Zebra cichlid - Tilapia buttikoferi

Scientific name: Tilapia buttikoferi

Common name: Zebra cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 28 - 31 cm (11.02 - 12.2 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.3

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 16°N (71.43 - 285.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive/territorial

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

Provide a balanced diet that includes both meaty and plant-based foods to keep your Zebra Cichlid healthy. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets and flakes, supplemented with vegetable-based options. Occasionally, treat them with live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and finely chopped earthworms. This varied diet helps ensure they receive all essential nutrients for optimal growth and health.

Origin

The Zebra Cichlid is native to West Africa, predominantly found in the waters of Liberia. This region's unique aquatic environment contributes to the fish's distinct characteristics and coloration.

Breeding

Zebra Cichlids are cave spawners, so it's essential to provide breeding sites such as upturned plant pots or artificial caves in the breeding tank. The female deposits her eggs on the underside of the cave, where she will guard them diligently. Meanwhile, the male defends the territory. The eggs typically hatch within 4-5 days, and the fry become free-swimming 5-6 days later. At this stage, you can feed them newly hatched brine shrimp to support their growth and development.

Lifespan

The Zebra Cichlid, scientifically known as Tilapia buttikoferi, has an expected lifespan of up to 10 years with proper care.

Short Description

Tilapia buttikoferi thrives in aquariums of at least 280 liters (75 gallons). While relatively easy to care for, they require large, regular water changes due to their high waste production. Zebra Cichlids can be aggressive towards smaller tank mates, so it's best to house them with similarly sized fish. They are also known as Buttikoferi.

Pictures

Images provided by aqua-fish.net, courtesy of jjphoto.dk.