why_spyder: I'll be starting out with an article, and when it is over - we'll go to a Q & A.

why_spyder: What are Cynotilapia? Cynotilapia (pronounced SIGH-no-TILAPIA) is a genus of mbuna in Lake Malawi that are known for their unique, unicuspid teeth. The Latin name Cynotilapia literally breaks down to "dog-tilapia" in reference to their teeth. Despite the aggressive look of these mbuna, they are predominantly plankton feeders - harvesting zoo- and phytoplankton from the open water. However, it is thought the the shape of teeth may in fact be designed for defense, rather than feeding technique.

why_spyder: In the wild, Cynotilapia are found in the deep rocky, intermediate, and even the sediment-rich habitats - where the rocky shoreline meets the open sands of the lake. Females and subdominant males form large schools and spend a lot their time foraging in the open water. Dominant males will hold up in or around large dark caves, boulders, and in some cases, around small clusters of rocks amongst the sand.

why_spyder: Cynotilapia show a high degree of variation amongst many species - the C. sp. "Lion" and C. sp. "Mbamba" groups are good examples. At Lion's Cove, male C. sp. "Lion" range from a golden yellow (with little purple) to almost all purple (with little golden yellow) - with intermediate consistencies appearing as well. In some populations of C. sp. "Mbamba" there is polychromatism (variance in coloration) in the dorsal fins - displaying a range of coloration between yellow and white.

why_spyder: At many locations, there is more than one species of Cynotilapia to be found. For example, at Nkhata Bay there is three species found there: C. sp. "Mbamba", C. afra, and C. axelrodi. All can be found there, but they all inhabit different niches in the biotope.

why_spyder: There are two described and several undescribed species of Cynotilapia. Cynotilapia afra is the first described species (C. axelrodi being the other), and is by far the largest group of this genus. This species has a widespread distribution covering much of the lake - C. afra comes in a wide variety of color combinations which make them so appealing. Cynotilapia afra are mostly black-barred on a blue-body with slight coloration differences between locations.

why_spyder: At Cobwe, Mozambique - a very popular species of C. afra is found that goes by the trade name "Orangeback Cobue" or simply "Afra Cobue". This species is well known for the brilliant yellow/orange-coloration that runs from head to tail along the upper half of the body.

why_spyder: Cynotilapia afra Lupingu, male and females

why_spyder: A second major group is C. sp. "Lion". This group differs from C. afra in two ways. The first noticeable difference is the body shape - C. sp. "Lion" are more elongate then most of the C. afra species. Secondly, C. sp. "Lion" are characterized by the male behavior. Males will form a territory around a singular rock or small group of rocks and actually hover above their domain approximately 4"-6". Cynotilapia sp. "Lion" are only found in the northern half of Lake Malawi.

why_spyder: Cynotilapia sp. "Lion" Lion's Cove, male

why_spyder: Cynotilapia sp. "Mbamba" is the third major group found in Lake Malawi. Like the previous group, C. sp. "Mbamba" has a couple unique features that set them apart from the others. The bodies of this group are more laterally compressed, and the overall coloration of the bodies are dark. Males prefer the dark regions of the biotope - usually found in the entrance of large, dark caves.

why_spyder: At a couple of the geographical locations, males exhibit a streak of color on their forehead that runs up into the dorsal fin. C. sp. "Mbamba" are found predominately in the northern half of the lake.

why_spyder: Cynotilapia sp. "Mbamba" Mphanga Rocks, male and female (courtesy of Steve Suchon)

why_spyder: Both the C. sp. "Lion" and C. sp. "Mbamba" groups are not officially described, so members of each group (and the C. afra group for that matter) may be moved around in the future as further inspection occurs. An addition, the whole lake has not been fully explored - the southeastern part of the lake has rougher, less clear water that makes exploring difficult (Larry Johnson, pers. comm.).

why_spyder: A few other species that still need to be described are C. sp. "Hara", C. sp. "Maleri", C. sp. "Ndumbi", C. sp. "Black Dorsal", and C. sp. "Black Eastern".

