Orange Leleupi Cichlid
The bright orange leleupi cichlid is a deep orange color, different from the lemon leleupi, which is more of a dull orange to yellow. Neolamprologus leleupi were the first known Tanganyikans bred for the aquarium. The leleupi offered here are bred for extremely orange color.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Neolamprologus leleupi |
|---|---|
| Origin | Lake Tanganyika, Africa |
| Care Level | Easy to moderate |
| Temperament | Territorial |
| Adult Size | Up to 4″ |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years |
| Diet | Omnivore |
FAQ
What makes the orange leleupi cichlid different from the lemon leleupi?
The orange leleupi cichlid has a deep orange color, while the lemon leleupi is more of a dull orange to yellow.
Where does the leleupi cichlid originate from?
Lake Tanganyika, Africa.
Is the leleupi cichlid suitable for beginners?
It has an easy to moderate care level, making it suitable for experienced hobbyists with some knowledge of cichlid care. However, due to its territorial nature, it requires proper tank setup and compatible tank mates.

Leah Howard –
The orange color is vibrant and stands out in the tank. I’ve had them for six months and they are active and healthy. They do need a good-sized tank with plenty of hiding spots to reduce aggression.
Jonathan Hudson –
Great coloration and hardy once acclimated. I noticed they become more territorial as they mature, so I added a few rock structures and a few compatible species to keep them calm.
Harry Lewis –
These fish are a visual highlight in my 55-gallon tank. The deep orange color is very striking. I feed them a mix of flakes and live foods, and they seem to thrive on a varied diet.