The following is a preview of the six interesting articles on diverse areas of the cichlid world that appear in this issue:
Paul Loiselle leads off with a comprehensive piece on three Costa Rican cichlid species in which he eloquently highlights their diversity and conservation challenges. With his own unique style, Loiselle explores the behavioral intricacies and environmental vulnerabilities of Amatitlania septemfasciata, A. myrnae, and A. sajica, emphasizing their appeal in the aquarium hobby and their precarious status in the wild. His work serves as a call to action for responsible stewardship and underscores the significance of captive breeding programs.
Wolfgang Staeck details the unique environmental and reproductive characteristics of the genus Pterophyllum, the angelfishes. In addition to their adaptation to diverse water conditions in the Amazon basin, he emphasizes the importance of vertical structures in their habitats. The article also explains their distinctive spawning behaviors during the high-water season, when rivers flood adjacent forests, and how these behaviors differ from other South American cichlids.
Martin Geerts comments on the challenges in identifying species within the genus Hemichromis. Despite historical and morphological studies, distinguishing between the suggested four species remains elusive without precise geographical data or molecular analyses. Geerts argues for simplified taxonomy, aligning with earlier views that Hemichromis, may consist of just one species. He emphasizes the importance of historical data and respects the efforts of early naturalists who explored and collected under very challenging conditions in West Africa.
Michel Keijman explores the reclassification of West and Central African cichlids, revealing that the cichlids previously identified as Hemichromis elongatus from Cameroon are actually a newly described species now known as Hemichromis camerounensis. The article details the author’s experiences collecting and raising this attractive species, describing its natural habitat, aquarium care, spawning behavior, and feeding practices. Keijman notes its striking coloration, adaptability, and relatively moderate aggression as compared to other cichlids in the genus.
Izak Louw discusses Gephyrochromis lawsi, a not-often-seen Malawi cichlid known for its peaceful nature and vibrant colors. In his article, you will discover its unique breeding habits, remarkable adaptability, and intricate dental structure, and learn about the challenges and rewards of keeping this species in captivity. Louw’s insights provide a detailed look into the ecological and genetic factors that make G. lawsi a captivating and valuable addition to your Lake Malawi collection.
Ad Konings examines the genus Callochromis, a group of sand-dwelling cichlid species native to Lake Tanganyika that build distinctive sand castle spawning sites to attract females. He discusses the unique breeding behaviors among the species as well as geographical variations. Konings highlights their ecological diversity and adaptive strategies, reflecting evolutionary significance in their habitats and behaviors.
In our new and evolving Tailfin section, Michel Keijman tells us about a newly discovered small cichlid that represents a potentially new genus. This fish has now been imported from the Congo to Germany. Keijman reports that it is quite attractive and non-aggressive and that it can thrive in smaller aquariums. Read about its current status in the hobby in this short spotlight.
As we wrap up this issue, we encourage you to spread the word about Cichlid News Magazine and help us grow our community of passionate readers. Also, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to connect with fellow hobbyists and cichlid experts at the 30th Anniversary of the Ohio Cichlid Association’s Extravaganza in Strongsville, Ohio, from November 22–24 this year. This feature-packed weekend will feature fascinating talks by Cichlid News authors, Ad Konings, Adrian Indermaur, Daniel Konn-Vetterlein, and Rusty Wessel. A key offering is a side trip to the amazing Ohio Fish Rescue owned and operated by YouTube celebrity, Bigrich Price—also the late-night speaker on Friday. I almost forgot to mention that there will be a complimentary copy of Cichlid News Magazine in the registration goodie bags! Working together, we can make a difference in the cichlid hobby and community!
Until next time,
