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[edit]

Endemic to Lake Tanganyika.


Sexing[edit]

Mature females are significantly smaller than males.


Tank compatibility[edit]

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[edit]

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


Feeding regime[edit]

Feed once or twice a day.


Environment specifics[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

Video[edit]

Juveniles:

External links[edit]