malawi.si

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
By genera By locations Locations Maps Posters Interactive map
Lethrinops auritus 'Chembe Beach'.jpg Lethrinops auritus 'Masasa Reef'.jpg Lethrinops auritus 'Nkhata Bay'.jpg Lethrinops auritus 'Otter Point'.jpg
Previous pageNext pageLethrinops auritus 'Masasa Reef'
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.

Photo gallery

Photo: © Ad Konings
malawi.si
Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
All images are used with permission of the authors. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
Quick links
By genera By locations Locations Maps Posters Interactive map
Contact
Email Facebook Instagram
© malawi.si