Cichlid
Care basics
The venustus is named for its giraffe like spotted pattern. In the lake it lies on the sand to ambush small fish, and adult males develop a blue head.
Keep a single male, ideally with several females, in a large tank. Tank mates must be too big to eat, such as frontosa, large haps and larger mbuna.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Nimbochromis venustus |
|---|---|
| Group | Lake Malawi hap/peacock |
| Native to | Lake Malawi |
| Adult size | Up to about 10 inches, not counting the tail |
| Tank size | A tank at least 4 feet long and 18 inches front to back, such as a 75 gallon |
| Temperature | 75 to 82 F |
| pH | 7.6 to 8.8, hard water |
| Temperament | A predator that eats small fish, but peaceful with fish too large to swallow. Males fight each other. |
Figures follow published species profiles such as Seriously Fish, and tank sizes are general guidance. Individual fish and local water vary, so test your water and ask your fish store about the specific fish you buy.
