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| Haplochromis ishmaeli (Ishmael's Cichlid) |
| Family: |
Cichlidae |
| Maximum Size: |
5.5" (14.0cm) |
| Distribution: |
Lake Victoria in Africa |
| Temperature Range: |
75-79oF (24-26oC) |
| pH Range: |
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| Water Hardness: |
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 Haplochromis ishmaeli occurs in shallow waters with a soft mud bottom. Examination of the stomach and intestinal contents of a number of specimens suggests that H. ishmaeli feeds almost exclusively on mollusks. Insects may be a minor component of the diet. Like most African cichlids, these fish require hard, alkaline water. This species can be aggressive, so care should be taken when placing them in a community tank. Tankmates should be of similar size and equally aggressive. Plenty of rockwork or other suitable cover should be provided for the females. Males can damage or kill females if they are not ready to spawn. While they feed almost exclusively on mollusks in the wild, they will greedily accept most prepared flake and pelleted foods. As always, it is a good idea to make sure they get at least some vegetable matter in their diet. |
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