Description

The Albino Malawi Eye-Biter (Dimidiochromis compressiceps), a striking albino variant of the Malawi Eye-Biter, is famous (or infamous) for its unique predatory behavior. Its name derives from its tendency to bite or consume the eyes of smaller fish before consuming them tail-first. Native to the entire expanse of Lake Malawi, this large predatory cichlid is a fascinating addition to the right aquarium but is unsuitable for community tanks with smaller or slow-moving fish.

Quick Facts

• Common Names: Albino Malawi Eye-Biter, Albino Compressiceps Cichlid
• Scientific Name: Dimidiochromis compressiceps
• Size: Up to 10–11 inches (25–28 cm)
• Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care
• Temperament: Highly predatory and semi-aggressive
• Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons (125 gallons preferred for adults)

Tank Setup and Care

• Tank Size: While 70 gallons is the absolute minimum, a larger tank (125 gallons or more) is recommended for adult fish to provide ample space and reduce territorial aggression.
• Aquascape:
  • Substrate: Sandy substrate, mimicking their natural habitat.
  • Decor: Smooth rock piles or caves for shelter and territory definition.
  • Vegetation: Include sturdy live plants or artificial vegetation for hiding and hunting simulation.
  • Swimming Space: Open areas for active swimming are essential.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 79–82°F (26–28°C)
  • pH: 7.6–8.6 (alkaline water typical of Lake Malawi)
  • Hardness: Moderate to hard
• Water Flow: Gentle or indirect flow, as this species thrives in calmer shoreline waters.
• Maintenance: Regular water changes (25–30% weekly) and powerful filtration are critical to manage bioload and maintain pristine water quality.

Diet and Feeding

• Natural Diet: Small fish hunted in shoreline vegetation.
• In Captivity:
  • Start with live fish to transition them into eating non-live foods.
  • Offer a variety of fresh or frozen meaty foods such as silversides, lance fish, mussels, prawns, and cockles.
  • High-quality carnivorous pellets or frozen preparations for African cichlids are excellent long-term dietary staples.
  • Feed smaller, frequent meals (2–3 times daily) and monitor growth to avoid overfeeding.

Tank Mates

The Albino Malawi Eye-Biter is highly predatory and should be housed with tank mates that are large enough (6+ inches) to avoid being viewed as prey.

• Recommended Tank Mates:
  • Other large, robust African cichlids like Haps or Peacock Cichlids (Aulonocara species).
  • Non-cichlid species that are similarly sized and fast-moving.
• Avoid:
  • Small fish that can fit in their mouth.
  • Aggressive Mbuna species, which can provoke unnecessary territorial disputes.

Breeding

Albino Malawi Eye-Biters can be bred in captivity with adequate preparation:

• Spawning Behavior: Maternal mouthbrooders. Females lay eggs on flat surfaces, which are then fertilized and incubated in the female’s mouth.
• Breeding Setup:
  • pH: 7.8–8.6
  • Temperature: 80–82°F (27–28°C)
  • Tank space with ample hiding spots to reduce aggression.

Fry Care: Feed newly hatched fry with baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flake foods. Note that the fry may grow slowly initially but will eventually develop into aggressive predators.

Behavior and Temperament

• Aggression Level: Semi-aggressive, but intensely predatory toward smaller tank mates.
• Territoriality: Males may display heightened aggression, particularly during breeding periods.

Additional Notes

The Albino Malawi Eye-Biter’s striking appearance and fascinating predatory habits make it an excellent choice for advanced hobbyists with suitable tank setups. Its unique hunting behavior and large size add drama to any aquarium, but care must be taken to house it with appropriate tank mates and maintain stable water conditions.