Zoned cichlid

Cyprichromis zonatus

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwatercichlid

The Zoned cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, characterized by vertical bands on its flanks.

Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Lake Tanganyika
Lac africain, eau dure, cichlidés Tropheus, Cyprichromis.

Description

This fish has an elongated, laterally compressed body with dark vertical bands on a blue-silver background. Males are more colorful than females, with yellow and blue reflections. It lives in schools in open water and feeds on zooplankton. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. Less known in the hobby than Cyprichromis pavo but equally interesting. Its dorsal fin is long and pointed.

Habitat

Region :

Open water and rocky areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2427 °C
pH7.88.6
GH812 °dGH
KH1015 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Carnivore
Min. tank
200 L
Min. group
6
Adult size
11 cm
Lifespan
6 years
Temperament
Peaceful, schooling
Propagation

Care notes

Keep a group of at least 6 in a minimum 200L tank. Water must be hard and alkaline (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Temperature 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods (brine shrimp, plankton). Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate flow is beneficial. Regular water changes are important. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References