Otopharynx Lithobates (Zimbawe Rock)

Aristo Yellow Blaze Cichlid

Max Size:

6.0"

Temperament:

Mildly Aggressive

Water Temperature:

78 - 82°F

Diet:

Carnivore

Min. Tank Size:

55 Gal

Description:

This is one of the less-aggressive Haplochromis from Lake Malawi in Africa. The Otopharynx Lithobates or Yellow Blaze Lithobates cichlid features a bright yellow blaze that runs over its head and down the edge of its dorsal fin to the tip of its tail. This feature is contrasted by its blue body, giving this fish a truly stunning look. Their colors and low aggressions level have made them a highly sought after cichlid in the hobby.

Compatibility:

Yellow Blaze Lithobates are fairly mild mannered, and can mix well with other less aggressive Haps, and Peacocks. Like with most other African cichlids, a breeding male will show higher levels of aggression towards other males and males of closely related species. Some compatible fish are the Sunshine Peacock, the Bi-Color 500 Peacock, and the Azureus cichlid.

Tank Requirements and Feeding:

These cichlids don't get too big and are similar in size to many of the Peacock cichlids from Lake Malawi. Male Yellow Blaze Lithobates will grow to be about 6". The tank should be big enough to provide plenty of space to swim and there should be plenty of rocks to create caves and passageways for the fish to claim territories or seek protection. The substrate should be sand or fine gravel, and the water should be hard with a temperature between 78-82°F and a pH of 7.8-8.6. Additives like Cichlid Lake Salt and Malawi/Victoria Buffer will condition the aquarium water for African cichlids.

The Otopharynx Lithobates is a carnivore and should be fed foods that are high in protein. Commercial foods like cichlid pellets and flakes that are protein based are an excellent choice for maintaining the health and vibrant colors of these fish.

Breeding:

Yellow Blaze Lithobates are sexually dimorphic fish, which means that males display the bright colors and females remain a silverish-grey color with black spots. Males will also typically grow to be slightly larger than females.

Yellow Blaze Lithobates are mouthbrooders, which means that the female will carry the eggs and fry in her mouth to protect them after spawning. In a home aquarium it is best to have one male and several females to divide the male's attention up between the females. After spawning, the female will pick up the eggs and carry them in her mouth for three weeks or longer.