Tyrannochromis nigriventer
NameTyrannochromis nigriventer
Scientific NameTyrannochromis nigriventer
Common NamesBlack-bellied Tyrannochromis, Malawi Hawk Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginLake Malawi, Africa
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)76-82
pH Range7.8-8.6
Compatible SpeciesFossorochromis rostratus, Nimbochromis livingstonii, Aristochromis christyi, Other large Tyrannochromis species
Description
Tyrannochromis nigriventer is a large, predatory cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, Africa. Males typically exhibit a vibrant blue body with vertical barring and a distinctive dark or black ventral area, especially when breeding. This species requires a very large aquarium and stable, hard, alkaline water conditions to thrive.
