NDUMBI RED TOP (Pseudotropheus perspicax "Ndumbi")

Distribution:

Pseudotropheus sp. "perspicax orange cap" is found at Ndumbi and Pombo Reef in Lake Malawi.

Size, Maturity, and Sexual Dimorphism:

Size: Males- 4 inches, Females- 3 inches
Maturity: 2.5 inches
Sexual Dimorphism: Males are larger than females, and attain a purple/blue color with an orange blaze while females remain brown.

Diet:

This fish is an herbivore in the wild and feeds in a similar way to Labidochromis, nipping away at algae on rocks. Feed a balanced diet in captivity, but include a high quality veggie flake or pellet to it.

Breeding:

Red Top ndumbi are very easy to breed. Male color will intensify during breeding and look spectaculr. At this point they become territorial. The fish breed in the typical manner for Pseudotropheus.

Females are excellent holders and will hold term for about 20-22 days. The fry are small and range from 15-35. They grow quickly and by two months are over an inch in length. Raising the fry poses no problems.

Conclusion:

Pseudotropheus sp. "perspicax orange cap" is a very pretty and popular fish. You may be able to find this fish at a pet shop and it is available in hobbyist circles. I highly recommend this fish to any Malawi cichlid keeper.

References:

• Konings, A. (2007) Malawi cichlids in their natural habitat. 4th ed., Cichlid Press, El Paso, Texas, 424 pp.