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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Otter Point.jpg Aulonocara jacobfreibergi 'Otter Point'.jpg Buccochromis rhoadesii 'Otter Point'.jpg Copadichromis borleyi 'Otter Point'.jpg Copadichromis mloto 'Otter Point'.jpg
Previous pageNext pageBuccochromis rhoadesii 'Otter Point'
Genus: Buccochromis
Type locality: Lake Malawi
Biotope: Sandy habitats, often near Vallisneria beds. Occasionally occurs in intermediate habitat with scattered rocks. Mostly observed at depths between 15 and 30 m, but may occur shallower.
Geographic distribution: Southern half of Lake Malawi, with confirmed records from the southeastern arm and no reliable records north of Chizumulu Island.
Typical adult size: Males up to 35 cm, females up to about 27 cm
Sexual dimorphism: Strongly dimorphic. Males develop a blue head, orange flanks, yellow dorsal fin with orange margin and black pelvic fins. Females are yellowish-silvery with a dark diagonal stripe and yellow fins.
Recommended aquarium size: At least 1000 L
Aquarium setup: Very large aquarium (minimum length around 250 cm). Extensive open sandy areas with a few scattered rocks. Vallisneria can be added but is optional. Emphasis on swimming space rather than structure.
Diet: Piscivorous predator feeding mainly on smaller sand-dwelling cichlids.
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder. Males defend temporary spawning sites over sand or rubble. Spawning occurs directly on the substrate without bower construction.
Aggression: Generally calm toward similarly sized fishes. Smaller species are regarded as prey. Territorial during breeding.
Special notes: Large sand-dwelling predator often confused with Buccochromis nototaenia. Best kept only in very large aquaria with robust tankmates.

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Photo: © Larry Johnson
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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