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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Otopharynx styrax 'Ntekete'.jpg Placidochromis sp. 'phenochilus gissel' Ntekete.jpg Protomelas annectens 'Ntekete'.jpg Protomelas fenestratus 'Ntekete'.jpg Sciaenochromis sp. 'spilostichus deep-water' Ntekete.jpg
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Genus: Protomelas
Type locality: Domira Bay, Lake Malawi
Biotope: Sandy habitats, rarely intermediate habitats. Breeding males may occupy territories near rocks but are also seen over open sand. Usually found in shallow water together with large sand-dwelling cichlids.
Geographic distribution: Occurs throughout Lake Malawi.
Typical adult size: Males reach about 20 cm total length. Females remain approximately one fifth smaller.
Sexual dimorphism: Dominant males are blue with dark unpaired fins and often display vertical bars on the anterior flanks. Females are silvery; dominant females may darken and show vertical bars but do not become blue.
Aquarium setup: It is recommended to keep only one male per aquarium and to avoid combining with species that closely resemble the male breeding coloration.
Diet: Opportunistic feeder attracted to disturbed sediment. Feeds on small arthropods and cladocerans measuring about 0.3–0.8 mm, often filtering debris clouds produced by larger sand-sifting cichlids.
Breeding: Spawning may occur on small platforms near rocks, though many individuals are non-territorial. Eggs are fertilized outside the female’s mouth. Mouthbrooding females remain on open sand and guard the offspring there.
Aggression: Males are frequently territorial in aquarium conditions and show increased aggression toward similar-looking males.
Special notes: Characterized by unicuspid buccal teeth and a high occipital crest. Large specimens may develop a head hump, though less pronounced than in Cyrtocara moorii. Known locally as “Kabibi”.

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