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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Placidochromis sp. 'electra type' Nkhomo Reef.jpg Protomelas taeniolatus 'Nkhomo Reef'.jpg Taeniochromis holotaenia 'Nkhomo Reef'.jpg
Previous pageTaeniochromis holotaenia 'Nkhomo Reef'
Genus: Taeniochromis
Type locality: Lake Malawi
Biotope: Sandy-bottom areas, typically at 15–35 m depth and reported as most common around 15–18 m; also described from a sand zone bordering the transition zone, with breeding arenas associated with stones in the shallower, sand-running transition zone. Some habitats include small patches of aquatic plants such as Vallisneria.
Geographic distribution: Widespread around Lake Malawi in suitable habitats.
Typical adult size: Up to 170 mm standard length, with reported maximum total length of about 20–22 cm.
Sexual dimorphism: Males are typically larger and more colourful than females and tend to have longer fins, although these differences may be subtle in sexually inactive males.
Recommended aquarium size: An aquarium volume of 800 L or more with a minimum tank length of 200 cm is recommended.
Aquarium setup: Use sandy substrate with only a few large, scattered stones to reflect a sand-running transition zone; low, loose stands of Vallisneria may be used if they do not significantly reduce open swimming space.
Diet: A carnivorous pursuit hunter that targets small fishes; fish remains have been documented in examined stomach contents, and invertebrates are also indicated as possible prey. Pack-hunting has been reported, with groups that may include over one hundred individuals, sometimes alongside other species.
Breeding: Males develop blue breeding colours with yellowish fins and excavate a very shallow dip in sand, usually near a rock and sometimes beneath one. Mouthbrooding females remain over sand and may be encountered in small groups.
Aggression: Generally described as not very aggressive and relatively non-territorial in aquaria, though males defend spawning sites during the breeding period. Small tankmates that fit in the mouth may be consumed.
Special notes: Diagnosed by a thick, dark longitudinal band along the flank that continues into an interocular bar; upper-jaw teeth are simple and closely spaced. It is not commonly imported, and males may take a long time to colour; in aquaria they often retain the juvenile/female longitudinal band for extended periods.

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