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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Pseudotropheus lucerna 'Nkhata Bay'.jpg Pseudotropheus sp. 'dwarf nkhata' Nkhata Bay.jpg Pseudotropheus sp. 'williamsi north' Nkhata Bay.jpg Rhamphochromis sp. 'grey' Nkhata Bay.jpg Rhamphochromis sp. 'longsnout' Nkhata Bay.jpg
Previous pageNext pagePseudotropheus sp. 'williamsi north' Nkhata Bay
Genus: Pseudotropheus
Biotope: Intermediate habitat associated with rocky areas, similar to other members of the Pseudotropheus williamsi group found in the upper rocky zone of Lake Malawi.
Geographic distribution: Reported mainly from Makonde and Manda in Tanzania and from Nkhata Bay on the central western coast of Lake Malawi.
Typical adult size: Up to 17 cm in males and 15 cm in females.
Sexual dimorphism: Males are more colorful and develop longer fins and larger ocelli, whereas females are less intensely colored.
Recommended aquarium size: An aquarium volume of 500 L is recommended.
Aquarium setup: A large aquarium with extensive rockwork and numerous shelters is required.
Diet: Omnivorous. Opportunistic feeding includes insects and their larvae, zooplankton, detritus and Aufwuchs. Insects are taken at the surface and sometimes above it, with individuals jumping out of the water to capture prey.
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder. Spawning occurs in the male’s territory with circular movements and a T-shaped posture. Eggs are collected in the female’s mouth and fertilized there.
Aggression: Aggressive within the species. Toward other species aggression is mainly observed during spawning periods.
Special notes: Characterized by predominantly ochre-yellow coloration. Northern Tanzanian populations are mainly ochre-yellow with slight blue on the lips, while central Tanzanian populations are mainly blue with yellow patches. Blue lips are retained in males from Nkhata Bay.

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