Giant Cichlid, also known as Emperor Cichlid, is a unique fish from the Cichlidae family. It’s only found in Lake Tanganyika in Africa.
This fish is special because it’s the only one in its genus, Boulengerochromis, and its tribe Boulengerochromini.
Giant Cichlids live close to the shore in shallow waters. People value their firm flesh highly. It’s the biggest African cichlid.
Giant Cichlid Interesting Facts
- Unique to Lake Tanganyika, Giant Cichlid is the only species in its genus and tribe.
- Found in shallow waters near shorelines, this fish prefers a pH of around 9 and temperatures between 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C).
- Males reach maturity at about 15.7 inches (40.0 centimeters) long and grow up to an impressive 31.5 inches (80.0 centimeters) in length.
- Giant Cichlid lays eggs in empty nests built by other cichlids or between rocks and sand if no nests are available.
Giant Cichlid Habitat
Giant Cichlid comes from Africa and is found only in Lake Tanganyika. It lives in freshwater and swims near the water’s surface.
The ideal pH for this fish is around 9, with a hardness (dH) of at least 10. It’s found at depths up to 85 meters (278 feet).
The ideal temperature for this species is between 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C).
Giant Cichlids are typically found in tropical areas, specifically between latitudes of 3°S to 9°S.
| Water Temperature: | 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C) |
| Water pH: | Unknown |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Giant Cichlid Physical Characteristics
Size: 31.5 inches (80.0 centimeters)
Giant Cichlid is a large fish that can grow up to 31.5 inches (80.0 centimeters) in length and weigh around 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs).
Male Giant Cichlids reach maturity when they are about 15.7 inches (40.0 centimeters) long, but the exact range for their size at maturity is not known.
Giant Cichlid Reproduction
Giant Cichlid lays its eggs in empty nests made by other cichlids.
If there are no nests, it will lay eggs between rocks or in the sand.
Giant Cichlid Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Boulengerochromis |
| Scientific Name: | Boulengerochromis microlepis |
| Also Known As: | Giant Cichlid, Emperor Cichlid |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |