Rainbow Callochromis (Callochromis pleurospilus)
£32.00
Callochromis Pleurospilus
Bulk Offer – 3 for £90.00
Discount will apply at checkout.
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Description
Rainbow Callochromis (Callochromis pleurospilus)
Species Care Sheet:
Overview.
The Rainbow Callochromis (Callochromis pleurospilus) is a lively, sand-dwelling cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. Often referred to as a “dwarf” cichlid due to its compact size, it is renowned for its subtle yet brilliant iridescent colours that shift under different lighting. Unlike the larger C. macrops, this species is slightly more peaceful, making it a popular choice for intermediate Tanganyikan enthusiasts.
Aquarium Parameters.
- Minimum Tank Size: 200–240 litres (approx. 45–55 gallons) for a small group. A tank length of at least 100 cm (3 feet) is recommended to accommodate territorial behaviour.
- Water Temperature: 23°C to 28°C.
- pH Level: 7.8 – 9.0 (Stable, alkaline conditions are vital).
- Water Hardness: 10–25 dGH (Hard water).
Diet & Feeding.
Callochromis pleurospilus is primarily carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates by sifting through the substrate in the wild.
- Substrate Sifting: They naturally forage by filtering sand through their gills.
- Recommended Foods: Sinking high-protein pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, daphnia, cyclops.
- Feeding Tip: Avoid purely floating foods, as these bottom-dwellers prefer to feed from the sand.
Behaviour & Compatibility.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive and highly territorial among their own kind (conspecific aggression).
- Social Structure: Best kept in a harem—typically one male with 4 to 6 females. Keeping more than one male requires a very large aquarium (over 180 cm/6 feet) to prevent lethal fighting.
- Tank Mates: Compatible with other Tanganyikan species such as Julidochromis, Altolamprologus (Calvus/Compressiceps), and Neolamprologus. Use caution with other sand-dwellers like Xenotilapia to ensure there is enough floor space for both.
Aquarium Setup.
- Substrate: Fine sand is essential. This species sifts sand for food and may bury itself completely when spooked, leaving only its eyes exposed.
- Decor: Use rock piles to create caves and visual barriers, which help females and sub-dominant fish escape a territorial male’s gaze.
- Plants: Hardy plants like Anubias or Vallisneria can be added to provide extra shelter.
- Water Quality: Sensitive to poor water conditions; regular 20-30% water changes are necessary to keep nitrates low.
Physical Characteristics.
- Size: Typically reaches 8–11 cm (3–4 inches).
- Sexual Dimorphism: Males are larger and display vibrant iridescent scales (blues, greens, and reds); females remain a consistent silvery-grey.
- Breeding: They are maternal mouthbrooders. Males construct volcano-shaped sand nests (approx. 15 cm in diameter) to attract females.
Convenient nationwide delivery; you’re only a click away!
Our nationwide delivery service makes it easy to receive your fish directly at your door, anywhere in the UK, for a flat rate of just £30. This convenient service allows you to order up to 10kg of fish, with the assurance that they will arrive in excellent condition. To make the fishes journey as comfortable as possible we use Oxygen in the fish bags and heat packs in all the boxes of fish we send out.
For your peace of mind we enclose a slip which will explain what to do in the event of a fish not traveling too well.
We use a licensed courier to deliver your fish directly to you door and will be with you by 1pm the next day.
Our delivery days are as follows:
Tuesday for Wednesday delivery
Wednesday for Thursday delivery
Thursday for Friday delivery
Please put your desired delivery day in the Order Notes on the Checkout page.
General Enquiries
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