Sciaenochromis benthicola Care Guide
Sciaenochromis benthicola is a predatory haplochromine cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. Males develop a deep iridescent blue body; it needs a large tank.
Overview
Sciaenochromis benthicola is a haplochromine cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, described by Konings in 1993. Its species name comes from Greek benthos (deep) and Latin cola (dweller), referring to the depth at which it was collected. Dominant males develop a deep iridescent blue body.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Sciaenochromis
- Scientific name: Sciaenochromis benthicola
- Authority: Konings, 1993
Habitat
FishBase records the species as endemic to Lake Malawi in Africa, a freshwater demersal (bottom-dwelling) fish of tropical waters; the species name reflects capture at depth.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 500 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 7.8-8.6
- GH: 10-20 °dGH
- Substrate: sand
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
The species is a carnivore with a high trophic level of about 4.1 according to FishBase, indicating a predatory feeding position. A diet of quality carnivore-oriented prepared and frozen foods suits it.
Compatibility
This is a semi-aggressive predatory hap that suits large Malawi displays. It mixes with Aulonocara peacocks, other haps and Synodontis multipunctatus, but should not be kept with aggressive mbuna, Tropheus or soft-water and small fish such as Discus, Apistogramma and tetras that could be eaten.
Breeding
Sciaenochromis are maternal mouthbrooders; the female incubates the eggs and fry in her mouth.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2018).