Labidochromis gigas
Labidochromis gigas was first described by Digby S. C. Lewis in 1982. The species does not yet have a common name.
The genus name Labidochromis is derived from Greek: “labidos” meaning “forceps” or”scissors”, referring to the forward-pointing anterior teeth of Labidochromis vellicans, which form a pincer-like mouth with which insects and ostracods are plucked from algal mats; and”chromis”, a name dating back to Aristotle, possibly derived from”chroemo” (whinny), referring to a drumfish (Sciaenidae) and its ability to make sound, later extended to cichlids, jufferfish, dotted perches and wrasses (all perch-like fishes once considered related ), often used in the names of African cichlid genera following Chromis (now Oreochromis) mossambicus Peters 1852.
The species name gigas is also of Greek origin and means “giant” or “large” , referring to the relatively large body size of this species compared to other Labidochromis species; it reaches more than 100 mm TL and is the largest member of the genus.
Description of Labidochromis gigas
Labidochromis gigas has an elongated, slightly laterally flattened body, typical of cichlids. The head is slightly iridescent blue or turquoise on top, darker blue below the eyes and greyer towards the snout. In territorial males, there is a sharp dividing line between the color of the upper and lower parts of the head. A dark stripe under the eyes may or may not be present. The flanks are bright blue with striking dark vertical stripes (seven under the dorsal fin) that extend from top to bottom across the flanks and continue slightly into the dorsal fin. Green iridescent spots are visible on the gill cover. The throat and gill membranes are light gray. The fish reaches a maximum length of more than 10 cm (SL), making it the largest member of the genus Labidochromis.
The dorsal fin is light blue or blue-gray, usually darker at the base and lighter at the top. A dark submarginal stripe may or may not be present. The fin edges are white or very light blue, with darker fin rays. The caudal fin is blue-gray, lighter at the tips; the fin rays are dark, the membranes light. The anal fin is light to dark gray with a thick submarginal stripe and a white edge. The pelvic fins are gray with black outer fin rays and a white outer edge. The pectoral fins are translucent with dark fin rays. Preserved specimens may retain their white coloration or become uniformly light brown.
Sexual Dimorphism and Stages of Development.
Males are bright blue with prominent dark vertical stripes, while females are olive brown with dark brown vertical stripes. Males are considerably larger than females and show a more pronounced color pattern. Territorial males actively defend their territory against other males. Behavioral differences between the sexes are mainly related to reproduction; females are mouthbrooders.
Behavior and Temperament
Labidochromis gigas is a relatively peaceful species within its own species, but can be territorial towards other males. They do not live in schools, but rather in small groups or pairs, with a harem structure (one male with several females). They are bottom dwellers and prefer rocky habitats in shallow water (up to about 12 meters deep), where they feed on algae and small invertebrates. They are not shy and can be observed relatively easily.
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of Labidochromis gigas in the wild is unknown, but in an aquarium they can live for several years. The exact lifespan depends on aquarium conditions such as water quality, nutrition and stress level.
Biotope of Labidochromis gigas
Labidochromis gigas is found in the wild on the Likoma and Chisumulu islands in Lake Malawi, located in Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania. The species is found mainly in the rocky coastal areas surrounding these islands. There is evidence that the species also occurs near Cape Maclear, but this is considered a potentially non-natural site.
Its natural habitat consists of rocky, shallow coastal areas of Lake Malawi, to a depth of about 12 meters. Much underwater vegetation is present in the form of algal mats (aufwuchs) on the rocks. The banks are rocky and there is little to no tree cover. The bottom consists mainly of rocky substrate with crevices and hollows.
Labidochromis gigas lives in a tropical climate with stable temperature and no extreme seasonal variations.
Diet of Labidochromis gigas
Diet in the Wild: In their natural habitat in Lake Malawi, Labidochromis gigas feeds primarily on algae (aufwuchs), particularly filamentous algae. Although primarily herbivorous, they also ingest small invertebrates such as insect larvae, chironomid larvae, ostracods and small gastropods. The exact composition of their diet may vary depending on the availability of food in their specific habitat.
