Petrotilapia tridentiger Care Guide
Petrotilapia tridentiger is a large algae-grazing mbuna endemic to Lake Malawi's rocky shores, needing a spacious tank and tough tank mates.
Overview
Petrotilapia tridentiger is a robust mbuna cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, described by Trewavas in 1935 as the type species of its genus. It uses tricuspid teeth and a large mouth to graze the algal biocover on rocks. Dominant males develop deep blue colouration and defend territories vigorously.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Petrotilapia
- Scientific name: Petrotilapia tridentiger
- Tribe: Haplochromini (mbuna group)
Habitat
The species is endemic to Lake Malawi and is widespread on most rocky shores, where it prefers shallow waters with rocky substrate. FishBase reports it feeding from the sediment-free biocover that grows on these rocks, a niche shared by other Aufwuchs-grazing mbuna.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 7.8-8.6
- GH: 10-20 °dGH
- Aquascape: rockwork with caves and crevices
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
This is a herbivore adapted to scraping algae. FishBase notes it feeds using tricuspid teeth on the biocover of rocks. In the aquarium a vegetable-based diet is appropriate; foods high in animal protein should be limited to avoid digestive problems common in algae-grazing mbuna.
Compatibility
Petrotilapia tridentiger is highly territorial and aggressive. It should be housed only with similarly robust mbuna and bottom dwellers such as Synodontis multipunctatus in a large tank. It must not be combined with peaceful species, including discus, angelfish, tetras, Apistogramma, rams or gentle mbuna such as yellow labs.
Breeding
Like other Malawi haplochromines, the species is a maternal mouthbrooder, with the female incubating eggs and fry in her buccal cavity. Captive breeding is rated intermediate in difficulty.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List assesses Petrotilapia tridentiger as Least Concern (assessed 20 June 2018).