[CichlidAdmin]

	Scientific Name: Haplochromis sp. "#44" thickskin
	Pronunciation: h p-l -kr -m s
	Common Name(s): Haplochromis Obliquidens
	Geo. Origin: North and eastern shorelines of Lake Victoria
	Habitat: Shallow sandy habitat near shore
	Diet: Carnivore
	Gender Differences: Dimorphic
	Breeding: Maternal Mouthbrooder
	Temperament: Aggressive
	Conspecific Temperament: Highly Aggressive
	Maximum Size: 5"
	Temperature: 74-78°F
	pH: 7.2-8.6
	Water Hardness: Hard
	Difficulty: 3

Images:

Male in breeding dress Subdominant male Female Subadult male Adult male Spawning pair Subadult male XL male Male displaying ​

Photo Credit: Boris Gindin

Articles:

Species Article

Comments:

This Victorian cichlid is commonly and incorrectly labeled Haplochromis obliquidens by many breeders and fish stores. Haplochromis sp. "thickskin" (which is sometimes referred to as Astatotilapia sp. "red tail" or Haplochromis sp. #44) is one of the most common Victorian cichlids available in the hobby. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most aggressive and it also seems to easily hybridize with almost any other Victorian in the tank. In the wild, Haplochromis sp. #44 "thickskin" consumes aquatic insect larvae. Supplement their diet with mosquito larvae, brine shrimp, cyclops, and or daphnia.