[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cichlids – Pastel Cichlid (Callochromis pleurospilus)

This interesting and attractive slender fish is one of the sand-sifting African Rift Lake cichlids that have become progressively more widely available from the early 1990s onward. Although they vary significantly in color, most male Pastel Cichlids have a light green and pinkish metallic sheen to each of the scales on the sides, and the anal fin is often tinged with pink. The heads of the males are bluish-green, and their lips are bright blue. The females are less spectacular, being plain silver in color.

Other common name

• Redspot Callochromis

Distribution

• Shallow water throughout Lake Tanganyika.

Size

• Up to 6in (15cm).

Behavior

• Active shoaler and digger that should be kept in small groups.

Diet

• Sinking formulations and livefoods preferred.

Aquarium

• Shelter, plus ample sandy areas, must be provided. Medium-hard, alkaline, well-filtered water recommended. Temperature range: 73-77 F (23-25 C).

Breeding

• Maternal mouthbrooder. Males excavate pits to which they attract females.