Pelvicachromis sp. 'Bioko'

Pelvicachromis sp. 'Bioko' is collected from freshwater streams on Bioko Island, an oceanic island of Equatorial Guinea in the Gulf of Guinea. Isolated from mainland populations for thousands of years, this undescribed form has developed a distinctive body shape and colour pattern — notably compact, with females displaying some of the deepest violet-magenta ventral colouration in the genus.

Hobby availability is extremely limited, making this a true collector's fish. Its care mirrors other Pelvicachromis — cave-spawning, tight pair bonds, and parental defence of fry — but the island origin means genetic integrity should be carefully maintained in captivity.

Soft, acidic conditions matching the island's rain-fed streams are recommended: pH 5.5–7.0, low conductivity, and warm temperatures around 25–27°C. Provide multiple caves and dense planting to allow pair formation without excessive aggression.

Water: 25–27°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft (GH 1–8, KH 1–4); rainwater or RO top-ups beneficial. Tank: 80 L minimum; replicate island forest stream with bogwood, leaf litter, and caves. Feeding: Micro pellets, flake, and live or frozen brine shrimp, cyclops, and bloodworm to maintain conditioning. Breeding: Cave-spawner; isolate pair to maximise fry survival and preserve this rare bloodline. Compatibility: Species tank or very peaceful nano community; avoid anything that will stress the shy pair.