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Edit Buccochromis lepturus

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Name

Scientific name

Buccochromis lepturus

Described by

Not recorded

Family

Cichlidae

Common names

Slender Tail Hap

Photograph credits

All 2 credited

Summary

The slender tail hap, Buccochromis lepturus, is a large cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, also known as the green lepturus. Adults live in de…

Size and aquarium

Maximum size

400mm, standard length

Aquarium size

Minimum length 150 cm, Minimum depth 45 cm, Minimum height 45 cm

Water

Water conditions

Temperature 24–27°C, pH 7.5–8.8

Hardness

10–25dGH

Conductivity

Not recorded

Behaviour

Temperament

Predatory

Social needs

Not recorded

Community suitability

Not recorded

Where it lives

Countries, regions, rivers and lakes

Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Lake Malawi

Writing

Etymology

Not written yet

Distribution

Endemic to Lake Malawi.

Habitat

It occurs throughout the lake, inhabiting deeper waters. Juveniles can be seen in quite shallow water around shorelines.

Aquarium size

It's a very active species so a tank measuring 150 ∗ 45 ∗ 45 cm - ~304 litres is the minimum you should consider. A bigger tank would certainly be needed if yo…

Maintenance

Decor isn't really important, as this is a pelagic roamers. Provide as much swimming space as possible, as it is capable of real bursts of speed. Rocky formati…

Water conditions

Temperature: 24 – 27 °C pH: 7.5-8.8 Hardness: 10-25°H

Diet

Piscivorous by nature but adapts well to prepared foods in captivity. Offer a varied diet using a good quality cichlid pellet as staple, along with lots of mea…

Behaviour and compatibility

It's not particularly aggressive with anything too large to fit in its mouth. Small fish will definitely end up on the menu. With the exception of Mbuna, it ca…

Sexual dimorphism

Adult males are larger and more colourful than females.

Reproduction

Has been achieved in the hobby but details are very scarce. Maternal mouthbrooder.

Notes

Also known as the green lepturus, this is a stunning species when mature. Unfortunately, it is rarely seen for sale. Its pelagic nature means it is difficult t…

References

References

No references