malawi.si

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
By genera By locations Locations Maps Posters Interactive map
Cyathochromis obliquidens 'Chiloelo'.jpg Cyathochromis obliquidens 'Cobwe'.jpg Cyathochromis obliquidens 'Narungu'.jpg
Previous pageNext pageCyathochromis obliquidens 'Cobwe'
Genus: Cyathochromis
Biotope: Shallow vegetated zones of Lake Malawi. Always associated with aquatic plants, most commonly Vallisneria. Territorial males often occupy areas near rocks but frequently defend territories directly among plants.
Geographic distribution: Widespread throughout Lake Malawi wherever shallow bays with submerged vegetation are present.
Typical adult size: Males up to about 12 cm, females around 10 cm total length. In aquarium conditions, both sexes may grow slightly larger.
Sexual dimorphism: Males are larger and more intensely colored than females. Females remain smaller and less vivid.
Recommended aquarium size: 350 L.
Aquarium setup: Use fine sand as substrate. Provide extensive rockwork to create shelters and territorial boundaries. Plant selected areas with Vallisneria or similar hardy plants. Best kept as a harem species: one male with at least 3–4 females.
Diet: Herbivorous mbuna with a highly specialized feeding strategy. Feeds mainly on algae growing on plant leaves rather than scraping rock aufwuchs. Possesses characteristic knife-like bicuspid teeth used to cut algae from plant surfaces.
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder. Breeding males dig burrows beneath stones or excavate spawning pits under or between Vallisneria roots. Territories are aggressively defended during breeding.
Aggression: Males are highly territorial and aggressive toward conspecific males. Never keep more than one male in the same aquarium. Females and non-breeding males form loose groups.
Special notes: Cyathochromis obliquidens is the only species in the genus Cyathochromis. The genus name refers to the distinctive, obliquely oriented teeth. Coloration resembles some Tropheops species (e.g. “weed” or “broad mouth” types), but body shape—especially the elongated, protruding lower jaw and head profile—is unique. Assessed as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List.

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