Ophthalmotilapia ventralis Care Guide
Ophthalmotilapia ventralis is a featherfin cichlid from the southern end of Lake Tanganyika, a plankton-feeder and maternal mouthbrooder.
Overview
Ophthalmotilapia ventralis is a cichlid of the family Cichlidae described by Boulenger in 1898. It is endemic to Lake Tanganyika and known only from the southern end of the lake. FishBase records a maximum total length of about 15 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Ophthalmotilapia
- Scientific name: Ophthalmotilapia ventralis
- Described by: Boulenger, 1898
Habitat
The species is endemic to Lake Tanganyika and restricted to the southern end of the lake. According to FishBase it is a benthopelagic fish occurring over a depth range of about 2 to 10 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (FishBase records 23-25 °C)
- pH: 8.5-9.2 (FishBase records 7.5-8.0)
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Group size: 5 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 7-11 years
Diet
According to FishBase, Ophthalmotilapia ventralis feeds on microorganisms drifting in plankton clouds. In the aquarium small frozen and prepared foods offered in the water column suit this plankton-feeding habit.
Compatibility
This semi-aggressive featherfin uses the middle of the tank and is best kept in groups. Suitable companions include Cyprichromis and Cyphotilapia, while aggressive Mbuna and Tropheus should be avoided.
Breeding
According to FishBase, females brood their young in the mouth; eggs from the cleavage phase and larvae of up to about 1.97 cm are mouthbrooded by females ranging from roughly 6.5 to 7.5 cm standard length.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. The species is recorded in commercial fisheries and the aquarium trade.