First recorded in 1908 by Boulenger, the Venustus Cichlid was originally classified as Haplochromis Venustus. Eighty years later, it was reclassified to its current name, Nimbochromis Venustus. Other commonly used names include Giraffe Hap, Giraffe Haplochromis, Giraffe Cichlid, Venustus Hap and Venustus Cichlid.

These freshwater cichlids originate from Lake Malombe and the upper regions of Shire River in Lake Malawi. As a member of the vast and diverse haplochromine species, the Venustus Cichlid is one of the most populous fish in East Africa. Adult cichlids are usually found gliding over sandy substrates in deep waters of 49 to 64 feet, often burying themselves in the sand and lying still to surprise and ambush smaller fish and invertebrates. Juveniles prefer staying near rock formations in shallow waters.

Despite a possible minor decline in the southern portion of Lake Malawi, the Venustus Cichlid still thrives in its native waters and faces no significant threats to their population, earning the status of Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List.

Size and Appearance

The Giraffe Cichlid is among the bigger African cichlids. They have a healthy growth rate, reaching a full size of 10 inches. Despite this size, they are not usually aggressive, but prefer to coexist peacefully with other fish species unless provoked.

This fish displays a characteristic elongated cichlid body shape, huge jaw, and spinous dorsal, anal, pectoral, and pelvic fins used to deter potential threats. African cichlids are widely admired for their vibrant colors, unique combinations, and striking patterns, and the Venustus Cichlid is no exception.

Juveniles embody an enchanting silver body interspersed with dark spots and a yellow streak running along their belly, anal fin, and tail. As they mature, their colors intensify, with males adopting a golden body blotched with brown spots that mimic a giraffe’s coat, earning them various ‘giraffe’ monikers.

Mature males also develop a dazzling blue face but temporarily lose their beautiful pattern when spawning. After a successful courtship, they regain their previous appearance. Females have a beige or ecru color instead of gold and showcase a darker, more distinct giraffe pattern.

Common among 80% of fish species, females are usually larger than males. However, Giraffe Cichlid males are 30-40% larger. Both sexes are attractive, making a splendid spectacle in a prominent aquarium display.

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A spacious tank is crucial for these active, large fish. Regular water change each week will help maintain the water quality and stimulate their reproductive instincts. The most suitable substrate for these types of fish is a 2-inch bed of pea gravel, which is smooth enough not to harm your fish but can anchor plants and decorations and works remarkably well with undergravel filters.

Decorative items such as plants and rock formations not only provide natural hiding and spawning spots but also reduce aggression by breaking lines of sight. Remember, these hefty fish are powerful enough to dislodge tank decor. Therefore, ensure any rocks are placed at the bottom, directly on the tank and not on the substrate. Avoid driftwood, as it can lower the pH and alkalinity levels.

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A pair of Giraffe Cichlids

Tank Mates

Though Venustus cichlids are aggressive, particularly mature males towards others of their species, they generally coexist peacefully with other species as long as they’re not small enough to be seen as food. Ideal tank mates for your Venustus cichlid include: 

• Victorian Haps
• Malawi Haps
• Malawi Peacocks
• Synodontis
• Aulonocara baenschi
• Sunshine/Yellow Benga
• Nimbochromis livingstonii
• Red Empress

They require a high-protein diet, including a variety of live brine shrimp, bloodworms, earthworms, Mysis shrimp, minnows, and ghost shrimp. Eventually, you can get them accustomed to eating frozen versions of these foods or high-quality, vitamin-enriched cichlid pellets as a staple food.

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Breeding

Venustus cichlid is a polygamous species. To increase breeding prospects, a harem of at least three females to one male is advisable. The gender ratio in captive breeding seems to inspire polygamous fish into mating.

Males are easily identifiable when ready to mate, temporarily losing their spots and appearing completely yellow, contrasting with their blue faces. After successful breeding, they regain their spotted look. Although environmental factors play a role, ultimately, breeding is left to nature. Providing the appropriate diet and maintaining stable water chemistry can help facilitate this process.

Unique to Venustus cichlid, and contrary to livebearers, these fish employ external fertilization. A female lays her eggs and collects them in her mouth, where fertilization happens after a courting male has released his sperm. She then incubates the fertilized eggs for about three weeks. After breeding, the male Venustus cichlid should be removed from the breeding space to protect the offspring, as he might eat them.

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