Giraffe Cichlid (Nimbochromis venustus) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 125 gallons and 76-82°F. A big Malawi predator with a giraffe-like pattern that lies still on its side to ambush small fish. Juveniles look harmless in the store, but adults reach about ten inches and eat any fish small enough to swallow.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Nimbochromis venustus |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Malawi, East Africa |
| Adult size | 10 in |
| Minimum tank | 125 gallons |
| Temperature | 76-82°F |
| pH | 7.5-8.6 |
| Temperament | Predatory ambush hunter, aggressive to small fish |
| Social behavior | Solitary male with females in a very large tank |
| Swim level | Mid to bottom |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: large cichlid pellets, frozen fish and shrimp |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Plan for a tank of 125 gallons or larger before buying.
- Do not mix with small tankmates.
- Choose large, sturdy Malawi tankmates.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi