Tetrastigma Cichlid (Otopharynx Tetrastigma)

A Lake Malawi cichlid signed with four dark blotches.

The Tetrastigma Cichlid (Otopharynx tetrastigma), available at 4–7 cm, is a semi-aggressive Malawi cichlid with striking markings, ideal for hard, alkaline setups and experienced aquarists.

• Water conditions: Otopharynx tetrastigma comes from Lake Malawi and needs stable, hard, alkaline water. Aim for a temperature of 24–27°C (75–81°F), pH 7.8–8.6, general hardness around 10–20 dGH and moderate to high carbonate hardness. Keep ammonia and nitrite at zero and nitrate low through regular maintenance. These cichlids appreciate high oxygen levels and moderate water movement, so use a canister filter, sump or powerful internal filter with good surface agitation. A sand substrate is ideal because it reflects their natural sandy habitat, and it should be combined with rockwork, caves and open swimming space. For a group of adults, plan for a tank of at least 120 cm / 250 litres; smaller aquariums can be used for short-term grow-out of 4–7 cm juveniles, but the adult size and activity level require a larger footprint. Keep parameters stable, as sudden swings in pH or temperature can cause stress.
• Suitable tank mates: This is a semi-aggressive Malawi cichlid, so tank mates should be robust enough to handle occasional territorial behaviour but not so aggressive that the Tetrastigma is constantly bullied. Good choices include similar-sized peaceful haplochromines, peacocks, mild-mannered mbuna in a generously sized setup, and bottom-dwelling Synodontis catfish. Avoid tiny fish that could be seen as food, slow-moving long-finned species, and softwater community fish that need acidic conditions. If keeping more than one Otopharynx tetrastigma, use a large tank with plenty of visual barriers and aim for one male with several females; multiple males can work only in very spacious setups with clear territories. Avoid mixing with highly aggressive mbuna or very territorial breeding groups. Always quarantine new livestock and monitor the first few weeks closely for chasing, fin damage or hiding.
• Feeding habits: The Tetrastigma Cichlid is an opportunistic omnivore in the wild and adapts well to a varied aquarium diet. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets as the staple, plus spirulina-based foods, frozen or live mysis, brine shrimp, krill and occasional bloodworm. Vegetable matter such as blanched spinach, zucchini or spirulina flake helps provide balanced nutrition. Feed two or three small meals per day, and reduce portions if fish become overweight or water quality suffers. Juveniles at 4–7 cm can be fed more frequently in small amounts to support growth, while adults do well with controlled portions. Avoid overfeeding, especially with high-protein foods, and remove uneaten food promptly. A varied diet supports colour, condition and natural foraging behaviour.
• Care requirements: Although often considered milder than many Malawi cichlids, Otopharynx tetrastigma still needs conscientious care. Acclimatise new arrivals carefully, preferably by drip acclimation, and quarantine where possible. Perform weekly water changes of around 25–30%, clean mechanical filtration regularly and test pH, hardness, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate to catch problems early. Provide open sand areas for swimming plus rock caves and broken sightlines to reduce aggression. Watch for signs of stress such as clamped fins, hiding, ragged edges or reduced appetite. This species is a maternal mouthbrooder, and breeding females may become more territorial; if breeding occurs, allow the female space and avoid unnecessary disturbance. Keep the lid secure, maintain stable temperature and avoid sudden changes. With stable water, correct diet and thoughtful tank-mate selection, the Tetrastigma Cichlid is a rewarding semi-aggressive Malawi species for aquarists who can meet its specialised needs.