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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Maylandia sp. 'elongatus chidunga' Chidunga Rocks<br><font color=gray>Metriaclima sp. 'elongatus chidunga' Chidunga Rocks</font>
Genus: Maylandia
Biotope: Sediment-influenced intermediate habitat associated with rocky areas. The species occupies locations where rocks are present but the environment is less rocky than preferred by many related mbuna.
Geographic distribution: Southern part of Lake Malawi, recorded from Chidunga Rocks near Chipoka.
Diet: Feeds primarily on aufwuchs scraped from rocks.
Breeding: Territorial males excavate tunnels under or between rocks, which are used as spawning sites. Males remain very close to the substrate while defending these territories.
Aggression: Territorial behavior is pronounced in breeding males, focused mainly on the immediate vicinity of the spawning site.
Special notes: This elongate mbuna appears to occupy a marginal niche and would likely favor a more strongly rocky habitat if available. Its ecology and behavior are closely tied to the substrate, with males showing strong site fidelity and limited movement away from their territories.

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Photo: © Ad Konings
Photo: © Elton Panagi
Photo: © Elton Panagi
Photo: © Elton Panagi
Photo: © Elton Panagi
Photo: © Ricky Ward
Photo: © Ricky Ward
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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