Aquarist Species:  Thoracochromis pharyngalis

Aquarist: eddiekay

Species Profile: Thoracochromis pharyngalis

Species Photo by: Kim Pedersen

Description:   An African cichlid endemic to Lakes Edward and George, and the Kazinga Channel which flows between the two lakes. Unique in that this species played an important role in the adaptive radiation of Victorian cichlids. A CARES vulnerable species.

Category:   Cichlids

Global Region:   Africa

Distribution:   Lake Edward and Lake George

CARES Status:   Vulnerable

Aquarist Notes

Photo of aquarist's species:

Collection Point:   Kazinga Channel

Genetic Line:   Aquarium Strain

Year Acquired:   2024

A fairly undemanding fish, unlike other Thoracochromis species I've kept, in my experience, I would call this an extremely peaceful Thoracochromis, haven't seen any torn fins, missing scales, etc. Males and females can be difficult to ID, at least for me! If I had the ability to post more than one picture I would show the how similar in appearance they are, I hope my photo of a pair spawning demonstrates that. Also, in my experience, the females are somewhat subtle in exhibiting signs of holding, at least in comparison to other mouth brooders.

Spawning notes:

Species Spawned:   Yes

Have Reared Fry?   Yes

Young fish available?   Yes