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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Cynotilapia sp. 'lion' Manda.jpg Cynotilapia sp. 'lion' Mara Rocks.jpg Cynotilapia sp. 'lion' Ngwasi.jpg Cynotilapia sp. 'lion' Sanga.jpg
Previous pageNext pageCynotilapia sp. 'lion' Ngwasi
Genus: Cynotilapia
Biotope: Intermediate habitat; lives over sandy substrate near rocks, from shallow water to deeper zones (approximately 2–30 m)
Geographic distribution: Known from several localities in Lake Malawi; most commonly exported from Lion’s Cove, also reported from Sanga and Mara Rocks
Typical adult size: Males up to 9 cm; females up to 7 cm
Sexual dimorphism: Sexes similarly coloured; males show more intense coloration, grow larger and have longer fins
Recommended aquarium size: Minimum 250 litres
Aquarium setup: Fine sand substrate with scattered rock groups; provide at least one cave per male; harem structure of 1 male with 3–4 females recommended; multiple males possible only if introduced simultaneously in larger aquaria
Diet: Omnivorous; feeds mainly on plankton in the wild
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; males defend territories and may build saucer-shaped nests over sand
Aggression: Aggressive both towards conspecifics and other species; strong territorial behaviour
Special notes: Undescribed form; notable for maintaining territories even away from rocks over open sand; avoid keeping with closely related species such as Cynotilapia axelrodi or Metriaclima pulpican due to high hybridisation risk

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Photo: © Mark Thomas
Photo: © Mark Thomas
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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