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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Lethrinops auritus 'Chembe Beach'.jpg Lethrinops auritus 'Masasa Reef'.jpg Lethrinops auritus 'Nkhata Bay'.jpg
Next pageLethrinops auritus 'Chembe Beach'
Genus: Lethrinops
Type locality: Lake Nyassa [Domira Bay].
Biotope: Sandy to muddy substrates. The species inhabits open sediment areas of the lake.
Geographic distribution: Apparently restricted to the southern part of Lake Malawi in suitable habitats, with an isolated record from the northern end of the lake.
Typical adult size: Up to about 9 cm total length.
Sexual dimorphism: Males are larger and develop more intense breeding coloration than females.
Recommended aquarium size: Around 400 litres.
Aquarium setup: Large areas of fine sand are essential. Sandy zones can be interrupted with a few larger stones, while still leaving extensive open substrate. Best kept in groups with multiple females per male and only with other peaceful cichlids.
Diet: Carnivorous. Feeds by sifting sand and mud for small invertebrates, crustaceans and insect larvae.
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder. Breeding males construct elaborate spawning structures in muddy sediment, consisting of multiple mud cones arranged in a circular formation with a central spawning pit.
Aggression: Peaceful both within the species and towards other species. Low intraspecific aggression allows several males to display coloration within a group.
Special notes: A small sand-sifting Lethrinops characterized by relatively large eyes and complex breeding structures built in muddy substrate.

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