Prognathochromis perrieri

Prognathochromis perrieri is a large, piscivorous Victorian haplochromine with a characteristic protruding lower jaw adapted for seizing fast-moving prey fish. In the wild, it is an active pursuit predator of the open rocky shores and is capable of consuming fish up to half its own body length. Males can reach 20 centimetres, making it one of the larger Victorian haplochromines kept in the hobby and a genuine specimen fish.

In the aquarium, P. perrieri requires a very spacious tank — 300 litres minimum — and should be housed only with fish large enough not to be eaten. It is an aggressive species that will dominate any tank it inhabits and is best reserved for single-species or large Victorian predator setups. The species is a maternal mouthbrooder.

Feeding a large piscivore in captivity requires regular provision of meaty frozen foods and high-quality carnivore pellets. Live foods are not necessary and are best avoided to prevent disease introduction.

Water: 22-27°C, pH 7.0-8.5, hard alkaline; large water changes weekly given bioload. Tank: 300L minimum; open swimming space; robust filtration. Feeding: Carnivore pellets, frozen krill, mysis, silversides; high-protein diet essential. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; dedicated single-species setup required for breeding success. Compatibility: Advanced predator-only tank; do not mix with anything small enough to be eaten.