Venustus cichlid
Nimbochromis venustus
Family : Cichlidae
Nimbochromis venustus is a large haps cichlid with a spotted pattern and bluish head. It is an efficient predator that requires a spacious aquarium.
Description
This cichlid has a robust, elongated body and a large mouth. Juveniles and females are silvery with dark spots, while adult males develop a bright blue head and nape, with the body remaining spotted. It can reach 25 cm. It is an ambush predator that uses its camouflage to surprise small fish. In the aquarium, it is relatively calm with similarly sized fish, but can be aggressive towards conspecifics. It is best kept in a group of one male and several females. It needs large swimming areas and hiding spots.
Habitat
Region :
Lake Malawi
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum tank of 400 liters is recommended for a group. Provide open areas and rocks for hiding. Substrate can be sand. Diet is carnivorous: whole fish, shrimp, worms, carnivore pellets. Avoid high-carb foods. This species can coexist with other large Malawi cichlids, but not with very small fish. Weekly water changes of 20–30% are necessary. Filtration should be strong with moderate to high current.
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