African Cichlid – Euchilus Cichlid 5cm

Euchilus Cichlid: A Unique and Graceful African Cichlid

Euchilus Cichlid (Chilotilapia euchilus), also known as the Haplochromis Euchilus, is a captivating fish from the rocky and sandy habitats of Lake Malawi. Known for its elongated body and shimmering colouration, this cichlid is prized for its elegance and fascinating behaviours. It is a peaceful addition to large African cichlid tanks and an excellent choice for intermediate and advanced aquarists.

Size and Lifespan

Euchilus Cichlids can grow up to 20–25 cm in length, making them one of the larger Haplochromines. With proper care, including a spacious tank and stable water parameters, they can live for 8–10 years. Their size and longevity make them a standout species in any aquarium.

Tank Size and Requirements

A minimum tank size of 300 liters is required for a single Euchilus Cichlid, with larger tanks recommended for groups or mixed species setups. They thrive in water temperatures of 24°C–28°C and a pH range of 7.8–8.6, replicating their natural Lake Malawi environment. Use sandy substrates, rocky caves, and open swimming areas to create a balanced habitat that encourages natural behaviours.

Tank Mates

Euchilus Cichlids are relatively peaceful for their size and can coexist with other calm or moderately tempered cichlids. Suitable tank mates include Peacock Cichlids, Haps, and Synodontis Catfish. Avoid pairing them with highly aggressive Mbuna species or much smaller fish, as this can lead to stress or predatory behaviour. Maintaining sufficient space and territories reduces potential conflicts.

Feeding Euchilus Cichlids

These omnivores thrive on a varied diet. Provide high-quality cichlid pellets or sticks as their primary food. Supplement with live or frozen treats such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, or bloodworms for protein. Including vegetable matter like blanched zucchini or spinach supports their digestive health. A well-rounded diet helps maintain their vibrant colours and promotes long-term health.

Breeding Euchilus Cichlids

Breeding is possible with proper conditions, though it requires patience due to their size and territorial tendencies. Males court females by displaying vibrant colours and preparing territories. Females are mouthbrooders, carrying fertilized eggs for about 21–28 days until the fry are free-swimming. Providing flat rocks or sandy areas encourages spawning, and a dedicated breeding tank improves fry survival rates. Fry can be fed finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp.

Sexing Euchilus Cichlids

Males are larger and display more vivid colouration, especially during breeding periods. Females are smaller with subtler hues and rounder bellies. Observing size, colour, and behaviour helps distinguish males from females in groups.

FAQs

How big do Euchilus Cichlids get?
They can grow up to 20–25 cm, making them one of the larger Lake Malawi cichlids.

Are they aggressive?
They are relatively peaceful but may become territorial during breeding. Proper tank space and suitable tank mates minimize conflicts.

What tank mates are suitable?
Peacock Cichlids, Haps, and Synodontis Catfish are ideal companions. Avoid highly aggressive or very small species.

What do they eat?
They thrive on cichlid pellets, live or frozen protein like shrimp or bloodworms, and occasional vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

How do you breed Euchilus Cichlids?
Provide sandy areas or flat rocks for spawning. Females mouthbrood eggs for 21–28 days before releasing fry.

How can you tell males and females apart?
Males are larger with more vivid colouration, while females are smaller with more subdued tones.

Species Overview

• Species: Chilotilapia euchilus
• Common Name: Euchilus Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 25 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 300 liters