Haplochromis obliquidens

Haplochromis obliquidens, sometimes called the Zebra Obliquidens, is arguably the most commonly kept Victorian haplochromine in the hobby. Its wide availability stems from its hardiness and readiness to breed in captivity. Males develop attractive oblique orange-red and iridescent blue banding at maturity, creating a visually pleasing display. Females and juveniles show the characteristic zebra-barred pattern from which the common name derives.

Originally collected from multiple locations around Lake Victoria, captive-bred stock is now widely available and has made this species accessible to aquarists at all levels. Its temperament is moderate for a Victorian cichlid, and it can be kept in a mixed Victorian community with careful species selection.

H. obliquidens is an omnivore that thrives on quality cichlid pellets supplemented with spirulina-based foods and frozen invertebrates. It is an excellent ambassador species for aquarists looking to explore the diversity of the Lake Victoria cichlid flock.

Water: 22-27°C, pH 7.0-8.5, moderately hard; standard weekly partial changes. Tank: 150L minimum; mixed décor with rockwork and open swimming zones. Feeding: Quality pellets and spirulina as staple; frozen foods as supplement. Breeding: Easy maternal mouthbrooder; breeds freely in captivity. Compatibility: Best in Victorian community; may mix with similarly sized peaceful cichlids.