Description

tanganyika

Altolamprologus Compressiceps Gold Head Kantalamba F1

Altolamprologus compressiceps “Gold Head – Kantalamba”, a striking Tanganyikan predator known for its flattened body, golden facial coloration, and stealthy hunting style.

🐟 Altolamprologus compressiceps “Gold Head – Kantalamba” — Species Description
📏 Size

Adult size:

13–16 cm (5–6.5 inches)

Males are larger and heavier-bodied

Females remain smaller and slimmer

Slightly bulkier than A. calvus

🌍 Occurrence (Natural Origin)

Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, East Africa

Kantalamba is a true geographic locality

Habitat:

Rocky reefs and cliff faces

Crevice-rich environments

Found at moderate depths

Uses narrow cracks to ambush prey

“Gold Head” refers to the yellow–gold facial and head coloration typical of this locality.

🎨 Appearance

Body:

Extremely laterally compressed

Taller profile than calvus

Coloration:

Dark brown to black body

Golden to yellow head and face

Pattern:

Irregular pale spotting along the body

Fins:

Often dark with light edging

Scales:

Thick, rough, armor-like texture

🍽️ Diet (Preferred Food)

In the wild:

Carnivorous ambush predator

Feeds on:

Small fish

Fry

Crustaceans

Invertebrates hidden in rocks

In the aquarium:

Quality carnivore pellets

Frozen foods:

Mysis shrimp

Krill (small pieces)

Chopped shrimp or prawns

Occasional live foods (safe sources only)

⚠️ Avoid fatty foods and feeder fish.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

Calm, slow-moving, highly observant

Not aggressive toward similar-sized fish

Highly predatory toward small tankmates

Territorial only around its chosen crevice

Best kept:

As a pair

Or with larger, peaceful Tanganyika species

🏞️ Preferred Aquarium Conditions

Tank size:

Pair: 250–300 L (65–75 gallons)

pH: 8.0–9.0

Hardness: Hard to very hard

Temperature: 24–26 °C (75–79 °F)

Substrate: Sand

Décor: Heavy rockwork with deep cracks and caves

Dim to moderate lighting recommended

🧾 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Altolamprologus compressiceps
Locality Kantalamba
Variant Gold Head
Lake Tanganyika
Adult Size 13–16 cm (5–6.5 in)
Diet Carnivorous
Temperament Calm but predatory
Best Setup Rocky Tanganyika tank

⚠️ Compatibility Notes

Do NOT mix with:

Malawi cichlids (Mbuna, Peacocks, Haps)

Small shell dwellers or fry-producing species

Suitable companions (with size awareness):

Cyphotilapia frontosa

Julidochromis

Larger Neolamprologus species

🧠 Expert Tip

Compared to Altolamprologus calvus, compressiceps is:

Slightly larger

More robust

Often bolder once settled

But it still rewards patience and stable conditions over flashy action.