Order Perciformes Higher classification Thoracochromis | Phylum Chordata Scientific name Thoracochromis brauschi Rank Species | |
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Similar Thoracochromis, Cichlid, Coptodon snyderae, Otopharynx tetraspilus, Protomelas similis | ||
Blood throat cichlid thoracochromis brauschi fwa river
Thoracochromis brauschi is a species of cichlid endemic to the Fwa River in the Congo Basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo. This species can reach a length of 10.1 centimetres (4.0 in) TL.
Contents
- Blood throat cichlid thoracochromis brauschi fwa river
- Physical Features
- Thoracochromis brauschi
- Reproductive Cycle
- Behavior And Diet
- References
Physical Features
Thoracochromis brauschi have a distinct dorsal fin that is unique to its species. A wide black stripe can be observed starting at the front of its dorsal region and extending upward, which dissects the two halves of the dorsal region. A thin red bar follows the bottom edge of the wide black dorsal bar. The bottom half of the dorsal fin is yellow.
Thoracochromis brauschi can be divided into three subgroups based on gender and coloration. Female and subdominant males can be identified by their gray and olive-green coloration. Dominant males have more color and detail in their body coloration, theorized to be for attracting mates.
Dominant male Thoracochromis brauschi specimens have a white belly and a light brown coloration above the lateral line, as well as a black bar that crosses the eye on both sides. The area around the throat of a dominant male Thoracochromis brauschi is a vibrant blood-red color, which gives it the nickname “blood throat”. Its lips are a bright blue color, contrasting the red of its throat.
Thoracochromis brauschi
Reproductive Cycle
Dominant male Thoracochromis brauschi are polygamous and known to exhibit aggression toward male competitors. One dominant male specimen can reproduce with several female specimens each spawning season.
Thoracochromis brauschi is classified as a maternal mouthbrooder. This means that the eggs of the Thoracochromis brauschi are stored and hatched in the mouth of the mother, which protects the eggs and young fry from predators.
Thoracochromis brauschi spawn around twenty eggs at a time – a lower number of fry per spawning compared to other Cichlidae species in the region. Young female specimens tend to produce more eggs per spawn than older female specimens. Eggs gestate for 20 days at 27 degrees Celsius before hatching.
When this fish breeds in water with a high pH level, there is a chance for exclusively male fry to be spawned. It is currently unknown what causes this phenomenon.
Behavior And Diet
Thoracochromis brauschi live in small groups near the bottom of the Fwa River in the Congo Basin and are most active during the daytime. Groups of Thoracochromis brauschi usually occupy a specific area, claiming it as their territory. There is often one dominant male in the group and anywhere from three to five females or non-dominant males.
When threatened, Thoracochromis brauschi can be observed digging into the sand to hide from predators. Thoracochromis brauschi prefers freshwater with a pH of 7 to 8.5 and a temperature of 25 to 27 degrees Celsius. This species can live up to eight years.
Wild Thoracochromis brauschi tend to feed on smaller freshwater creatures but have also been observed grazing on Vallisneria growing in its habitat. Captive Thoracochromis brauschi can be fed any type of food, including dry flakes and pellets, fresh food, and frozen food. It is recommended to vary their diet to avoid nutritional deficiencies.