Haplochromis Compressiceps Malawi African Cichlid

Overview

Dimidiochromis compressiceps, the Malawi Eye-Biter, is a laterally flattened ambush predator with a long head, huge mouth and, in mature males, a shimmering metallic blue body with orange-red anal and pelvic fins. Endemic to Lake Malawi, it lurks head-down among Vallisneria beds in the shallows. An impressive predator for experienced keepers with a large hap tank.

• Adult Size: Around 20–25 cm (8–10 in); females smaller
• Lifespan: 7–10 years

Origin

• Native to: Lake Malawi, East Africa
• Habitat: Shallow sandy areas with patches of submerged plants

Feeding

• Diet: Carnivorous piscivore
• Preferred Foods: Prawn, mussel, cockle, lancefish, krill, large cichlid pellets
• Feeding Habits: Once daily; wean onto dead foods, pellets only as a supplement; feeder fish are not needed and risk disease

Tank Mates

• Best with: Large haps such as Cyrtocara moorii, Copadichromis, Fossorochromis, Synodontis
• Avoid: Any fish under 12 cm, mbuna, hyperactive tank mates

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Predatory but placid with large tank mates
• Territoriality: Males become territorial only when spawning, so plenty of cover helps

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
• Challenges: Eats smaller fish, needs a big tank and may refuse dry food at first; stable, well-filtered water is essential

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, hard and alkaline
• Temperature: 23–28°C (73–82°F)
• pH: 7.5–8.8
• Hardness: 10–25 dGH
• Flow: Slow to moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 300 litres with a 150 cm long footprint; larger for a breeding group

Final Notes

This fish will eventually swallow anything that fits its mouth, so plan the community around its adult size from the outset. It is a polygamous maternal mouthbrooder; keep one male with three to six females and a few tall plants or wood for its head-down hunting posture. Despite the fearsome name, it is calm and graceful with suitably sized companions.