Labidochromis Caeruleus

Datasheet

General Description

Labidochromis Caeruleus, commonly known as Caeruleus, is a popular Rift Lake cichlid species prized for its vibrant coloration and relatively peaceful nature compared to other mbuna. This species showcases various color forms in the wild, with the electric yellow morph, popular in the aquarium trade, being a rarer variant. Most specimens available in the hobby are tank-bred due to the scarcity of wild-caught individuals.

Aquarium Setup

Maintaining Labidochromis Caeruleus in a Lake Malawi biotope tank is recommended, ideally with peaceful Haps as tank mates. The aquarium should feature plenty of rocky caves and open sandy areas to mimic the fish's natural habitat. Tank conditions should include a pH of 7.7-8.6, water hardness of 10-25 dH, and a temperature range of 24-28°C (see table).Additionally, a minimum tank size of 160 liters is necessary for proper housing.

Behaviour

Labidochromis Caeruleus is known to be relatively peaceful, making it suitable for hard water community setups. While they can be housed in groups, they may display territorial behavior, especially during spawning periods. Males of this species can become aggressive in their pursuit of mates, so it is recommended to keep multiple females for every male. In a community tank setting with other mbuna, overcrowding is advised to reduce aggression and territorial disputes.

Feeding and Diet

These cichlids are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods. A diet rich in vegetable matter such as spirulina flakes and blanched spinach is essential, supplemented with live and frozen food varieties.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Labidochromis Caeruleus is a maternal mouthbrooder, requiring specific conditions for successful breeding. Spawning should occur in a species tank with a harem setup of one male and at least three females. The male will display intense coloration to attract females for mating. Females carry the brood of 5-30 eggs in their mouths for up to 3-4 weeks before releasing the fry. Adult males tend to be larger and display brighter colors during spawning, with potential black pigmentation in the fins.

Habitat and Distribution

Endemic to Lake Malawi, Labidochromis Caeruleus inhabits rocky areas and heavily vegetated beds of Vallisneria within the northern region of the lake. The "electric yellow" morph of this species is specifically recorded in certain areas of the lake, showcasing distinct distribution patterns.