Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Aggressive

Live Plant Safe: No

General Description: The Elongatus Cichlid is endemic to shallow rocky areas of Lake Malawi. Given this specific habitat niche, Elongatus require a network of rock caves and hiding places in the aquarium. One of the most aggressive African cichlids, Elongatus may be referred to as a ‘mbuna’, which is a general term to characterize various Malawian cichlid species that share a similar body shape and belligerent temperament. Elongatus are relatively easy to care for but their territorial nature may make them best left to the more advanced aquarist. This species typically has a bluish body with dark horizontal stripes along the flanks, and black fins with the exception of the caudal fin that is yellow. Elongatus should be kept in an overcrowded tank with other like-temperamented heterospecific fish to spread out or reduce aggression, especially if you are trying to keep multiple Elongatus. There are few diagnosable differences between male and female Elongatus, though egg spots on the male’s anal fin are said to be brighter. An adult Elongatus can reach a size of approximately 5″, with females averaging about an inch smaller.

Diet Requirements: Elongatus are primarily herbivorous and such foods should make up a large portion of their diet. Various high quality vegetable and spirulina based flake foods and sinking pellet foods are ideal. Frozen spirulina brine shrimp can be fed in moderation. Blanched vegetables are excellent options. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish. Elongatus should not be fed a diet high in protein, and avoid beef heart altogether, as this disturbs their digestive system. This species could help to contral nuisance hair algae growth.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 55 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single Elongatus. Biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters up to standard (Nitrates < 30 ppm). The aquarium should be aquascaped generously with stacked rocks to create many hiding spaces and caves. Elongatus are indifferent to open swimming space because this is an area in which they rarely explore in the wild. A sandy or fine substrate is preferred and the aquarium needs to be well oxygenated. African cichlid specific substrates, or even marine Aragonite substrate, are great choices because they will buffer the pH and alkalinity to levels characteristic of Lake Malawi. Elongatus will do well with other pugnacious Malawian cichlids; avoid more “peaceful” species, such as peacocks. Recommended water conditions, 74-80° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.5-8.5.

Purchase Size: Medium: 1-3/4” to 2”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.