Many aquarium fish lovers dream of exotic beauties. Recently, cichlids are gaining more and more popularity. These are miniature predatory fish, which are distinguished by longevity and incredible dexterity. Among the wide variety of colors, the breeding species of the cichlid “snow prince” (“snowflake”) stands out majestically.
Description and habitat
Handsome is an albino form of the Pseudotrophaeus (Sokolof). He is known for his blinding whiteness, and his eyes have a burning red color. Such a fish will undoubtedly decorate any aquarium. The water inhabitant has a white color with a bluish tint. A similar coloring is inherent in females and males, only the fry are distinguished by a darker tone. Also, some individuals have a black edging on the fins.
Under natural conditions, the snowflake cichlid lives in Lake Malawi (East Africa). Fish hides from large predatory relatives in dense thickets. Determining the gender of the cichlid “snow prince” is not difficult. Males are larger than females. The first reaches a length of 12 cm, while the size of the "girls" does not exceed 9 cm. In addition, males have long ventral, dorsal and anal fins.
Another feature of males is as follows: the anal fins are decorated with a large number of yellowish spots-eyes. In females, they are noticeable in a minimal amount.
Character
Despite the fact that cichlids are predatory inhabitants of the depths, the white prince is a rather peaceful fish. He easily gets along with other good-natured cichlids. Another difference between a male and a female is his belligerent mood. The male is very jealous of the presence of another male of his own species in the "home". The best option is to have one “boy” and two “girls” in one aquarium. Snow-white “snowflakes” look spectacular against a dark background and are combined with fish of bright colors.
The White Prince guards his territory and does not let strangers into the hole. Cichlids prefer to be at the bottom of the aquarium, rising to the surface only for food.
Content Features
Cichlids are unpretentious and, with a competent approach, live for 6–8 years. The following living conditions are important for the “Snow Prince”:
- volumetric aquarium (not less than 150 liters);
- water temperature - 24–27 degrees;
- stiffness dH - 8–20;
- acidity pH - up to 8.6;
- regular fluid filtration;
- weekly change of at least 50 liters of fresh water.
Also snow-white fish powerful aeration is important. The bottom of the aquarium can be decorated with tall buildings made of stones, in which fish can swim. As a soil, a mixture of gravel with shell rock is perfect. If possible, the aquarium is planted with plants with large hard leaves.
The albino cichlidam is suitable for living plant combination feed. Some individuals like to feast on lettuce leaves, while others will gladly accept a piece of raw meat from the owner. Also, "snowflakes" will not give up:
- slices of raw pumpkin;
- nettle leaves;
- dandelions;
- ice cream seafood.
Before use, these products must be boiled for several minutes in boiling water. Dry fodder is also suitable for snow-white fish. Spirulina (seaweed) is present in its composition.
For feeding topical bushes are hygrophilous and vallisneria, which are planted in the aquarium. Such plants are very fond of cichlids.
Breeding
The cichlid “snow prince” reaches sexual maturity at 10-12 months. Fish spawn in a common aquarium. Experts advise resettling a couple ready for breeding in another “dwelling”. On average, the female spawns about 30–90 eggs.
“Mommy” bears eggs in her mouth for 2-3 weeks and during this period practically refuses food. Malkov is not excommunicated from parents. They are quite large and can independently feed on small feeds (daphnia, artemia).
About the rules for keeping the snow prince cichlids, see the next video.
