Malawi Eye-biter (Dimidiochromis compressiceps)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameDimidiochromis compressiceps

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asEyebiter, Compressiceps, Haplochromis compressiceps

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size10 in

Minimum tank size125 gallons

Water parametersTemp 76-82°F, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Tall, knife-thin silver body with a long pointed snout; males develop blue with red/orange fin tints. Named for the legend of eating fish eyes (chiefly a piscivore).

Difficulty and care for the Malawi Eye-biter

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Malawi, Africa

Keeper notes

Large laterally-compressed ambush predator; readily eats smaller fish. Territorial; keep one male with several females in a big tank with robust tankmates.

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