal and anal fins.

Will they eat my smaller fish?

Yes. Calvus are highly efficient ambush predators with surprisingly large mouths. Any fish or fry small enough to fit into their mouths will eventually be eaten.

FreshwaterTropicalIntermediate

Calvus Cichlid

Altolamprologus calvus

An unmistakable, laterally compressed cichlid from Lake Tanganyika known for its striking pearly spots and highly specialised predatory lifestyle.

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Ideal Conditions

Temperature: 24 – 28 °C
pH range: 7.8 – 9
Hardness: 10 – 25 dGH
Adult size: 10 – 15 cm
150L for a pair, 250L+ for a community: 150 litres+
Lifespan: 8 – 12 years
Diet: Carnivore
Water flow: moderate
Preferred setup: Rocky terrain with numerous vertical and horizontal crevices, caves, and shells.

About the Calvus Cichlid

The Calvus Cichlid (*Altolamprologus calvus*) is one of Lake Tanganyika’s most distinctive residents. Its extremely laterally compressed body, steep forehead, and large mouth are perfectly adapted for a highly specific niche: hunting between narrow rock fissures. The name 'calvus' is Latin for 'bald', referencing the scaleless patch between the eyes that helps distinguish it from its close relative, *A. compressiceps*. They are deliberate, slow-moving fish that possess an almost prehistoric charm.

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Is it right for your tank?

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Where Calvus Cichlid comes from

Native range

Lake Tanganyika

Countries / regions

Zambia, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Habitat

Steep, rocky coastlines and rubble zones within Lake Tanganyika, typically at depths of 3 to 40 metres.

Various colour morphs correspond directly to distinct geographic collection points around the lake.

Similar species

Compressiceps Cichlid
Altolamprologus compressiceps
Fasciatus Cichlid
Altolamprologus fasciatus

We’re adding more full species guides as the catalogue grows.

Compatible tank mates

Reviewed guidance based on this species' recorded traits.

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Cyprichromis
Cyprichromis leptosoma
Occupy the upper water column and are generally too large to be viewed as prey by adult Calvus.
Great
Julidochromis
Julidochromis spp.
Share the same rocky habitat requirements and can hold their own territorially without overwhelming the Calvus.
Great
Cuckoo Catfish
Synodontis multipunctatus
Excellent Rift Lake scavengers, but they may attempt to parasitise the breeding efforts of the cichlids or eat their eggs.
Compatible with caution
Shell Dwellers
Neolamprologus multifasciatus
Adults can coexist in larger setups, but the Calvus is an expert fry predator and will heavily predate on shell dweller offspring.
Compatible with caution
Mbuna Cichlids
Lake Malawi Mbuna are far too boisterous, aggressive, and herbivorous for the slow-moving, carnivorous Calvus.
Not recommended
Small Tetras
Require soft, acidic water and are small enough to be eaten by a fully grown Calvus.
Not recommended

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