Edit Champsochromis spilorhynchus
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Name
Scientific name
Champsochromis spilorhynchus
Described by
Not recorded
Family
Cichlidae
Common names
Not recorded
Photograph credits
All 1 credited
Summary
Champsochromis spilorhynchus is a large predatory cichlid known from Lake Malawi, Lake Malombe and the upper Shire River. It is only occasi…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
350mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Minimum length 180 cm, Minimum depth 60 cm, Minimum height 60 cm
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 24–27°C, pH 7.5–8.5
Hardness
5–30dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Predatory
Social needs
One male with several females
Community suitability
Not recorded
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Malawi, Tanzania, Lake Malawi
Writing
Etymology
Not written yet
Distribution
Known only from Lake Malombe, Lake Malawi and the Upper Shire River. This river flows out of Lake Malawi.
Habitat
Inhabits many zones throughout the lake. It's most often seen around the shores but is also known to hunt in completely open waters.
Aquarium size
180 ∗ 60 ∗ 60 cm - ~648 litres bare minimum, but preferably larger.
Maintenance
Tank decoration is not really important as the species is pelagic in nature. It is therefore very active, and as much swimming space as possible must be provid…
Water conditions
Temperature: 24 – 27 °C pH: 7.5-8.5 Hardness: 5-30°H
Diet
It's a pursuit predator, and in nature feeds on smaller fish such as juvenile Copadichromis species. Thankfully, there's no need to feed live fish in the aquar…
Behaviour and compatibility
It's not especially aggressive with anything too large to fit in its mouth but once you've seen the yawn of an adult specimen it will quickly become clear that…
Sexual dimorphism
The male is the larger and much the more colourful sex. Mature fish sometimes develop extended dorsal, anal and caudal fins, which females lack.
Reproduction
Has been achieved in the hobby, albeit infrequently. It actually breeds in standard Hap fashion, being a maternal mouthbrooder. Ideally it should be spawned in…
Notes
This species is only occasionally offered for sale, as it is difficult to collect, living a predominantly solitary lifestyle. As a result, it is much sought af…
References
References
No references