Macropleurodus bicolor

Macropleurodus bicolor is a large, robust Victorian cichlid with highly developed pharyngeal mill teeth adapted for crushing hard-shelled molluscs and crustaceans. Its feeding ecology parallels that of Platytaeniodus degeni but in a different lineage, representing another independent evolution of durophagous dentition within the Victorian species flock. Males develop a dramatic black-and-white bicolour pattern at sexual maturity, making them visually impressive in large display aquariums.

This species requires a spacious aquarium and should be provided with snails, crustaceans, and other hard-shelled invertebrates as a dietary staple to maintain jaw and tooth condition. High-protein cichlid pellets supplement the diet and sustain growth. Its size and aggression level require advanced aquarist experience and a dedicated setup.

M. bicolor is a maternal mouthbrooder with reproductive behaviour typical of large Victorian cichlids. Breeding success requires a large, well-structured aquarium and careful female-to-male ratio management.

Water: 22-27°C, pH 7.0-8.5, hard alkaline; large weekly water changes essential. Tank: 250L+; robust décor; strong filtration for large bioload. Feeding: Snails, crustaceans, cichlid pellets; hard-shelled prey essential for jaw health. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; needs dedicated large species tank to breed successfully. Compatibility: Advanced large Victorian-only setup; not suitable with smaller species.