Snow White
The Snow White Cichlid (Pseudotropheus socolofi “Albino”) is the albino version of the Blue Pindani which is endimic to Lake Malawi. It occurs along the coast of Mozambique, between Cobue and Tumbi point, although it has been introduced elsewhere. It inhabits relatively shallow water in the intermediate zone where the rocky shoreline gives way to sandy substrates. Live robust plants can be used as this fish will not usually bother them. Leave open swimming areas.
The Snow White Cichlid will thrive in an aquarium with a sandy substrate and plenty of refuge such as clay pots, driftwood, and rock formations. It is an excellent candidate for the planted aquarium, but it also needs a fair amount of open space. This cichlid is generally compatible with other peaceful fish as long as it has plenty of space. Territoriality is typically at its peak during spawning. Dwarf shrimp and other small, delicate invertebrates should not be kept with the The Snow White Cichlid, but more durable, larger shrimp and snails could possibly make good tank mates in a large enough aquarium. If spawning is desired, tank mates of other species should be kept to a minimum or avoided altogether.
The Snow White Cichlid is among the most peaceful of Pseudotropheus species. Although territorial, this fish does well with peaceful mbunas and Peacocks.
They will readily eat most cichlid pellets, flake and frozen foods. Sexual differences: Males have three to four, distinct egg-spots on the anal fin and have slightly longer pelvic fins.
Feeding is simple for the unfussy the Snow White Cichlid. High-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods will all be readily accepted. Quality and variety are the keys to a diet that will ensure that this fish maintains optimal health and coloration.
What We Like About This Fish:
- Beautiful neon blue coloration across most of the body in both males and females
- Hardy with plenty of personality
- Possible to breed in the aquarium
- Compatible with many other species in a spacious tank
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:
- Temperature: 78.8° - 86° F (26° - 30° C), although 82°+ F (28°+ C) is optimal
- pH: Alkaline 7.5 – 8.5
- KH: 0 - 10 KH
- Minimum tank size: 20-30 gallons for a small group, but a larger aquarium should be used for a community of several species
CARE GUIDELINES:
- Diet: Carnivorous. A variety of high-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods is necessary for optimal health and coloration.
- Social behaviour: Congregates loosely in groups. Males can be territorial when attempting to spawn and females are very protective of their eggs during spawning.