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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Cheilochromis euchilus.jpg Cheilochromis euchilus 'Maleri Island'.jpg Cheilochromis euchilus 'Matema'.jpg Cheilochromis euchilus 'Mbenji Island'.jpg
Previous pageNext pageCheilochromis euchilus 'Maleri Island'
Genus: Cheilochromis
Type locality: Deep Bay, Chilumba, Lake Malawi.
Biotope: Intermediate habitat, mainly above sandy substrate. Common in shallow water, usually not deeper than about 8 m.
Geographic distribution: Lake Malawi; lake-wide distribution and regularly encountered at many localities.
Typical adult size: Males up to about 25 cm total length. Females up to about 19 cm.
Sexual dimorphism: Males grow larger and develop breeding coloration. Females remain smaller.
Recommended aquarium size: At least 800 L.
Aquarium setup: Minimum tank length around 200 cm. Fine sand substrate with a few larger rocks. Leave plenty of open swimming space while still providing some rocky structure.
Diet: Carnivorous. Feeds mainly on invertebrates. Uses thick, fleshy lips to seal against the substrate and suck out prey, especially when feeding from rocks.
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder. Breeding males are sometimes seen in shallow intermediate habitat. Bower construction has not been observed. Mouthbrooding females hide among rocks and are usually solitary.
Aggression: Generally a relatively peaceful cichlid. Can be very aggressive toward very similar-looking species.
Special notes: Characterized by thick, fleshy lips forming finger-like projections on both jaws, an adaptation to its feeding strategy. Lip development varies depending on feeding substrate; sand-feeding individuals may show reduced lip swelling.

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Photo: © Hagebycikliden
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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