Malawi Eyebiter (Dimidiochromis compressiceps) Care Guide

Highly compressed predatory hap from Lake Malawi vallisneria beds, reaching 23 cm. Males iridescent silver-blue with red anal fin; specialised piscivore that ambushes prey side-on.

Overview

Dimidiochromis compressiceps is a species in the family Cichlidae. Highly compressed predatory hap from Lake Malawi vallisneria beds, reaching 23 cm. Males iridescent silver-blue with red anal fin; specialised piscivore that ambushes prey side-on. Needs long 500 L+ tank with vertical leaves.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Dimidiochromis
Scientific name: Dimidiochromis compressiceps
Other names: Eyebiter, Compressiceps
Origin: Africa, Lake Malawi

Habitat

Endemic to Lake Malawi, where it ambushes prey among Vallisneria weed beds and reed margins. The strongly laterally compressed body provides camouflage among vertical stems. A piscivorous hap and maternal mouthbrooder; sometimes reported to eat the eyes of prey fish.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 500 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 7.8-8.6
GH: 10-20 °dGH
Adult size: 20-23 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Larger haps, Aulonocara
Avoid with: Mbuna, Tropheus, Discus, Apistogramma, Tetras, Small fish under 7cm

Breeding

Breeding strategy: mouthbrooder
Breeding difficulty: intermediate