Mdoka White Lips (Placidochromis Phenochilus Mdoka)

Max Size:  8"

Description:

The Mdoka White Lips (Placidochromis Phenochilus Mdoka) is a beautiful and popular cichlid fish that is native to Lake Malawi in Africa. It is known for its striking coloration of bright blue body and white lips. Males are larger and more colorful than females, with males growing up to 7 inches in length and females up to 6 inches.

Aquarium Size and Conditions:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 50 gallons is recommended, with larger tanks being more suitable.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: Between 75-82°F (24-28°C).
  • pH: 7.8-8.6.
  • Hardness: 10-20 dH.
  • Ammonia and Nitrite: 0 ppm.
  • Nitrate: Less than 20 ppm.
• Water Changes: Regular water changes of 20-30% should be performed weekly.

Feeding Recommendations:

Mdoka White Lips cichlids are omnivores. Their diet should comprise high-quality flake food, pellets, and a mix of frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and mysis shrimp. It's advisable to feed them multiple small meals throughout the day.

Additional Notes:

• Behavior: Mdoka White Lips cichlids are generally peaceful fish, but they can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards their own kind. It's recommended to house them in a species-specific tank or with other Malawi cichlids of similar size and temperament. Providing ample hiding spots in the form of caves is essential.
• Aquarium Setup: A well-filtered aquarium is crucial to maintain water quality. Regular water testing is advised to ensure parameters remain within the recommended range. Offering a varied diet ensures the fish receive all necessary nutrients. Observing the fish for any signs of illness or stress is essential for their well-being.

Compatibility:

Mdoka White Lips cichlids can be kept with other Malawi cichlids of similar size and temperament. However, it is important to avoid keeping them with Mbuna cichlids, as these fish are more aggressive. Other good tank mates for Mdoka White Lips cichlids include Synodontis catfish and other non-cichlid fish from Lake Malawi.