Ophthalmotilapia boops
Ophthalmotilapia boops
Also known as: Boops Featherfin, Large-Eyed Featherfin
Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 15 cm
- Min Tank
- 200 L
- Lifespan
- 8-12
- Swimming Level
- middle
- Schooling
- Yes (4–8+)
- Diet
- omnivore
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive males; peaceful toward different species
About
Ophthalmotilapia boops is one of four species in this featherfin genus and is characterised by notably large eyes and iridescent blue-green body colouration over a pale base. Breeding males develop elongated ventral filaments used in mating displays, identical in function to those of O. ventralis. A maternal mouthbrooder, it is best kept in a harem group.
Care Guide
Water: 24-27°C, pH 7.8-9.0, hard alkaline water. Tank: 200L minimum; sandy floor with sparse rockwork; plenty of open water. Feeding: Spirulina-based staple; occasional frozen cyclops or Mysis; avoid high-protein only diets. Behaviour: One dominant male per tank; spawning involves elaborate ventral-fin egg-dummy displays. Compatibility: Xenotilapia flavipinnis, Cyprichromis leptosoma, Aulonocranus dewindti.
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