Venustus Cichlid
Nimbochromis venustus

General: The Venustus Cichlid (Nimbochromis venustus) naturally derives from the basic waters of Lake Malawi. This African Rift Valley member of the scientific family Cichlidae is naturally piscivorous (primarily consumes fish), and reaches a length of up to ten inches. For these reasons, it is critical to ensure enough living space (100 gallons, or more).

Fecundity: The Venustus Cichlid (Nimbochromis venustus) may produce up to two hundred eggs per clutch. The Venustus Cichlid is a mouth brooding fish species, in which the female will carry the fry in her mouth for up to one month.

Preferred Water Chemistry: Basic (7.2 to 8.6 pH), hard water (10 to 18 dGH), 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit

Aquarium Diet (Piscivore): Brine Shrimp, Ghost Shrimp, Blackworms, Carnivore Pellet, Spirulina, Feeder Fish

Dimorphism: The male Venustus Cichlid (Nimbochromis venustus) will develop elongated dorsal, pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins. The female will retain her short, round fins. The female will take on a more gravid appearance when ready to reproduce. Also, the spotted coloration on the female is typically more pronounced in comparison to the male.

Compatibility: The Venustus Cichlid (Nimbochromis venustus) are typically compatible with other semi-aggressive African Rift Valley Cichlids (Haplochromis, and Aulonocara). They are also typically compatible with the Synodontis catfish species, of similar size. The Venustus Cichlid will commonly become hyper-aggressive if maintained in an aquarium of too little size.