Tripod Cichlid | Triglachomis otostigma

Cichlids / Africa / Lake Tanganyika / Tripod Cichlid

Profile: Otostigma, Tripod Cichlid
Triglachomis otostigma Synonyms: Limnochromis otostigma
Physical description: An elongated fish with characteristic elongated tip on the pectoral fins. The body is brown with a silvery iridescence. The gill cover is marked with a black spot with a small silver crescent to the left. Under the eye may be a fine violet line. The fins are dark gray to black with a fine yellow line between each ray.
Size/Length: To 4.5" (12 cm)
Similar species: None
Habitat: Eastern Africa; found living on a mud or sand substrate at depths of 65-164 feet (20-50 m) in Lake Tanganyika
S: bottom, middle
Aquarium: A tank of 30" (76 cm) with a volume of 20-25 gallons (75-98 L) is adequate. Use a coral sand substrate and leave open swimming areas. The background should be rock structures with caves, over-hangs, and crevices for hiding.
Water chemistry: pH 8.2-9.0 (8.2), 10-20 dH (15), 75-81°F (24-27°C)
Social behavior: A peaceful fish that does not set-up strong territories. Instead of chasing off other fish who near their area, the Otostigma simply opens its large mouth as a warning to trespassers. The Otostigma can be combined in a Lake Tanganyika community tank.
Suggested companions: Lake Tanganyika cichlids, Lake Tanganyika Rainbowfish
FOOD: Live; insect larvae, crustaceans, Tubifex, aquatic insects; chopped meat; pellets.
Sexual differences: Unknown; possibly the fins of male fish are more elongated.
Breeding techniques: The Otostigma is known to be a mouth brooder who cares for the brood a short time after the fry hatch. Otherwise little has been discovered.
Breeding potential: 9. Spawning this far have usually been accidental.
Remarks: This species appears to be related to the bottom-dwelling marines fish of the family Triglidae.
Difficulty of care: 5. A hardy fish who requires live foods.