African Cichlid – Malawi Bream – 4cm

Malawi Bream Cichlid (Chilotilapia rhoadesii): A Unique and Elegant Addition

The Malawi Bream Cichlid (Chilotilapia rhoadesii) is a stunning species from Lake Malawi, known for its graceful swimming and striking appearance. With shimmering blue and green hues, males develop brighter colours as they mature, making them a standout in any tank. Their peaceful temperament and fascinating behaviours make them a popular choice for aquarists.

Tank Setup for Malawi Bream Cichlids

Creating the perfect environment is essential for their health and happiness. A tank of at least 300 liters provides enough swimming space for these active fish. Use fine sand as the substrate and include rocks or caves to mimic their natural habitat. Maintaining a pH range of 7.5 to 8.5 and water temperatures between 24°C and 28°C ensures they thrive. Frequent water changes and strong filtration are also necessary.

Diet and Feeding

Feeding Malawi Bream Cichlids is simple yet rewarding. Offer a mix of high-quality cichlid pellets and flakes as their primary diet. To enhance their colours and overall health, include occasional treats like krill, spirulina, or brine shrimp. You can also add blanched vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to provide variety. A balanced diet keeps them vibrant, energetic, and healthy.

Behaviour and Tank Mates

These cichlids are relatively peaceful, making them excellent for community tanks with similarly tempered species. Suitable tank mates include other large, non-aggressive cichlids like Peacocks, Haps, or Frontosas. Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive fish or species much smaller in size. Providing ample hiding spots and swimming areas helps reduce stress and fosters a harmonious environment.

Breeding Malawi Bream Cichlids

Breeding these cichlids can be an exciting and rewarding experience. They are maternal mouthbrooders, with females carrying eggs and fry in their mouths for protection. To encourage spawning, maintain stable water parameters and provide flat rocks or caves as breeding sites. After three weeks, the fry can be released and fed finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp.

FAQs

How big do Malawi Bream Cichlids grow?
They typically grow up to 25 cm, requiring a spacious tank for their comfort.

Are they aggressive?
They are generally peaceful but can show mild territorial behaviour, especially during breeding.

What tank mates are suitable?
Good companions include Peacocks, Haps, and Frontosas. Avoid overly aggressive or very small fish.

What do they eat?
They enjoy cichlid pellets, spirulina-based foods, and occasional live or frozen treats like krill or brine shrimp.

How do they breed?
Females are mouthbrooders, protecting their eggs and fry in their mouths. Stable water conditions encourage successful breeding.

Are they beginner-friendly?
Their size and specific care needs make them better suited for intermediate aquarists.

Getting the Most Colour from Your Malawi Bream Cichlid

To bring out their best colours, focus on high-quality foods and proper lighting. Offer colour-enhancing diets rich in nutrients, like AquaMunch Super Colour products. Adding premium LED lighting, such as AquaNice LED Tubes, can further amplify their natural brilliance. These steps ensure your cichlid displays its full, radiant potential.

Species Overview

• Species: Chilotilapia rhoadesii
• Common Name: Malawi Bream Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 7.5–8.5
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 25 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 300 liters