Venustus Cichlid

Nimbochromis venustus

Minimum Tank Size

125+ gal

Temperature

76–82°F

PH

7.6–8.6

Adult Size

10–12 in

Temperament 

Large predatory semi-aggressive cichlid

Care Difficulty

Advanced

Diet & Feeding

Offer a high-quality species-appropriate staple plus supplemental foods suited to the fish's natural feeding strategy. Avoid overfeeding and remove uneaten food.

Care Instructions

Maintain stable 76–82°F water and appropriate chemistry. Size the aquarium for adult fish, territorial behavior, swimming room, and biological load.

Flow & Filtration

Use mature biological filtration with good oxygenation and species-appropriate flow. Ammonia and nitrite should remain at zero; manage nitrate with regular maintenance.

Planted Tank Suitability

Plant compatibility depends on digging, grazing, hardness requirements, and aggression. Use hardy attached plants or protected planting where appropriate.

Tank Mate Compatibility

Good Tank Mates
  • Large Haps
  • Large Peacocks

Use Caution 
  • Large Mbuna

Avoid
  • Small Malawi Fish
  • Community Fish

Compatibility Notes

Large adult size and predatory behavior demand substantial tank volume and robust companions.

Breeding Notes

Breeding strategy is species-specific. Provide suitable spawning sites and a dedicated fry plan when breeding is intended.