Astatotilapia sp. 'Piebald'

Astatotilapia sp. 'Piebald' is an undescribed cichlid from Ugandan waters exhibiting a striking piebald pattern — irregular patches of black and white distributed across the body — that is exceptional among haplochromine cichlids. This pattern is not a leucistic or xanthic variant but appears to be the natural base coloration of this undescribed form, distinguishing it from all other described Victorian cichlids.

Its biological status as a valid species, hybrid, or polymorphic population form is still debated among Victorian cichlid researchers. Regardless of its taxonomic status, the Piebald is a captivating aquarium fish that attracts considerable interest from collectors who appreciate unusual or undescribed Victorian cichlids.

Care requirements are typical for a mid-sized Astatotilapia: hard alkaline water, rocky décor, a harem arrangement, and a varied diet. Aquarists who obtain this species are encouraged to maintain accurate records to assist future taxonomic work.

Water: 22-27°C, pH 7.0-8.5, moderately hard; standard weekly partial water changes. Tank: 150L minimum; rocky décor with multiple territory zones. Feeding: Cichlid pellets, spirulina, frozen invertebrates; varied diet. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; keep breeding records to assist taxonomic research. Compatibility: Victorian species tank; keep with visually and behaviourally compatible species.