Trematochromis benthicola
Trematochromis benthicola was first described by Matthes in 1962. This fish belongs to the family Cichlidae. The genus Trematochromis is monotypic, meaning that it contains only one species. The genus name “Trematochromis” comes from the Greek “trematos” (hole) and “chromis” (fish), possibly referring to the characteristic body structure.
Synonyms: Haplochromis benthicola, Ctenochromis benthicola, Trematochromis schreyeni.
Description
Appearance: Trematochromis benthicola has a deep and moderately compressed body. The color of this species is brown-gray on the flank. They have vertical dark brown bands that are best visible on the back; they often fade away on the flank. The scales on the flank have a blue iridescent sheen. The fins are provided with scales at the base. The lips and the area around them are bluish. The maximum length is about 21.5 centimeters.
Differences between males and females: No significant sexual dimorphism was observed in the morphometric and meristic characters.
Behavior and temperament: This species is very aggressive towards conspecifics and can also be aggressive towards other species. They live solitary or in small groups and are bottom dwellers.
Life expectancy: There is no specific information on life expectancy in the wild or in aquariums.
Biotope
Trematochromis benthicola occurs in the northern part of Lake Tanganyika, which stretches across Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Tanzania. They live in a lake, and their natural habitat consists of the hidden corners of caves in shallow water. The bottom consists mainly of rocks. There are no specific natural enemies mentioned, but they are hunters themselves. The climate is tropical without specific seasonal floods or droughts.
Diet
In the wild: Trematochromis benthicola feeds on smaller fish and various invertebrates.
In the aquarium: It is advisable to feed them a diet of meaty foods, such as small fish and invertebrates.
The Aquarium
Size: A minimum 350-liter aquarium is recommended. For multiple pairs, a larger aquarium is needed.
Decoration: The aquarium should contain plenty of rocks to provide hiding places. Use sand as a substrate.
Water parameters: The pH should be between 7.5 and 9.0, with a temperature of 22°C to 27°C.
Compatibility: They can live with larger and more robust Tanganyika cichlids.
Breeding aquarium and conditioning
There is no specific information on breeding Trematochromis benthicola in aquariums. They are mouthbrooders, but there are no documented cases of captive breeding.
Particularities
Trematochromis benthicola is a monotypic genus and has a unique infraorbital structure with large openings. They are endemic to Lake Tanganyika.
Conclusion
Trematochromis benthicola is a challenging species to keep due to its aggressive nature and specific habitat requirements. It is suitable for experienced aquarists who are familiar with Tanganyika cichlids. Their unique behavior and structure make them fascinating, but they require careful planning and setting up of their environment.
Author
John de Lange
Copyright images
Suephoto.com (original website no longer availabel)
