Labidochromis freibergi Care Guide
Labidochromis freibergi is a small rock-dwelling mbuna endemic to Likoma Island in Lake Malawi. It is a relatively peaceful maternal mouthbrooder.
Overview
Labidochromis freibergi is a small rock-dwelling cichlid (mbuna) endemic to Likoma Island in Lake Malawi. It was described by Johnson in 1974. Labidochromis are micropredatory mbuna; many are kept successfully in cichlid aquariums, and species in the genus hybridise readily, so only one Labidochromis is recommended per tank.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Labidochromis
- Scientific name: Labidochromis freibergi
- Common synonyms: Likoma Lab
Habitat
FishBase records the species as endemic to Likoma Island in Lake Malawi, a freshwater benthopelagic fish living over rocky substrate at depths of about 1-12 metres, with a pH range of 7.5-8.3.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 7.8-8.6
- GH: 10-20 °dGH
- Maximum size: about 8 cm TL (FishBase)
- Substrate: sand with abundant rockwork
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
Diet
The species is an omnivore with a trophic level of about 2.7. Labidochromis are micropredators that pick small invertebrates from the rocks; in aquaria a balanced diet of prepared cichlid foods with some vegetable content suits them.
Compatibility
Although a semi-aggressive mbuna, it is relatively peaceful for the group. Suitable companions include Synodontis petricola, Synodontis multipunctatus and other mbuna of similar temperament. Gentle community fish such as Discus, angelfish, tetras, Apistogramma and rams are unsuitable. Only one Labidochromis species should be kept to avoid hybridisation.
Breeding
Labidochromis are maternal mouthbrooders; the female incubates the eggs and fry in her mouth.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2018).