Edit Oreochromis alcalicus
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Name
Scientific name
Oreochromis alcalicus
Described by
Authority Hilgendorf, Year 1905, Bracketed
Family
Cichlidae
Common names
Soda Cichlid, Natron Tilapia, Sodabuntbarsch
Photograph credits
All 5 credited
Summary
The soda cichlid, Alcolapia alcalica, is endemic to Lake Natron in Tanzania, a shallow soda lake full of hot, alkaline springs. The lake ru…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
115mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Not recorded
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 28–38°C, pH 8–10
Hardness
10–35dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Peaceful
Social needs
Not recorded
Community suitability
Not recorded
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Kenya, Tanzania, Lake Natron
Writing
Etymology
Alcolapia: etymology not explained, but appears to be a combination of the Latin alcali, meaning 'alkali', in reference to genus members' habitat preferences, …
Distribution
Endemic to Lake Natron in the United Republic of Tanzania, East Africa.
Habitat
It inhabits the shoreline of the lake around hot, alkaline spring inlets and lagoons.
Aquarium size
Not written yet
Maintenance
The tank can be relatively sparse. A sandy substrate is best as this species likes to dig. Some rock piles arranged to form caves and refuges are the only othe…
Water conditions
Not written yet
Diet
Live and frozen foods should comprise a large proportion of the diet. Dried foods are also accepted. Ensure the fish receive some vegetable matter, such as bla…
Behaviour and compatibility
It seems to be a fairly peaceful species but should be kept alone due to its extreme water requirements. It is territorial with conspecifics but its small size…
Sexual dimorphism
Males tend to grow larger and are more colourful than females.
Reproduction
Possible but not often achieved in aquaria due to the rarity of the fish! Little information is available. Maternal mouthbrooder. The aquarium should be set up…
Notes
This cichlid is a true wonder of nature. It lives in a soda lake which is full of hot, alkaline springs. The water contains a high concentration of sodium carb…
References
References
No references