malawi.si

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
By genera By locations Locations Maps Posters Interactive map
Otopharynx sp. 'auromarginatus goldhead' Nkolongwe.jpg Petrotilapia chrysos 'Nkolongwe'.jpg Pseudotropheus sp. 'socolofi nkolongwe' Nkolongwe.jpg Tramitichromis sp. 'maculae' Nkolongwe.jpg Tropheops sp. 'elongatus metangula' N'kolongwe.jpg
Previous pageNext pagePseudotropheus sp. 'socolofi nkolongwe' Nkolongwe
Genus: Pseudotropheus
Biotope: Very shallow intermediate habitat, found at depths no greater than about 3 m; males defend holes dug under and between rocks.
Geographic distribution: Only known from the southeastern coast of Lake Malawi in Mozambique, around Nkolongwe.
Typical adult size: Around 10 cm total length.
Sexual dimorphism: Males are larger than females, with broader fins and larger anal ocelli; males are plain sky blue, while females are duller grey-blue.
Diet: Anterior tooth shape indicates adaptation to algae pulling; likely feeds mainly on aufwuchs and possibly small invertebrates. In captivity, feeding should be sparing and mainly herbivorous to prevent obesity and intestinal disorders.
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; eggs and fry are incubated for about 3 weeks, with release occurring within about one week depending on conditions.
Aggression: Strongly territorial; males actively chase conspecific intruders from their territories, though generally less dangerous to tank mates than some other highly aggressive mbuna.
Special notes: Recognizable by the plain sky-blue coloration of adult males and a stretched, rectangular body profile. Differs from the zebra complex by body shape and from Pseudotropheus socolofi by a broader mouth and strongly concave snout. Jaws are strong and protruding, bearing densely set bicuspid teeth; males show a yellow-orange hint on the throat.

Photo gallery

Photo: © Ad Konings
malawi.si
Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
All images are used with permission of the authors. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
Quick links
By genera By locations Locations Maps Posters Interactive map
Contact
Email Facebook Instagram
© malawi.si