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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Pseudotropheus sp. 'tursiops mbenji' Mbenji Island
Genus: Pseudotropheus
Biotope: Very shallow intermediate habitat among medium-sized rocks in sediment-free zones, mostly between 1–3 m depth, with some individuals down to 6 m.
Geographic distribution: Only known from around Mbenji Island in Lake Malawi.
Sexual dimorphism: Males are larger, bluer and have longer fins than females.
Recommended aquarium size: An aquarium volume of around 400 L or more is preferable.
Aquarium setup: Provide abundant rockwork with crevices and caves.
Diet: Herbivorous “dolphin mbuna” feeding on aufwuchs, using a narrow, elongated snout to crop algae from deep crevices and gripping algae on flat surfaces with the sides of the pointed jaws.
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder. Males defend territories and spawning takes place in caves. Incubation lasts around three weeks.
Aggression: Aggressive intraspecifically and interspecifically, with males strongly territorial and females often defending feeding territories.
Special notes: An undescribed member of the “dolphin mbuna” group characterized by an elongated, beak-like snout. Dominant males show clear vertical barring while horizontal stripes are not visible, and males defend territories vigorously.

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