Scientific name: Tilapia buttikoferi Common name: Zebra cichlid Family: Cichlidae Usual size in fish tanks: 28 - 31 cm (11.02 - 12.2 inch) 0 14 Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.3 Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 16°N (71.43 - 285.71ppm) 0°C 32°F 30°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 Feed a varied diet of meaty and vegetable foods. Use a quality flake and vegetable based cichlid pellets, also treat with blood worms, brine shrimp, and chopped earth worms. Origin West Africa; Zebra cichlids are mostly found in Liberia. Sexing There are no visible differences between the sexes. Breeding Zebra cichlids are cave spawners so provide upturned plant pots or artificial caves to the breeding tank. The female will lay the eggs on the roof of the cave and tend for them while the male guards the territory. The eggs should hatch after 4-5 days and the fry will be free swimming 5-6 days later. At this stage they can be fed on newly hatched brine shr4imp. Lifespan The expected life span for Tilapia buttikoferi is 10 years. Short description Tilapia buttikoferi need to be kept in an aquarium of at least 75 gallons. They are fairly easy to keep but do require large, regular water changes as they are high waste producers. The Zebra Cichlid may be aggressive to smaller tank mates, always keep this fish with similar sized ones.Also know as Buttikoferi. Pictures Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.
