Ophthalmotilapia (Ophthalmotilapia ventralis)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Ophthalmotilapia

Quick facts

Scientific nameOphthalmotilapia ventralis
FamilyCichlidae
Also known asVentralis, Featherfin Cichlid
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
DietOmnivore
Adult size6 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemp 76-82°F, pH 8.0-9.0, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Elongated body with long thread-like pelvic fins tipped with yellow lure-pads and brilliant blue-and-white males.

Difficulty and care for the Ophthalmotilapia

Hard

Origin and habitat

Lake Tanganyika, Africa

Keeper notes

Featherfin maternal mouthbrooder; males hold sand bowers and display intensely but rarely cause real damage.

Log Ophthalmotilapia in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Ophthalmotilapia alongside everything else in your reef.