Source: Wikimedia Commons
Malawi Eye-biter
AdvancedDimidiochromis compressiceps
A large Lake Malawi haplochromine with an extremely compressed body and pointed snout. It ambushes small fish from among plants, exceeds 23cm and needs a large tank.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
23〜28℃
Lifespan
6-10 years
Size
23-25cm
Diet
Frozen foods such as prawn, mussel and whitebait, plus prepared foods
About
Dimidiochromis compressiceps occurs in Lake Malawi as well as the upper Shire River and Lake Malombe. FishBase records a maximum of 23cm TL and Seriously Fish gives 25cm SL. The body is extremely laterally compressed, letting the fish hide among plants in vegetated shallows and ambush small fish. Its recorded diet is small fish, especially shoaling species such as juvenile Utaka. Mature males show blue on the flanks. Fish under about 12cm will be eaten, so tank mates must be chosen with care, and a harem of one male with three to six females is easiest. Use 150 x 38cm (about 257 litres) or more at pH 7.5-8.8, 10-25 dGH and 23-28C. Females mouthbrood for roughly three weeks; breeding is not easy.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Malawi Eye-biter
The Malawi Eye-biter lives 6-10 years.
Size of the Malawi Eye-biter
The Malawi Eye-biter grows to 23-25cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Malawi Eye-biter
The ideal temperature for the Malawi Eye-biter is 23〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Lake Malawi, the upper Shire River and Lake Malombe, Africa
Lifespan
6-10 years
Size
23-25cm
Care Specifications
- pH
- 7.5–8.8
- Hardness (GH)
- 10–25 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 23–28℃
- Min. Tank
- 257 L
AggressiveGroupBreeding: Moderate
Sources: Seriously Fish / FishBase
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Dimidiochromis compressiceps (Boulenger, 1908)
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / FishBase (IUCN assessment: LC)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Malawi Eye-biter Listings
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