Chisumulae Lab (Labidochromis chisumulae) Care Guide
Labidochromis chisumulae is a small mbuna cichlid endemic to Chisumulu Island in Lake Malawi, suited to rock-dwelling Malawi communities.
Overview
Labidochromis chisumulae is a small mbuna cichlid endemic to Chisumulu Island in Lake Malawi. It has a light blue body with a broad horizontal dark stripe and reaches a modest adult size, recorded by FishBase at about 6.6 cm standard length. It is among the more peaceable Labidochromis.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Labidochromis
- Scientific name: Labidochromis chisumulae
- Common synonyms: Chisumulu Lab
Habitat
The species is endemic to the rocky shores of Chisumulu Island in Lake Malawi, East Africa. As a benthopelagic rock-dweller, it lives in the hard, alkaline water characteristic of the Rift Valley lake.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L (66 gal)
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 7.8-8.6
- GH: 10-20 °dGH
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
Diet
Labidochromis are omnivorous; FishBase records a trophic level of about 2.7, consistent with a varied diet. In the aquarium they accept prepared foods supplemented with both vegetable matter and small invertebrate items.
Compatibility
As a comparatively peaceful mbuna it suits rock-structured Malawi communities with other species of similar temperament. It should not be combined with soft-water community fish such as tetras, angelfish, discus or dwarf cichlids, whose requirements differ markedly.
Breeding
Like other Lake Malawi cichlids it is a maternal mouthbrooder, with the female carrying and protecting the eggs and fry in her mouth.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2018). It is used in the aquarium trade and shows high biological resilience.