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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Melanochromis sp. 'robustus mbenji' Mbenji Island
Genus: Melanochromis
Biotope: Intermediate habitat at depths of approximately 10–15 meters.
Geographic distribution: Endemic to the Mbenji Islands, Lake Malawi.
Typical adult size: Estimated total length about 12 cm; females remain approximately one quarter smaller.
Sexual dimorphism: Males in breeding coloration show a complete reversed pattern and have a darker ground colour with broad vertical bars. Females exhibit distinct barring and lack the bright yellow bars seen in M. baliodigma.
Diet: Scavenger-like feeder attracted to stirred-up sediment. Observed apparently chewing on invertebrate prey hidden in loose sediment around rocks.
Breeding: Only a single breeding male has been observed. The male defended a large shallow cave beneath a boulder on sand and courted females in front of the cave. Spawning has not yet been documented.
Special notes: Closely resembles M. mpoto but differs by broader vertical bars and complete reversed male coloration. Breeding males resemble those of M. baliodigma but have a much darker ground colour. Population density appears very low and the distribution is highly restricted.

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Photo: © Ad Konings
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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