Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

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Sciaenochromis benthicola 'Domira Bay'.jpg

Sciaenochromis benthicola (unknown locality)

Genus:	Sciaenochromis
Type locality:	Kaporo, Lake Malawi
Biotope:	Primarily associated with sandy habitats and sand areas of the transition zone. It is considered a deep-water species and has been observed breeding at considerable depths.
Geographic distribution:	Recorded from Tanzanian waters, including Mdoka, and from the southeastern arm of the lake. It is regarded as having a lake-wide distribution.
Typical adult size:	Males reach approximately 18 cm total length, while females attain about 14 cm.
Sexual dimorphism:	Males grow larger and display breeding coloration, and possess distinct egg-spots on the anal fin.
Recommended aquarium size:	A minimum aquarium volume of 600 l with a tank length of at least 170 cm is recommended.
Aquarium setup:	Provide extensive sandy areas as the dominant feature of the layout. A lightly structured transition zone with some rock formations, crevices and passages may be included, but large open sand surfaces are essential.
Diet:	Carnivorous, feeding on smaller fishes and juveniles of other cichlids. In aquaria a protein-rich diet is required, including live or frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, mysis and Artemia.
Breeding:	Maternal mouthbrooder. The species breeds at deep levels. No detailed description of spawning structures is provided in the available information.
Aggression:	Described as relatively peaceful outside the breeding period, though males may become more assertive during courtship. It should not be combined with very weak or overly submissive species.
Special notes:	Considered extremely rare in the hobby and seldom available. It has been compared in general temperament to Sciaenochromis fryeri. A few specimens collected in Tanzanian waters have been bred in aquaria.