Open sandy habitats.
Typically found over sandy bottoms at depths between 6 and 25 meters.
Geographic distribution:
Endemic to Lake Malawi.
Typical adult size:
Up to approximately 12–13 cm total length.
Sexual dimorphism:
Males are more colorful, typically showing silvery-blue to light blue
coloration with orange or golden tones on the dorsal area and fins.
Females are more subdued in coloration and slightly smaller.
Recommended aquarium size:
At least 300 liters.
Aquarium setup:
An aquarium with open sandy areas is required, supplemented with some
rock structures arranged to provide hiding places.
Best maintained with calm tank mates due to its peaceful behavior.
Diet:
Omnivorous.
In nature it feeds primarily on small invertebrates and detritus sifted
from sandy substrates.
In aquaria it accepts most prepared foods.
Breeding:
Maternal mouth-brooder.
A polygamous species in which males establish temporary territories during
spawning.
Females incubate the eggs orally until the fry are released.
Aggression:
Generally peaceful toward both conspecifics and other species.
Special notes:
Gephyrochromis moorii is a calm, sand-dwelling mbuna adapted to open habitats.
It is considered one of the more peaceful Lake Malawi cichlids and is
suitable for carefully planned community aquaria.
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