Tanganyika clown - Eretmodus cyanostictus

Scientific name: Eretmodus cyanostictus

Common name: Tanganyika clown

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 8 - 9 cm (3.15 - 3.54 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 7.6 - 8.9

Recommended water hardness: 14 - 23°N (250 - 410.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 24 - 27 °C (75.2 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and Feeding

Eretmodus cyanostictus is primarily an algae grazer that feeds on biofilm and microorganisms growing on rocks in Lake Tanganyika. In the aquarium, they require a diet rich in vegetable matter. Offer high-quality spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and plant-based cichlid foods as a staple.

Supplement their diet occasionally with small amounts of frozen or live foods such as daphnia or Cyclops. Avoid excessive feeding of protein-rich foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp, as these may lead to digestive problems. Frequent small feedings are preferred, and natural algae growth in the aquarium is highly beneficial.

Origin

Eretmodus cyanostictus is endemic to Lake Tanganyika in Africa. This species inhabits shallow rocky shorelines, often in areas exposed to wave action. They cling to rocks and graze on algae and biofilm in these high-oxygen environments.

Tank Setup and General Care

A rocky aquarium setup is essential for this species. Provide plenty of flat stones and rock surfaces for grazing. Strong filtration and good oxygenation are important, as these fish naturally live in wave-swept habitats with high oxygen levels.

Use sand or fine gravel substrate and ensure rocks are stable. Moderate to strong water movement is recommended. Plants are not necessary, but hardy species attached to rocks can be used. Maintain hard, alkaline water conditions typical of Lake Tanganyika.

Temperament and Compatibility

Eretmodus cyanostictus is territorial, especially toward its own species. It is best kept as a bonded pair. Keeping multiple individuals in small aquariums often results in aggression. In larger tanks, they may coexist with other Tanganyikan species occupying different territories.

Suitable tank mates include Cyprichromis, Altolamprologus, and other non-competing Tanganyika cichlids. Avoid keeping them with aggressive rock-dwelling species or fish that compete for algae grazing areas.

Sexing

Sexing Eretmodus cyanostictus is difficult. Females are usually slightly larger and more robust. Males may display slightly brighter coloration, but differences are subtle. Observing pair bonding behavior is often the most reliable method.

Breeding

Eretmodus cyanostictus is a biparental mouthbrooder. After spawning, the female initially collects the eggs in her mouth. The male fertilizes the eggs, and the parents may alternate incubation. This alternating mouthbrooding behavior is characteristic of the species.

After incubation, fry are released and guarded by the parents. The young can be fed finely crushed spirulina flakes, algae-based foods, and newly hatched brine shrimp in small amounts.

Lifespan

With proper care, Eretmodus cyanostictus typically lives between 5 and 8 years. Stable water parameters, a vegetable-rich diet, and adequate territory help ensure long-term health.

Short Description

Eretmodus cyanostictus is a rock-dwelling algae-grazing cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. Best kept as a pair, this species requires rocky aquariums, hard alkaline water, and a vegetable-rich diet. Their unusual biparental mouthbrooding behavior makes them an interesting species for Tanganyika setups.

Picture

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