Diet in the Aquarium: In an aquarium, Labidochromis gigas can be fed a varied diet that mimics their natural diet. Good options include high-quality algae wafers, spirulina-rich foods and other plant-based food supplements. Small amounts of high-quality flake or pellet food can be added, but it is important to avoid a diet too rich in animal protein, as this can lead to excessive growth and health problems. It is essential to strike a balance between plant and animal foods, with the plant portion making up the bulk of the diet. Regular feeding with small portions is better than large amounts less frequently.
The Aquarium
A small group of Labidochromis gigas (for example, one male and two to three females) requires an aquarium of at least 300 liters or a length of 120 centimeters and 50 centimeters depth. For larger groups or several pairs, a considerably larger aquarium is required, as despite their relatively small size, these fish can be territorial, especially the males.
The setup should mimic the fish’s natural habitat. Thus, the aquarium should contain rocks with many crevices and cavities as hiding places. A sandy bottom is most suitable; gravel is less commonly used. Plants are not essential, but can be added to complement the setup, provided they can withstand the grazing activity of the fish. Rocks should be positioned to provide both open swimming areas and sheltered areas.
The optimal water values for Labidochromis gigas are a pH of 7.5 to 8.5 and a temperature between 22 and 26°C.
Compatibility with Other Species
Labidochromis gigas can be relatively peaceful with other Mbuna species, but it is important to consider the size and temperament of the other fish. Avoid larger, aggressive species or those with similar territorial behavior. Keeping together with Non-Mbunas is strongly discouraged due to their different dietary preferences and behaviors.
Breeding Labidochromis gigas
You can just breed Labdichromis gigas in an aquarium with other species. If you want to keep more young fish it is advisable to use a special aquarium for the young fish.
The male chooses a spot in the sand where he wants to spawn. With his most beautiful colors and wide set fins, he swims in front of the female with trembling movements. As she moves along to the spawning site chosen by the male, they circle each other. The female lays in the sand one or a few eggs that are immediately fertilized by the male. The female flips through and takes the eggs into her maw.
The eggs hatch in the female’s maw after a few days. However, she keeps the young fish in her maw for about 3 weeks after the eggs are deposited. All this time, the female eats little to nothing. After three weeks, she releases the young fish among the rocks.
With other adult fish in the aquarium, the young are often soon eaten. If you want to keep more, catch the female from the main aquarium around day 17. Place her in a rearing aquarium with some sand on the bottom and a place for her to hide. After releasing the young fish, she will not eat them immediately. You have plenty of time to place her back in the main aquarium.
Details about Labidochromis gigas
Various details about Labidochromis gigas not covered in previous chapters. Below is an overview:
- Geographic Variation: Geographic variation in color pattern is reported. For example, specimens from Chinyankhwazi Island are redder than those from Monkey Bay, and specimens from Thumbi West Island are much paler. This variation may indicate adaptations to local conditions or the beginning of allopatric speciation.
- Diet and Food Preference: Although Labidochromis gigas is primarily herbivorous and feeds on filamentous algae, they also ingest small invertebrates. The exact composition of their diet may vary depending on the availability of food. In aquariums it is important to provide a diet rich in plant material, with a limited amount of animal protein to prevent excessive growth.
- Social Structure: The species lives in small groups or pairs, often with a harem structure (one male with several females). Males are territorial, especially during reproduction.
- Maximum Size: The maximum length is given as over 10 cm (SL), making it the largest member of the genus Labidochromis. However, in aquariums they can grow larger due to a diet too rich in animal protein.
Conclusion
Labidochromis gigas is a relatively peaceful, but territorial cichlid from Lake Malawi. Although they are not extremely difficult to keep, they do require a larger aquarium (at least 300 liters) with rocky furnishings. A varied diet, rich in plant material, is essential for their health. The harem structure (one male, several females) should be taken into account when setting up and choosing the number of fish. Beginners can keep this species, but thorough research on the specific needs is recommended to be successful.
A notable feature is the considerable geographical variation in color pattern. The relatively large body size compared to other Labidochromis species is another notable feature. The experience of keeping this species is generally positive, provided the specific requirements are met. A good understanding of their social structure and dietary needs is crucial for successful and enjoyable aquarium husbandry.
Author
John de Lange
Copyright images
Mark Thomas – Marks Fiskenarie
Pete Barnes
References
Burgess, W. E. (1975). Studies on the Family Cichlidae.
Lewis, D. S. C. (1982). A revision of the genus Labidochromis (Teleostei: Cichlidae) from Lake Malawi. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society.
