Family: Cichlidae
Distribution: Aulonocara macrochir, sometimes called Chisawasawa, is an African cichlid found in Lake Malawi.
PH: 7.5 – 9.0
Temperature: 22 – 27°C (72 – 80°F)
Hardness: 10 – 15 dH
Description: Aulonocara macrochir cichlids can reach up to 15 cm in length. Adult males have a metallic shade containing several different colours, particularly blue and green. Females are mostly brown in appearance and slightly smaller in size compared to males. Both sexes have distinctive three spot markings. Chisawasawa cichlids have a life span of eight years.
Diet: The Aulonocara macrochir is omnivorous and will appreciate a cichlid flake or pellet food as its staple. Supplement this with snails and fresh green vegetables.
Breeding: The female is a mouthbrooder. The male creates a spawning site and will fertilise the eggs once the female has laid them; the female will then hold the eggs in her mouth for up to 3 – 4 weeks. It is best to separate the male and female during this period.
Comments: Chisawasawa cichlids should be housed in an aquarium no less than 55 gallons in volume. You should provide this species with plenty of open swimming space given its size.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: Haps, Peacocks and other gentle species are compatible with Aulonocara macrochir.
Originally posted 2009-12-15 09:53:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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