Congochromis sabinae

Congochromis sabinae was formally described from forest stream habitats in the Congo basin, and is one of the more recently characterised members of this small West/Central African genus. It is a slender, moderately coloured cichlid with soft blue-green body iridescence and a lightly spotted dorsal fin, most attractive when kept in well-planted setups under appropriate lighting.

The genus Congochromis contains cave-spawning cichlids with relatively gentle temperaments compared to many African cichlids. C. sabinae is no exception — pairs form bonds and defend a territory around the chosen spawning cavity, but the aggression radius is relatively small, allowing cohabitation with peaceful dither fish.

Soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.5–7.0) and a planted aquarium with leaf litter, bogwood, and caves of various sizes replicates the species' forest stream habitat. A 60 L tank is sufficient for a single breeding pair.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft (GH 1–10, KH 1–5). Tank: 60 L minimum; plants, leaf litter, driftwood, and small caves for spawning. Feeding: Micro pellets, quality flake, and regular frozen/live brine shrimp, daphnia, and cyclops. Breeding: Cavity-spawner; pair bonds and defends small territory — provide 2–3 cave options. Compatibility: Peaceful with small, active upper-level fish; well-suited to planted nano community setups.