Ctenochromis horei

Ctenochromis horei is an often-overlooked Tanganyika cichlid that occupies the sandy littoral zones of the lake, where it forages for invertebrates and organic detritus in the substrate. The tan-to-beige body is adorned with rows of dark spots arranged in horizontal lines, giving it an attractive if understated pattern. Males develop a slightly brighter colouration on the gill covers and dorsal fin during breeding season.

As a maternal mouthbrooder, C. horei diverges behaviourally from the lamprologine cave-spawners that dominate the sandy zones. Females carry the brood in the buccal cavity for approximately three weeks, releasing free-swimming fry at a relatively advanced stage of development. The species can be kept as a group of one male to two or three females without significant inter-female aggression.

Horei is suitable for intermediate aquarists who want to explore Tanganyika species beyond the classic Lamprologines. It requires a sandy-bottomed aquarium of at least 150 L with occasional rock structure and open swimming space. Hard alkaline water, good filtration, and a varied omnivorous diet will keep this interesting cichlid healthy and in breeding condition.

Water: pH 7.8–9.0, GH 10–20, KH 8–16, temperature 24–27 °C; stable and well-filtered. Tank: 150 L; sandy substrate; minimal rock structure; open swimming areas. Feeding: Omnivore; quality cichlid pellets, frozen Artemia, Mysis, vegetable-based flake; twice daily. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; female holds fry ~3 weeks; release fry to separate tank for safety. Compatibility: Can be kept in a group (1 male : 2–3 females); compatible with calm open-water Tanganyikans.