Description

The Pundamilia nyererei, commonly known as the Nyererei Cichlid, is a stunning and vibrant cichlid species native to Lake Victoria in East Africa. Its bold coloration and intriguing behavior make it a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts, especially those interested in African cichlids.

Quick Facts

• Common Name: Nyererei Cichlid
• Scientific Name: Pundamilia nyererei
• Natural Range: Lake Victoria, East Africa
• Size: Males up to 4 inches (10 cm); females slightly smaller
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial during breeding
• Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons (151 liters)

Appearance

• Males:
  • Bright and vibrant base colors in shades of red, orange, or yellow.
  • Iridescent blue or purple highlights across the body and scales.
  • Fins often feature striking patterns, enhancing their visual appeal.
• Females:
  • Subtle coloration in shades of brown or gray, with minimal patterns.
  • Serve as a contrast to the flamboyant males.

This striking dimorphism makes them a captivating presence in any aquarium.

Behavior and Compatibility

• General Behavior:
  • Generally peaceful but can display territorial aggression, especially males during spawning.
  • Require visual barriers and hiding spots to minimize aggression and establish territories.
• Compatibility:
  • Suitable tankmates include other similarly sized, peaceful African cichlids or community fish that can tolerate similar water conditions.
  • Avoid housing them with overly aggressive species or those small enough to be seen as prey.

Tank Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 40 gallons for a small group, with larger tanks recommended for community setups.
• Substrate: Fine sand to mimic their natural habitat and encourage digging behavior.
• Décor:
  • Rocks, caves, and driftwood to provide hiding spots and breeding territories.
  • Plants such as Vallisneria or Anubias can be added, though they may nibble on softer vegetation.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F–82°F (24°C–28°C)
  • pH: 7.8–8.6
  • Water Hardness: Medium to hard
  • Maintain stable water conditions with regular water changes and efficient filtration.

Diet and Feeding

• Diet in Nature: Primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and plant material.
• Captive Diet:
  • High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes with vegetable content.
  • Supplement with fresh or blanched vegetables (e.g., spirulina flakes, lettuce, peas).
  • Occasional treats of live or frozen foods like Artemia (brine shrimp) or daphnia for variety.
• Feeding Frequency: Offer small portions 2–3 times daily to support health and enhance coloration.

Breeding

• Reproductive Behavior: Maternal mouthbrooders.
• Breeding Setup:
  • Provide flat rocks or caves as spawning sites.
  • Maintain a ratio of one male to several females to distribute breeding attention and reduce stress.
• Spawning Process:
  • Females lay eggs, scoop them into their mouths, and are fertilized by the male.
  • Females incubate eggs in their mouths for 2–4 weeks, depending on conditions.
  • Fry are released as free swimmers and can be left in the tank with adequate hiding spots or moved to a separate grow-out tank.
• Fry Care:
  • Feed newly hatched fry with finely crushed flake food or Artemia nauplii.

Special Considerations

1. Aggression Management: Males can become territorial, particularly during breeding, so provide adequate space and hiding spots.
2. Preserving Water Quality: Sensitive to poor water conditions, requiring consistent maintenance and regular water changes.
3. Preventing Hybridization: Avoid mixing with other closely related Pundamilia species to maintain genetic purity.

Conclusion

The Pundamilia nyererei is a visually stunning cichlid that offers a balance of beauty, fascinating behavior, and manageable care requirements. With its vibrant colors and social dynamics, it can become the centerpiece of any African cichlid aquarium. By creating a well-maintained, thoughtfully designed environment and meeting its dietary and social needs, aquarists can enjoy the captivating allure of this exceptional species.