Care
Dimidiochromis compressiceps is a large-growing predatory species that requires a spacious aquarium (measuring at least 6ft x 2 ft x 2ft), aquascaped to provide a good amount of swimming space. The substrate should consist of coral sand or Aragonite, which will help to maintain the desired high pH and hardness levels. Lighting should be subdued. Rocky outcrops may be created at the sides and back of the aquarium and this can be further enhanced with dense clumps of Vallisneria, which is found growing in abundance in the areas of the lake that this species inhabits. It is amongst this plant growth that they often lurk in a head-down position usually quite unseen by their intended prey. Despite its penchant for small fish, this is actually quite a peaceful species which can easily be combined with other large cichlids and catfish (over 6" in length). Only one male should be kept per tank, along with two or more females. This species is listed on the IUCN red list for endangered species and is classified as Least Concern. It is therefore preferable to purchase tank-raised specimens wherever possible in order to safeguard the wild population and prevent it from becoming a species that is more highly threatened.
Feeding
Mysis shrimp, krill, mosquito larvae, chopped prawns/cockle/mussel meat etc, plus appropriately sized quality cichlid food sticks/pellets. Caution: will eat small fish!
Breeding
Prior to spawning, the male will become quite aggressive and will dig a pit in the substrate which he will try to entice a female towards. The willing female will deposit her eggs just a few at a time and immediately after doing so, she will turn around and pick them up. At the same time, the male will rotate so that he is almost on his side, at the same time shaking and extending his anal fin, releasing his milt. The female sees the egg spots on the male's anal fin and attempts to pick up those eggs whilst she is picking up the real ones that she deposited, at the same time taking in milt. This manner in which the eggs are fertilised is often referred to as the dummy egg method and may go on for some time with typically between 50 and 150 eggs being fertilised. These eggs may be incubated in the female's mouth for up to 21 days until they hatch and the resultant fry held for a further few days afterwards. The fry will need to be transferred to a growing-on tank, as they will otherwise fall victim to the piscivorous nature of the adult fish.
