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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Mylochromis plagiotaenia 'Mdoka'.jpg Mylochromis plagiotaenia 'Mvunguti'.jpg Mylochromis plagiotaenia 'Otter Island'.jpg
Next pageMylochromis plagiotaenia 'Mdoka'
Genus: Mylochromis
Type locality: Lake Malawi
Biotope: Shallow, sediment-rich bays, mainly in areas with extensive Vallisneria beds; occurs at depths of 7–15 m.
Geographic distribution: Restricted to the southern and southeastern shores of Lake Malawi.
Typical adult size: Usually not exceeding 12 cm total length; females about 10 cm total length.
Recommended aquarium size: An aquarium volume of 400 L with a minimum length of 120 cm is recommended.
Aquarium setup: Provide a sandy bottom with as much open sand as possible, interrupted by several larger stones. Parts of the aquarium should be planted with Vallisneria. Keep in larger groups, for example three males with seven females, and house only with other peaceful cichlid species.
Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on various invertebrates and other small organisms, occasionally also on plankton.
Breeding: Breeding males clear a small area in plant beds, usually about 10 cm in diameter, exposing the underlying sand. In other locations a cleared patch of about 20–30 cm diameter may be created on sand next to a small object. Mouthbrooding females group together over sandy areas. Breeding males may be present throughout the year.
Aggression: Peaceful and best maintained with other calm cichlid species.
Special notes: Characterized by an oblique black stripe extending from the nape to the base of the caudal fin, sometimes broken into about ten small spots.

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Photo: © Morgan Malvezzi
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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