Abactochromis labrosus

Abactochromis labrosus

Abactochromis labrosus has been part of the Mbuna group since it’s first recording as a species. This is a disputed classification however as there are discussions if the fish is actually a Mbuna. There are no other Mbuna with such lobate lips as the Abactochromis labrosus.

After spending nearly 75 years as the Melanochromis labrosus Michael K. Oliver and Matthew E. Arnegard have redefined this species and added this fish as the only species to the new genus Abactochromis. The name is derived from Latin and abactus meaning exiled, chromis means fish. The species name labrosus, is Greek and means big lip, a reference to the big and lobate lips of the fish.

Synonyms: Cyrtocara labrosa, Haplochromis labrosus, Melanochromis labrosus

Description

The males grow up to 15 centimeters, females stay a little bit smaller with 12 centimeters. Their key feature however is he big lobate lips that these fish have.

Behavior

Abactochromis labrosus can be quite aggressive towards fellow species.

Diet

Their diet consists of smaller Mbuna species and shellfish that they suck out of crevices and burrows of the bedrock with their lobate lips.

The Aquarium

Minimal length of the tank: 150 cm
Water conditions: pH 7.0-8.5 dH 10-15
Temperature between 23 and 26° C.

Video

Author

John de Lange

Copyright images

Jason Selong – BigSkyCichlids
Adrian Duff