Intermediate habitat; lives over sandy substrate near rocks, from shallow water to deeper zones (approximately 2–30 m)
Geographic distribution:
Known from several localities in Lake Malawi; most commonly exported from Lion’s Cove, also reported from Sanga and Mara Rocks
Typical adult size:
Males up to 9 cm; females up to 7 cm
Sexual dimorphism:
Sexes similarly coloured; males show more intense coloration, grow larger and have longer fins
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; multiple males possible only if introduced simultaneously in larger aquaria
Diet:
Omnivorous; feeds mainly on plankton in the wild
Breeding:
Maternal mouthbrooder; males defend territories and may build saucer-shaped nests over sand
Aggression:
Aggressive both towards conspecifics and other species; strong territorial behaviour
Special notes:
Undescribed form; notable for maintaining territories even away from rocks over open sand; avoid keeping with closely related species such as Cynotilapia axelrodi or Metriaclima pulpican due to high hybridisation risk
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