Size: Males often reach 15cm (6 in.). Females are somewhat smaller.

Environment: This fish tolerates pHs from 6.5 to 8.0 while preferring pHs at near the higher end (basic) of this range. Water hardness is not critical, but it prefers very hard water. Optimum temperature ranges from 20-30°C (68-85°F).

Temperament: This fish is not aggressive for a cichlid, but males can be quarrelsome among themselves. They are active fish, constantly interacting with other fish. It can be kept either in a large single species aquarium or in active community aquaria with fish with similar behavior and requirements.

Spawning: We maintain breeding colonies of this cichlid consisting of a single male with six to twenty females. This cichlid is a maternal mouth brooder. At 30°C (85°F), females carry eggs and fry for about 21 days. Broods are smaller than those of most cichlids, but can be as large as 40 fry for mature females. We do not strip eggs or fry, but allow the females to carry them to natural release. The fry are large and can eat commercial food, Daphnia, brine shrimp nauplii, etc. immediately. The fry are rarely bothered by the adults, but in our system, fry are provided abundant cover just to be sure. 

Additional Information: For more information about this species, click on one of the following article names:
     http://malawicichlids.com/mw09000g.htm

Additional Photos: For additional photos of this species, click on one of the following photo locations:
     

Page last modified April 25, 2005.