Scientific name: Paracyprichromis nigripinnis Common name: Blue Neon Family: Cichlidae Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 11 cm (3.94 - 4.33 inch) 0 14 Recommended pH range for the species: 8 - 8.5 Recommended water hardness (dGH): 11 - 20°N (196.43 - 357.14ppm) 0°C 32°F 30°C 86°F Recommended temperature: 23 - 25 °C (73.4 - 77°F) The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning Where the species comes from: Africa Temperament to its own species: peaceful Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful Usual place in the tank: Middle levels Food and feeding Although Blue Neons will accept quality flakes or small pellets, they much prefer to eat small live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and mysis. Origin Africa, Blue Neons are to be found in Lake Tanganyika Sexing Adult males tend to be larger than the females. Both sexes are very colorful but the males tend to have more intense coloration. Breeding Paracyprichromis nigripinnis will often choose to deposit their eggs on the side of rocks or a piece of slate that had been leant against the tank glass. The female will mouth brood the eggs which are quite large. Normally they will lay a batch of 10-12 at a time. The fry will also be large when they have been released and will accept crushed flake or newly hatched brine shrimp immediately. Lifespan The expected life span for Paracyprichromis nigripinnis is 5-8 years. Short description The blue neon is a slow moving fish that prefers dimmer lighting. They will swim close to the rockwork, often swimming at strange angles.
