Big Lips Mbuna
Petrotilapia tridentiger
Also known as: Big Lips Mbuna, Tridentiger Mbuna
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 16 cm
- Min Tank
- 200 L
- Lifespan
- 5-10
- Swimming Level
- middle
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- herbivore
- Temperament
- semi-aggressive, strict algae grazer
About
Petrotilapia tridentiger is notable for its extraordinarily hypertrophied lips, a specialised adaptation for scraping aufwuchs algae from rock surfaces in Lake Malawi. The lips are significantly enlarged compared to other mbuna, giving it an unmistakable appearance. Males display attractive blue-grey colouration. It is an interesting specialised species for the dedicated Malawi enthusiast.
Care Guide
Water: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, hard alkaline; excellent water quality maintained. Tank: 200L minimum with large flat rock surfaces to replicate natural grazing habitat. Feeding: Strict algae-based diet; spirulina products exclusively; no protein to prevent bloat. Behaviour: Moderately aggressive mbuna; typical territorial behaviour around rocks. Compatibility: Standard mbuna community; compatible with Metriaclima and Pseudotropheus.
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