Tanganyika clown
Introduction
The Tanganyika clown (Eretmodus cyanostictus), also known as the striped goby cichlid, is a captivating freshwater fish native to Lake Tanganyika in Africa. Its unique appearance and intriguing behaviors make it a favorite among aquarists seeking something different for their tanks. While not overly demanding, the Tanganyika clown does require specific care to thrive, making it suitable for hobbyists with some experience in fishkeeping.
Care and Environment
Providing the right environment is crucial for the health and well-being of the Tanganyika clown. Here's a comprehensive guide to their care:
What is the minimum tank size for a Tanganyika clown?
A minimum tank size of 132 liters (35 gallons) is recommended for a single Tanganyika clown. This allows sufficient space for swimming and territory establishment.
What are the ideal water parameters for Tanganyika clowns?
Maintaining stable water conditions is essential. Aim for a pH range of 7.6 to 8.9, water hardness between 14 to 23°N (250 - 410.71 ppm), and a temperature range of 24°C to 27°C (75.2°F to 80.6°F).
How should the tank be set up for Tanganyika clowns?
Use a fine gravel or sandy substrate, as it's believed that some grains of sand kept in their stomach aid digestion. Incorporate plenty of rock structures to create caves and crevices, providing hiding spots and mimicking their natural rocky habitat.
What should I feed my Tanganyika clown?
These fish require a diet high in vegetable matter. Offer spirulina flakes and algae wafers as staples. Occasionally, provide live or frozen foods, but avoid brine shrimp, as they can cause digestive issues.
Are there any specific challenges in keeping Tanganyika clowns?
They can be territorial, especially towards their own species when not paired. It's advisable to keep them singly or in established pairs to minimize aggression.
Origin and Habitat
The Tanganyika clown is endemic to Lake Tanganyika, the world's second-largest freshwater lake, located in East Africa. They inhabit the southern part of the lake, from Kipili (Tanzania) to Moliro (Democratic Republic of the Congo). These fish are typically found in shallow, rocky areas with some sand between the rocks, where they graze on algae scraped from the rocks.
What type of environment do Tanganyika clowns prefer in the wild?
They thrive in turbulent, highly oxygenated shallow waters of the surf zone, often wedging themselves in rocks while grazing on algae.
Temperament and Compatibility
Understanding the behavior of Tanganyika clowns is vital for a harmonious aquarium:
Are Tanganyika clowns aggressive?
They are territorial towards their own species when not paired but are generally peaceful towards other fish species.
Can Tanganyika clowns be kept with other fish?
Yes, they can coexist with other Lake Tanganyika cichlids and species that occupy different swimming levels, such as Synodontis catfish and Lamprichthys.
Should Tanganyika clowns be kept in groups?
It's best to keep them singly or in established pairs to prevent intraspecific aggression.
Interesting Facts
Here are some intriguing aspects of the Tanganyika clown:
How do Tanganyika clowns reproduce?
They are bi-parental mouthbrooders, meaning both parents take turns incubating the eggs and holding the fry in their mouths.
Why are they called "clowns"?
Their comical hopping mode of swimming, due to a reduced swim bladder, along with their broad lips, has led to their popular name.
What is their typical lifespan?
With proper care, Tanganyika clowns can live between 5 to 8 years in captivity.
Sources
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:
Overview
Recommended Tank Size 52.8 Gallon (for pairs or small groups) |
Minimum Group Size 1 |
Minimum Tank Volume 34.9 Gallon |
Maximum Adult Length 3.5 inch |
Average Adult Length 3.3 inch |
Shoaling (6+ required) No |
Preferred Water Type Freshwater, alkaline, hard |
Temperature Range (°C) 24–27 |
pH Range 7.6–8.9 |
Water Hardness (dGH) 14–23 |
Typical Lifespan (years) 5 years |