More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 230 litres / 60.76 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 15.0cm / 5.91inches |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 27°C / 80.60°F |
| Hardness | 8-25ºdH |
| pH | 7.5-9.0 |
General Description
The Ophthalmotilapia Ventralis, belonging to the Cichlidae family, is a striking species thriving in a Tanganyikan community aquarium setup. With over 20 color morphs, this species should not be mixed in aquaria to prevent hybridization. In nature, dominant males build nests while others shoal together, showing territorial behavior with territories spanning several meters.
Aquarium Setup
For O. ventralis, a tank of at least 230 litres with scattered rocks forming caves is ideal. A sandy substrate and ample open water space are necessary. Plants like Anubias and Vallisneria can be added as they do not damage vegetation. Water conditions should maintain a pH of 7.5-9.0, hardness of 8-25°dH, and a temperature range of 23-27°C.
Behaviour
This species is generally peaceful but territorial during spawning, requiring dominance in the tank to maintain coloration. It should be kept with peaceful species like Cyprichromis and rockdwellers, avoiding aggressive counterparts. Male O. ventralis are territorial towards other males, necessitating a single male with a group of females to reduce aggression.
Feeding and Diet
O. ventralis accepts various foods but high-protein types should be limited, with a portion of vegetable matter like blanched spinach in the diet. Ensuring a balanced diet is crucial for their health and vitality.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Maternal mouthbrooders, O. ventralis prefer spawning in large tanks with sandy substrates and a male-female group ratio. Females carry eggs for 3-4 weeks before releasing fry, showing signs of stress like spitting out or eating the brood prematurely if disturbed. Males display intense colors during spawning, while females lack the vibrant hues of males.
Habitat and Distribution
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, O. ventralis inhabits rocky shorelines in shallow waters below 5 meters, often feeding on plankton near rock slopes. Widely distributed along the coastlines, this species is absent only in specific regions, some of which remain unexplored to date.