Enantiopus Melonogenys
Enantiopus melanogenys is a striking cichlid species native to the sandy shores of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. Known for its elongated body and flowing fins, it exhibits remarkable sexual dimorphism, with males displaying vibrant colours, including shades of blue, yellow, and black, especially during breeding. This species is a sand-dweller, using its specialized behaviour of constructing large, crater-like nests in the substrate to attract females. Enantiopus melanogenys feeds primarily on small invertebrates and microorganisms found in the sand.
Current Size – 4-5cm
Adult Length – 10-12cm
Temperature Range – 23 - 28°C
pH Range – 7.6 – 8.5
Special Requirements - All African Cichlids are territorial to other males. The more rocks and hiding places they have the better.
Tanks Mates and Compatibility – They may be kept in a larger aquarium with other herbivorous rock dwelling African cichlids along with some Synodontis catfish species.
Feeding – This cichlid is an carnivoure, preying on small insects and crustaceans in the wild, in captivity bloodworm and a good quality dry food are perfect.
Please note – Some images used are library photos and will show the colour potential at a fully mature size, as our fish are juveniles they may vary.
We always aim to supply the fish as close to the purchase size as possible. On rare occasions if this is not possible we will contact you.
The fish are selected at random however you are welcome to make a note on the order and the fish manager will do his best for you, requests are dependent on stock at the time of your order.
