keeping the mozambique mouthbreeder

[infold]

I'm still on the lookout for info about a fish that's stuck in my head - the Mozambique Mouthbreeder. I've been wondering, is this a real species or just a name some sellers use for a different fish?

[fineman]

I'm pretty sure you're thinking of the Mozambique Mouthbrooder, also known as Oreochromis mossambicus. A quick search online can give you all the info you need - it's a real species, not just a trade name. You can find expert facts, care advice, and more on websites like fishkeeper.co.uk.

[gildfish]

I think you mean this - the Mozambique Mouthbrooder, also known as Oreochromis mossambicus. (Google is your friend)

Expert facts, care advice, feeding tips and breeding information about the Mozambique Mouthbrooder for freshwater aquarium enthusiasts can be found on www.fishkeeper.co.uk.

Also, check out Seriously Fish - https://www.seriouslyfish.com/species/o ... ssambicus/. Pretty sure that's the one you're thinking of.

[graye]

Oreochromis mossambicus - a large (35cm) food fish some people kept juveniles of, until they grew out of their tanks.

[infold]

I'm old-school, relying on memory over Google. But it seems this Mozambique Mouthbrooder is a beast of a fish, much larger than I recalled. In my fish-keeping days, I never witnessed a Mouthbreeder cichlid showcasing its paternal side – I imagine it's quite a sight. Are there smaller species that wouldn't require a massive tank, or am I stuck with the likes of this lunker?

[graye]

I'd recommend the red hump Geophagus - their mouthbrooding is more intricate than the mbuna. They create a refuge for their young by constantly picking them up. In contrast, Rift Lake mouthbrooders release the fry and show no further interest.

I was lucky enough to witness an incredible display of mouthbrooding with Chromidotilapia guentheri - they're quite rare, and despite being peaceful, they reach a size of 14-15cm. If you're looking for a smaller, more complex mouthbrooder, Geophagus steindachneri is a good choice.