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Cichlids
/ Africa / Lake Malawi / Elephant-nose Cichlid
Elephant-nose Cichlid, Linni
Nimbochromis linni | Pictures
Synonyms: Cyrtocara
linni, Haplochromis linni
Physical description: The coloration of the Elephant-nose Cichlid is virtually identical to that of the Polystigma.
The
main difference between the two being that the Elephant-nose Cichlid possesses large lips, that when opened make
the mouth look like a small trunk.
This cichlid also has a slightly duller body coloration.
Size/Length: To 14" (35 cm)
Similar species: Polystigma (N.
polystigma)
Habitat: Eastern Africa; found in rocky areas along the coast of Lake Malawi.
S: bottom, middle
Aquarium: 40" (100 cm) or 45-55 gallons (170-209 L) is sufficient for young fish.
Larger
fish need a tank of at least 60" (152 cm) or 90-110 gallons (342-378 L).
See
N. polystigma for detail of tank set-up.
Water chemistry: pH 7.5-8.8 (8.1), 10-25 dH (18), 73-79°F (23-26°C)
Social behavior: A predator that will eat small fish.
Males are aggressive and territorial towards
females, although not overly aggressive towards other species.
Keep one male with several females.
Suggested companions: Lake Malawi Haplochromines,
Synodontis, larger mbunas,
Polypterus, Afromastacembelus
FOOD: Live; small fish, worms, aquatic insects; chopped meat; tablets; pellets
Sexual differences: The male is more brightly colored, has more distinct egg-spots, and has a more colorful
dorsal edge.
Breeding techniques: Follow recommendations for
N. polystigma.
Breeding potential: 7.
Breeding is moderately difficult.
Remarks: N.
linni may be a color morph of
N. polystigma and not a separate species.
The
two are known to be very closely related.
Difficulty of care: 5.
Like the Polystigma, care is fairly easy.
Recent articles about fish
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