Venustus Cichlid

Nimbochromis venustus

Also known as: Giraffe Cichlid

A large, giraffe-patterned predator that ambushes prey by playing dead in the sand.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

76–82°F

pH

7.8–8.6

Hardness

10–25 dGH

Max size

10 in

Min tank

100 gal

Temperament

Aggressive

Social

Social

Swim level

Mid-bottom

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

8-10 years

Breeding

Mouthbrooder

Suitability

Intermediate

Origin

Lake Malawi (Africa)

A big Malawi hap with bold blotches and a blue-faced male. Famously feigns death on the bottom to lure small fish. Needs a large tank, hard alkaline water, and robust tankmates.