Champsochromis

The genus Champsochromis has only two species:

• Champsochromis caeruleus
• Champsochromis spilorhynchus

The genus name Champsochromis can be divided into two parts. Champos comes from Greek and means ‘crocodile’. The reference is not explained in the description in the first description. Perhaps it refers to the large conical teeth of some species that were originally part of this genus, such as Rhamphochromis ferox. The second part of the name is Chromis. This common word goes back to the time of Aristotle and is derived from chroemo which means ‘neigh’ and refers to a drum (Sciaenidae) and its ability to make sound. Later the use of this word was expanded to include Cichlids, Damselfish, Dottybacks and Wrasses. the word ‘Chromis’ is often used in a combination for African Cichlids.

Origin

Both species are endemic to Lake Malawi. They both occur in almost the entire lake.

Dieet

Both species are piscivores. They hunt for fish in open water. In the aquarium they need solid food such as fish, earthworms, etc.