Amphilophus rhytisma

Amphilophus rhytisma is another member of the Lake Apoyo cichlid species flock, distinguished by its unique lip morphology — the lips bear fine wrinkle-like ridges that are thought to aid in scraping biofilm and aufwuchs from rocky surfaces. This specialization sets it apart from other sympatric Amphilophus species in the lake.

Its coloration features a blue-grey to blue-green body iridescence with subtle lateral banding, and males often develop a mild frontal hump. As with all Lake Apoyo endemics, aquarium specimens are invariably captive-bred and represent an important conservation population for a species whose wild habitat is a single small volcanic lake.

Care is straightforward for an experienced cichlid keeper — the species requires warm, clear, alkaline water and a diet that includes aufwuchs-type supplements such as spirulina and algae wafers alongside standard cichlid foods.

Water: 26–30°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–18, KH 5–12; high clarity water replicating crater-lake conditions. Tank: 300 L minimum; rock piles, sandy open areas; include algae-covered surfaces for natural grazing behavior. Feeding: Omnivore — spirulina pellets, algae wafers, crushed snails, and brine shrimp for balanced nutrition. Breeding: Substrate spawner; biparental fry care; fry start feeding on micro foods within 48–72 hours. Compatibility: Other Lake Apoyo cichlids or similarly sized robust species; keep aggressive species separate.