Malawi Eye-Biter (Dimidiochromis compressiceps) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 125 gallons and 76-82°F. A long, flattened Lake Malawi predator that often lies on its side to look like a dead leaf, then strikes. Despite its nickname it does not bite eyes, but it will eat any tankmate small enough to swallow, so it is a species for a large tank with big Malawi tankmates.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Dimidiochromis compressiceps |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Malawi, Africa |
| Adult size | 10 in |
| Minimum tank | 125 gallons |
| Temperature | 76-82°F |
| pH | 7.5-8.6 |
| Temperament | Ambush predator that eats fish that fit in its mouth |
| Social behavior | Solitary or a pair in a very large tank |
| Swim level | Mid |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: large pellets, frozen fish and shrimp, some live foods |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Do not keep with small fish or fry.
- Use hard, alkaline water and rock caves.
- Provide a wide, long tank; males are often aggressive to each other.
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