Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Genus:	Buccochromis
Type locality:	Lake Malawi
Biotope:	Sandy habitats, often near Vallisneria beds. Occasionally occurs in intermediate habitat with scattered rocks. Mostly observed at depths between 15 and 30 m, but may occur shallower.
Geographic distribution:	Southern half of Lake Malawi, with confirmed records from the southeastern arm and no reliable records north of Chizumulu Island.
Typical adult size:	Males up to 35 cm, females up to about 27 cm
Sexual dimorphism:	Strongly dimorphic. Males develop a blue head, orange flanks, yellow dorsal fin with orange margin and black pelvic fins. Females are yellowish-silvery with a dark diagonal stripe and yellow fins.
Recommended aquarium size:	At least 1000 L
Aquarium setup:	Very large aquarium (minimum length around 250 cm). Extensive open sandy areas with a few scattered rocks. Vallisneria can be added but is optional. Emphasis on swimming space rather than structure.
Diet:	Piscivorous predator feeding mainly on smaller sand-dwelling cichlids.
Breeding:	Maternal mouthbrooder. Males defend temporary spawning sites over sand or rubble. Spawning occurs directly on the substrate without bower construction.
Aggression:	Generally calm toward similarly sized fishes. Smaller species are regarded as prey. Territorial during breeding.
Special notes:	Large sand-dwelling predator often confused with Buccochromis nototaenia. Best kept only in very large aquaria with robust tankmates.