The Calvus Cichlid originates from the Southwestern rocky coastal waters of Lake Tanganyika, Africa. This species is very slow growing, taking over 6 months to reach an inch and a half long, and over two years to reach sexual maturity. Their bodies are very thin and compact and are dark black in color with many small white spots. Their sloping forehead and large mouth gives them a menacing look.

The Calvus Cichlid should be maintained in an aquarium of at least 30 gallons if in a species aquarium, and a larger aquarium if maintained with other smaller Tanganyikan cichlids. Incorporate plenty of rocks, shells and African or other type of driftwood that will not alter pH. Provide a sandy bottom comprised of aragonite to maintain the necessary high pH and alkalinity.

The Calvus Cichlid is a shell spawner, and breeding is more difficult than most of the cichlids. This is a very slow growing species which may take a few years to reach sexual maturity. At that time, the males are typically larger than the females. Provide plenty empty shells for the female to lay their eggs. Incubation occurs in 3 to 4 days. To increase their survival rates, relocate the young to a separate aquarium after hatching. Feed the fry newly hatched brine shrimp and finely crushed flake food.

Their diet should contain meaty items such as blood worms, brine and mysis shrimp, carnivore flake and pellet foods.

Approximate Purchase Size: 1" to 1-3/4"