Fossorochromis rostratus

Fossorochromis rostratus is a dramatic sand-sifting haplochromine from Lake Malawi with a distinctly elongated, downturned snout used to excavate invertebrates from the sandy lake floor. Breeding males are stunning — cobalt-blue heads contrasting with a yellow-orange lower body and brilliant white dorsal fin. A fascinating behavioural species that creates attractive natural sand mounds in a suitably spacious setup.

Provide a large aquarium (400L+) with a deep, fine sandy substrate for sifting behaviour. Maintain hard, alkaline Malawi water. Feed quality cichlid pellets with meaty supplements. Keep 1 male with multiple females. Other sand-sifting cichlids make good companions. The sand sifting behaviour is fascinating to observe.