Venustus (Nimbochromis venustus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameNimbochromis venustus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asGiraffe Cichlid, Venustus Hap, Giraffe Hap

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

Giraffe-like brown blotches on a pale gold body; mature males develop a metallic blue face and yellow forehead.

Difficulty and care for the Venustus

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Malawi, Africa

Keeper notes

Large ambush predator; eats smaller fish and is aggressive when mature. Needs big tank and large tankmates only.

Log Venustus 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 Venustus alongside everything else in your reef.

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