Loock's Cichlid (Interochromis loocki) Care Guide
Interochromis loocki is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. This guide covers its tank requirements, diet, behaviour and breeding.
Overview
Interochromis loocki is a cichlid (family Cichlidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. FishBase lists a maximum of 10.5 cm total length. FishBase records it as feeding on debris and aufwuchs (the algal layer on rocks), consistent with its placement near the algae-grazing Petrochromis.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Scientific name: Interochromis loocki
- Described by: Poll, 1949 (originally described as Simochromis loocki)
- Other names: Petrochromis loocki
Interochromis is a monotypic genus erected by Yamaoka, Hori & Kuwamura in 1988.
Habitat
It is endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, living over rocky substrates at shallow depths of roughly 2-3 m. Wikipedia describes it as widespread but rare.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L (106 gal)
- Adult size: 11-14 cm
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 8.5-9.2 (hard, alkaline rift-lake water)
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Recommended group size: 6+ individuals
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
FishBase records it as feeding on debris and aufwuchs (the algal layer on rocks), consistent with its placement near the algae-grazing Petrochromis.
Compatibility
Interochromis loocki is a aggressive species that occupies the middle water layer. In a dedicated Lake Tanganyika community it is typically kept with Tropheus, Cyphotilapia, Cyprichromis. Avoid combining it with Mbuna, Small fish.
Breeding
Like its rock-grazing relatives it is a maternal mouthbrooder.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.