Giant Tanganyika Cichlid (Boulengerochromis microlepis)

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Giant Tanganyika Cichlid

Boulengerochromis microlepis.jpg
Giant Tanganyika Cichlid

Boulengerochromis microlepis

946 Litres (250 US G.)

60-90 cm (23.6-35.4")

sg

Freshwater

pH

8.0 - 9.0

24 -26 °C (75.2-78.8°F)

8-12 °d

1:1 M:F

Carnivore
Live Foods
Other (See article)

5-10 years

Family

Cichlidae



Additional names

Giant Tanganyika Cichlid, Giant Cichlid

Additional scientific names

Tilapia microlepis, Paratilapia microlepis


Origin

Endemic to Lake Tanganyika.

Sexing

Mature females are significantly smaller than males.

Tank compatibility

Due to this fish's size it's best either kept in pairs or singly in species tanks. It can occasionally be combined with other large-growing Tanganyikan Cichlids. Large peaceful yet robust bottom-dwellers may also work.

Diet

Should accept most meaty foods including high quality Cichlid pellets, as well as shrimp, earthworms and silversides.

Feeding regime

Feed once or twice a day.

Environment Specifics

Requires hard alkaline with a pH 8.0 or above. Tank décor is not important as long as it's sturdy and a sand substrate is preferred. Needs a substantial amount of swimming space.

Behaviour

A generally peaceful fish to those of similar size, but will eat smaller fish. They are increasingly territorial to their own species as they mature.

Identification

Said to be one of the largest African Cichlids in existence. The body is long with a yellow-green base colour, with faint vertical dark green lines running down from the dorsal fin, these get darker as the fish ages. The head is speckled with blue spots.

Pictures

Video

Juveniles:

External links