Livingston's Cichlid (Nimbochromis livingstonii) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 125 gallons and 75-82°F. A mottled Lake Malawi predator known for lying on its side as if dead, then striking any small fish that comes to investigate. It needs a large tank with hard, alkaline water and only large, robust tankmates.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Nimbochromis livingstonii |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Malawi, East Africa |
| Adult size | 8-10 in |
| Minimum tank | 125 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 7.6-8.6 |
| Temperament | Aggressive predator |
| Social behavior | Solitary or one male with several females |
| Swim level | Mid to bottom |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: cichlid pellets, frozen fish and shrimp, occasional live food |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Plan for a 125 gallon or larger tank.
- Do not keep with small fish or fry; it will eat them.
- Use Malawi-type hard, alkaline water and plenty of rock cover.
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