Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Aggressive

Live Plant Safe: With Caution

General Description: The Exasperatus Cichlid, also known as the Pearl of Likoma, are endemic to shallow rocky areas of Lake Malawi around Likoma Island. Given this specific habitat niche, Exasperatus require a network of rock caves and hiding places in the aquarium. One of the more aggressive Labidochromis African cichlids, Exasperatus 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. Exasperatus are relatively easy to care for but their territorial nature may make them best left to the more advanced aquarist. As juveniles, this species has a pale body with yellow stripes. As adults, males will have a blue body with pale stripes and dark fins while females will have a pale body with a bluish hue and orange speckles. Exasperatus 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 Exasperatus. Ideally, only one male is kept per aquarium. Females do not exhibit nearly as aggressive of behavior as males. An adult Exasperatus can reach a size of approximately 5″, with females averaging smaller.

Diet Requirements: Exasperatus are primarily omnivorous, but prefer more meaty foods. Various high quality protein based flake foods and sinking pellet foods are ideal. Frozen foods such as brine shrimp, blood worms, mysis shrimp or other freshwater mixes are good choices. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 55 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single Exasperatus. 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. Exasperatus 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. Exasperatus 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: 1-1/2” to 2”

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