East coast gray - Ptychochromis grandidieri

Scientific name: Ptychochromis grandidieri

Common name: East coast gray

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 25 cm (7.87 - 9.84 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6.5 - 7.8

Recommended water hardness: 4 - 15°N (71.43 - 267.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 22 - 27 °C (71.6 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Madagascar

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Overview

Ptychochromis grandidieri (East Coast Gray) is a robust Malagasy cichlid endemic to the lowland rivers and lagoons along Madagascar’s eastern coast. Calm but assertive, it thrives in spacious, well-filtered aquaria and rewards keepers with attentive parental care and steady, confident behavior.

Care & Tank Setup

• Tank size: Single adult ≥ 300 l / 75 gal; pair or group ≥ 450–600 l / 120–160 gal with ample floor space.
• Water parameters: pH 6.5–7.8, hardness 4–15 °dGH, temperature 22–27 °C (72–81 °F). Stability is more important than extreme values.
• Aquascape: Sand or fine gravel substrate, large flat stones/slate for spawning, driftwood, and sturdy décor to break line of sight.
• Filtration: Strong mechanical and biological filtration; weekly 30–40 % water changes.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous with a preference for protein and some vegetable matter.

• Staples: High-quality cichlid pellets/sticks, granules.
• Protein: Mysis, krill, shrimp, fish fillets, insect larvae (sparingly).
• Vegetable matter: Spirulina, blanched peas/spinach/zucchini 2–3× per week.
• Avoid: Regular feeding of fatty mammal meats; feeder fish due to disease risk.

Behavior & Compatibility

• Conspecifics: Semi-aggressive and territorial, especially when breeding. Keep pairs only in large aquaria with adequate hiding places.
• Other fish: Suitable tankmates include similarly sized, robust species (other moderate Malagasy cichlids, larger characins, armored catfish). Very small fish may be eaten.

Sexing

Sexual dimorphism is subtle: males are usually larger with more extended dorsal/anal fin tips and a bulkier, more angular head; females appear rounder when carrying eggs.

Breeding

Biparental substrate spawner. The pair cleans a flat rock/slate and deposits adhesive eggs. At 25–26 °C, larvae hatch in about 3–4 days and become free-swimming after another 3–6 days. Both parents typically guard the brood. Starter foods: infusoria or commercial fry powder, followed by freshly hatched Artemia nauplii. Growth is slow and requires patience with clean water.

Lifespan

Commonly 8–12 years in large, stable aquaria.

Origin

Endemic to eastern Madagascar (coastal rivers, backwaters, and lagoons) with moderate flow and abundant cover.

Short description

A hardy, intelligent cichlid suited for experienced aquarists who can provide very large tanks, excellent water quality, and robust tankmates. Sensitive to sudden changes; quarantine and long-term stability are essential.

Madagascar Cichlid Notes

• Endemics at risk: Many Malagasy cichlids, including Ptychochromis, are threatened in the wild due to habitat loss and invasive species.
• Stability is key: They tolerate a range of neutral–slightly alkaline water, but dislike rapid shifts in chemistry or temperature.
• Compatibility: Best with other Madagascar natives or robust, peaceful large fish; avoid overly aggressive African cichlids.
• Conservation value: Aquarium breeding may help preserve lines of species increasingly rare in nature.

At-a-Glance (Care Box)

• Size: 20–25 cm (8–10")
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial when breeding
• pH: 6.5–7.8  |  GH: 4–15 °dGH
• Temp: 22–27 °C (72–81 °F)
• Tank: Single ≥ 300 l; pair/group ≥ 450–600 l
• Diet: Omnivore (pellets, seafood, mysis/krill; some greens)
• Breeding: Biparental substrate spawner; 3–4 d to hatch
• Lifespan: 8–12 years

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.