Venustus Cichlid (Nimbochromis venustus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameNimbochromis venustus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asGiraffe Cichlid, Giraffe Hap, Venustus, Haplochromis venustus

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

Tan/yellow body with brown giraffe-like blotches; males develop a blue face and yellow forehead at maturity. Big and powerful.

Difficulty and care for the Venustus Cichlid

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Malawi, Africa

Keeper notes

Large ambush-predator hap; will eat any fish it can swallow. Territorial males need a big tank; keep one male with several females among robust tankmates.

Log Venustus Cichlid in your reef tank

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