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The Buttikoferi Cichlid is also known as the Zebra Tilapia and comes from the river systems of Western Africa. The coloration of this fish is a series of black and white vertical stripes. Although it can be peaceful when young, as it grows, so does its disposition, which becomes very territorial.
The ideal setup for the Buttikoferi Cichlid is a tank of at least 75 gallons with plenty of rocks for territories and a medium-sized gravel planted with hardy plants. This fish will become aggressive towards smaller fish, so it is important to keep it with similar-sized fish, or in a species tank.
Currently, the Buttikoferi Cichlid is being successfully bred in farms and aquariums. Like all Tilapia, these fish are mouth brooders. The female will carry the eggs in her mouth for a period of several weeks depending on the temperature, and then release the fry into the aquarium.
Feed the Buttikoferi Cichlid a variety of both meaty and vegetable-based foods. Live foods should be offered such as brine shrimp, earthworms, and mosquito larvae. A quality flake and tablet food containing vegetable matter should also be included in its diet.
Ideal tank mates include other aggressive African Cichlids and African Catfish of the genus Synodontis.
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Name: Buttikoferi Cichlid (Tilapia buttikoferi)
Family: Cichlidae Range: West Africa Size: Up to 12 inches Diet: Omnivore Tank Set-up: Freshwater: Rocks, plants, gravel Tank Conditions: 72-82°F; pH 7.8-8.5; dH 10-15 Minimum Tank Capacity: 75 gallons Light: Low Temperament: Aggressive Swimming Level: Middle Care Level: Easy Reproduction: Mouth Brooder |
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