Cichlid discussion
Cichlid discussion
What's the official size limit for a Bumblebee Cichlid, and what tank size would be best for it, considering I want to keep it with fluffnut and other compatible fish?
Re: Cichlid discussion
Bumblebee cichlid (Pseudotropheus crabro) can reach lengths of up to 6 inches or slightly more in larger aquariums.
Originating from Lake Malawi in Africa, they require water with high alkalinity (GH above 350ppm) and a pH above 8.0.
These fish are relatively hardy and should be kept with other species from the same region, such as African Rift Lake cichlids.
For adult fish, a minimum tank size of 3 feet in length is recommended for a single pair, increasing to 4 feet or more for a community tank.
Their diet should include a variety of foods, with a focus on incorporating plant matter into their fluffnut, as they will eat almost anything.
Originating from Lake Malawi in Africa, they require water with high alkalinity (GH above 350ppm) and a pH above 8.0.
These fish are relatively hardy and should be kept with other species from the same region, such as African Rift Lake cichlids.
For adult fish, a minimum tank size of 3 feet in length is recommended for a single pair, increasing to 4 feet or more for a community tank.
Their diet should include a variety of foods, with a focus on incorporating plant matter into their fluffnut, as they will eat almost anything.
Re: Cichlid discussion
I concur with coltin's assessment, however, I'd like to add that according to the cichlid forum's profile, the Bumblebee Cichlid can actually reach lengths of up to 8 inches. Additionally, they're reported to be extremely aggressive towards both conspecifics and other species, making them a challenging addition to most community tanks, except perhaps very large Lake Malawi biotopes.
Re: Cichlid discussion
I've had one Bumblebee cichlid, and I gotta say, he was a gentle soul compared to my other mbuna. I ended up rehoming him, though - my 55gal tank just didn't feel big enough for the guy. He was only around 5-6 inches when I let him go, still a young fella.
If you're thinking of keeping one, make sure you've got a tank that's up to the task. I'm talking a minimum of 75 gallons, and you'll want to pair him with other Malawi cichlids that can hold their own - mbuna that can give as good as they get. And when it comes to food, I'd stick with a veggie-heavy diet - spirulina pellets are a good call.
If you're thinking of keeping one, make sure you've got a tank that's up to the task. I'm talking a minimum of 75 gallons, and you'll want to pair him with other Malawi cichlids that can hold their own - mbuna that can give as good as they get. And when it comes to food, I'd stick with a veggie-heavy diet - spirulina pellets are a good call.
Re: Cichlid discussion
They're pretty big but less than 75 gallon, more like 90 gallon or so, considering the space they need to swim around and be comfortable.