Rocky to intermediate habitat; occurs at various depths between rock-dominated and mixed sandy–rocky areas
Geographic distribution:
Restricted area between Meponda and Makanjila Point, around Ntekete, Lake Malawi
Typical adult size:
Males up to 10 cm; females around 8 cm
Recommended aquarium size:
Minimum 250 litres
Aquarium setup:
Fine sand substrate with scattered rock groups; provide at least one cave per male; harem structure of 1 male with 3–4 females recommended, larger groups possible only in sufficiently large aquaria; all males should be introduced simultaneously
Diet:
Omnivorous; juveniles mainly feed on plankton, adults predominantly graze aufwuchs
Aggression:
Aggressive towards conspecifics and other species; pronounced intraspecific aggression
Special notes:
Undescribed form; must not be confused with Cynotilapia sp. 'lion'; known only from the Ntekete area and nearby localities
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