Malagasy Cichlid Natural History
Size
The Malagasy Cichlid can grow up to 18cm long.
Habitat and Distribution
They are native to Madagascar and inhabit inland wetlands. They usually can be found near the bottom of the body of water and can tolerate brackish water.
Age
The lifespan of a Malagasy Cichlid is 8-10 years old.
Diet
Like other cichlids, the Malagasy is an omnivore. They mainly eat aquatic vegetation but will also eat small aquatic organisms.
Groups and Breeding
The parents will dig a small pit in the substrate and display to each other over the pit. The eggs are then laid in the pit and will hatch 3-4 days later. Both of the parent fish will care for the young and frequently move the young around to avoid potential predators knowing where they are. When the young are free swimming, the parents will leave them.
Threats
The Malagasy Cichlid is threatened by water pollution and the commercial pet trade.
Interesting Facts
The Malagasy Cichlid is a territorial fish towards other smaller fish species. There are no visible differences between males and females.
The Malagasy Cichlid During Your Day Out in Kent
The Malagasy Cichlid can be found in our new Reptile House living alongside our Juba Cichlid fish and our Cuban Crocodiles.