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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Chindongo cyaneus 'Chinyamwezi'<br><font color=gray>Pseudotropheus cyaneus 'Chinyamwezi'</font>
Genus: Chindongo
Type locality: Chinyamwezi Island, Lake Malawi
Biotope: Rocky habitat. Most commonly found at depths of 3–17 m, but recorded down to about 43 m. Males defend algal feeding territories.
Geographic distribution: Endemic to Chinyamwezi Island, Lake Malawi.
Typical adult size: Up to about 10 cm in the wild (females smaller); up to about 12 cm or more in aquaria.
Sexual dimorphism: Males are much more colorful, showing light lavender-blue coloration with a yellow head. Females are brownish, smaller, and have shorter fins.
Recommended aquarium size: At least 500 L; significantly larger tanks required if more than one male is kept.
Aquarium setup: Extensive rockwork with many hiding places. Large territories must be possible. Multiple males only feasible in very large aquaria (around 2 m length or more).
Diet: Primarily an aufwuchs grazer feeding on algae. Opportunistically consumes plankton and other animal matter when available. In aquaria, mainly vegetable-based food is recommended.
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder. Males prepare a pit beneath rocks and aggressively defend the spawning territory. Females incubate eggs and fry for about three weeks.
Aggression: Extremely aggressive, comparable to Chindongo bellicosus, though slightly less so. Both males and females defend territories. Suitable only for experienced keepers.
Special notes: Very rare in the aquarium hobby due to its origin within Malawi National Park and restricted export. One of the most aggressive members of the elongatus group.

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Photo: © Ad Konings
Photo: © Ad Konings
Photo: © Larry Johnson
Photo: © Pete Barnes
Photo: © Mark Smith
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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