Description
Scientific Name: Altolamprologus calvus Common Name: Black Calvus, Pearly Calvus Origin: Lake Tanganyika, East Africa
Physical Characteristics The Black Calvus has one of the most distinct shapes in the aquarium world.
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Body Shape: Its body is incredibly thin (compressed from side to side), allowing it to squeeze deep into rock crevices where other fish cannot reach. It has a high back and a mouth that points sharply downward.
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Coloration: Mature adults are a deep, jet-black or dark charcoal color. They are covered in small, white/bluish dots that look like stars in a night sky.
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Size: Males can grow up to 5–6 inches (13–15 cm), while females stay smaller, usually around 4 inches.
Behavior and Temperament
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The “Stealth Hunter”: In the wild, they are specialized predators. They do not chase prey; instead, they drift slowly and angle their bodies to strike into crevices to eat shrimp and small fish.
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Temperament: They are generally peaceful toward other fish of similar size but can be territorial with their own kind. They are not aggressive chasers like many other cichlids, but they will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouth (like fry).
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Movement: They are slow, deliberate swimmers that often hover motionless in the water.
Care and Habitat
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Tank Setup: They need a tank with plenty of rocks and caves to feel secure. If they don’t have hiding spots, they will be stressed and lose their dark color.
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Water Conditions: As Lake Tanganyika natives, they require hard, alkaline water.
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pH: 8.0 – 9.0 (High pH is critical)
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Temperature: 75°F – 80°F (24°C – 27°C)
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Diet: They are carnivores. They prefer meaty foods like frozen brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and bloodworms.
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