Limbochromis robertsi

Limbochromis robertsi is a small, monotypic West African cichlid from river systems in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. It occupies a unique phylogenetic position near the base of the West African cichlid radiation and is rarely seen in the hobby, making it a genuine rarity for the specialist. The body is silvery-olive with a dark lateral band and delicate spotting on the dorsal and caudal fins.

L. robertsi is a cave-spawner with biparental care. Both parents guard the eggs and free-swimming fry within a defined territory around the spawning cavity. The species is shy and secretive, particularly in bright open tanks, and does best in well-planted aquariums with plenty of hiding options and subdued lighting.

Soft, slightly acidic water matching the coastal forest streams of West Africa is ideal. A 80 L planted tank with leaf litter, caves, and driftwood gives this uncommon cichlid the conditions it needs to settle and eventually spawn.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft (GH 1–10, KH 1–5). Tank: 80 L; subdued lighting, leaf litter, caves, and dense planting for a shy, secretive species. Feeding: Micro pellets, quality flake, and regular live or frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworm. Breeding: Cave-spawner with biparental fry care; reduce tankmates when breeding is detected. Compatibility: Peaceful with small, non-competitive West African tetras and other gentle species.