Cynotilapia Afra

Datasheet

General Description

Cynotilapia Afra, commonly known as the Dogtooth Cichlid, is a belligerent and territorial species easily distinguished by its smaller size and unicuspid teeth. They are hardy fish that can rapidly change color when stressed, often found in large groups in open water near rocky walls. This Mbuna species exhibits various color forms in nature, with a caution against mixing them in aquariums due to potential hybridization.

Aquarium Setup

Cynotilapia Afra requires a tank with a minimum size of 90 liters and specific water conditions, including a pH of 7.5-8.5, temperature between 25-29°C, and water hardness of 10-25°dH. The tank should be densely populated with rock piles forming caves and open water areas, along with a sandy substrate. Plants may not be suitable as this species tends to uproot them with its digging behavior.

Behaviour

Known for its aggressive behavior, C. Afra should not be housed with peace-loving species but can coexist with other Mbuna. To minimize aggression and territory formation, the tank should be overcrowded, ideally with heterospecifics. Maintaining a ratio of several females per male is recommended to reduce harassment within the species.

Feeding and Diet

C. Afra readily accepts various foods but requires a diet rich in vegetable matter like spirulina flakes and blanched spinach, supplemented with live and frozen foods. Providing a balanced diet is crucial for their health and well-being in captivity.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding C. Afra requires a pH of 8.0-8.5, a temperature of 77-81°F, and a breeding group ratio of one male to 3-6 females. Spawning is secretive, with the male displaying aggressive behavior to entice females. Females carry eggs in their mouths after fertilization and release free-swimming fry after about three weeks of brooding. Males are more colorful than females, exhibiting sexual dimorphism.

Habitat and Distribution

Endemic to Lake Malawi, C. Afra is widely distributed along the northwest and eastern coasts of the lake, as well as around various islands. They inhabit rocky areas along the lake's shoreline, where they exhibit their territorial and belligerent behaviors in the wild.