Emperor Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Orrling&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Orrling (page does not exist)">Orrling</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameEmperor Cichlid
Scientific NameBoulengerochromis microlepis
Common NamesEmperor Cichlid, Giant Cichlid, Tanganyika Perch
FamilyCichlidae
OriginAfrica, Lake Tanganyika
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)500
Max Size (Inches)30
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-80
pH Range7.8-9.0
Compatible SpeciesNone
Description
The Emperor Cichlid is the largest cichlid species found in Lake Tanganyika, known for its impressive size and predatory nature. This highly aggressive carnivore requires an extremely large aquarium and is suitable only for expert aquarists. It is a formidable piscivore, preying on other fish in its natural habitat.
