Lobochilotes labiatus Care Guide
Lobochilotes labiatus is a large thick-lipped Lake Tanganyika cichlid, the only species in its genus, feeding on invertebrates from rock crevices.
Overview
Lobochilotes labiatus is a cichlid of the family Cichlidae and the only known species in its monotypic genus, established by Boulenger in 1915. It is endemic to Lake Tanganyika, where it is widely distributed. FishBase records a maximum total length of about 36.8 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Lobochilotes (monotypic)
- Scientific name: Lobochilotes labiatus
- Described by: Boulenger, 1898
Habitat
The species is endemic to Lake Tanganyika and widely distributed across the lake, occurring roughly between 3°S and 9°S. According to FishBase it is a freshwater, benthopelagic fish, using its fleshy lips to extract prey from rocky crevices.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 800 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 8.5-9.2 (FishBase records 7.5-8.5)
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Lifespan: 12-18 years
Diet
According to FishBase, Lobochilotes labiatus feeds on bivalve molluscs, crabs and other invertebrates. Its thick, rubbery lips help it press against rock surfaces to suck out prey from crevices. In the aquarium it accepts meaty foods.
Compatibility
This large, semi-aggressive species uses the middle of the tank and is a centrepiece fish requiring a very large aquarium. It is best combined with robust Tanganyika species such as Cyphotilapia, while small fish and Mbuna should be avoided.
Breeding
According to FishBase, females are mouthbrooders; larvae of up to about 2.03 cm are brooded by females ranging from roughly 14.8 to 19.0 cm standard length.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. The species is recorded in commercial fisheries and the aquarium trade.