why_spyder: How big do these get?Most of the Cynotilapia species only grow to about 4" at full maturity. Cynotilapia sp. "Hara" and C. sp. "Chinyankwazi" are two species that have been known to grow larger than 4" - reaching 5". This smaller size allows for a slightly smaller tank size to be used if necessary - even though bigger tanks still work better.

why_spyder: What is their temperament? From my experience, Cynotilapia run middle of the road as far as aggression - both within their species and towards other species. As with every genus, there are a few species that are known for being more or less aggressive. Cynotilapia sp. "Hara" is a bit more aggressive, as well as C. sp. "Lion" Mara Rocks (so I've heard).

why_spyder: On the other end of the aggression scale, C. afra Cobwe is more docile and can be more easily intimidated by robust species of cichlid. Species like C. sp. "Mbamba" aren't pushovers but can be quite shy until they find a niche within a community.

why_spyder: What kind of tank inhabitants will work with Cynotilapia? Tank mates will depend on many factors: the temperament of the Cynotilapia involved, tank size, and number of fish to be housed to name a few. Generally speaking, Cynotilapia will work well with most mbuna - provided they aren't of similar color pattern.

why_spyder: It is always recommended that you consult others before mixing species if you don't want to risk the loss of fish. On a personal note, I have had very good results so far with mixing Cynotilapia species with all kinds of mbuna - and even with some Aulonocara and Copadichromis species.

why_spyder: Is there a minimum tank size? Assuming you are doing a species-only tank, I recommend at least a 3' tank. Even though they don't grow as large as many other mbuna - males still establish territories like their bigger counterparts. Male Cynotilapia can be quite boisterous around spawning time and can harass females/subdominant males - and these "victims" will need room to escape.

why_spyder: How hard are Cynotilapia to come by? Nowadays, finding Cynotilapia is much easier with the Internet as a shopping tool - people are no longer stuck with what they can find at their local fish stores. There are several online stores, online auction sites, and the "For Sale" areas of forums to browse through for species. Species like C. afra Cobwe are quite common and can be found fairly easily (even at many fish stores).

why_spyder: Cynotilapia sp. "Hara" is really growing in popularity and is getting easier to find. If the rare and unusual is more your style, there will be more searching involved - which may only leave the option of contacting importers.

why_spyder: Where can more information be found about these? A lot of information can be found in and around the many Cichlid forums out there online. There are definitely some experienced Cynotilapia keepers out there (more experienced than I) - and they are filled with tips, tricks, and compatibility-related information. Also, I highly recommend picking up a copy of Ad Koning's Malawi Cichlids in their natural habitat (either 3rd or 4th Edition) for great background information.

why_spyder: The books have a lot of photos and really explain how these fish live in the wild. If the books don't have enough photos for you, Ad has a CD of photos available on his site (www.cichlidpress.com) that has over 5,000(!) species images.

why_spyder: I would like to personally thank Larryochromis (Larry) and nick a (Nick) for their input into this article, and I'd like thank everyone that has helped me with my Cynotilapia obsession over the past couple years.

 

 

why_spyder: Now, we'll open up the floor for any questions, comments, etc.

 

StructureGuy: I'm surprised to hear that not all Cynotilapia sp. "Mbamba" have the color streak across the top. I've never seen any without it

why_spyder: I have seen quite a few species that are in the Mbamba-group that aren't like the few that are found here in the U.S. right now. Ad has some great shots of them on his CD.

 

DogWalker: Max size 4" (most). Is that in the wild? do they ever exceed that in the aquaria (ie: result of our generous hospitality).

why_spyder: Like most cichlids in captivity, it wouldn't surprise me to see larger than 4" Cynotilapia, DW.

Glaive: Are there documented jaw structure differences? The first two images appeared to show slightly different jaws/mouths

why_spyder: Alex - as of right now - the only thing that stands out for Cynotilapia is the dentition. Until I find out otherwise, that is all I know.

 

DogWalker: In your experience, what size territory do they claim? I've found mine claim smaller but more obvious territories than my other mbuna - and don't pursue the chase beyond the territorial boundaries.

why_spyder: DW - that is what I have noticed as well. About the biggest territory holder for me has been the C. sp. "Hara".

why_spyder: C. sp. "Lion" and C. sp. "Mbamba" have really stuck close to their cave/pot more so - where the C. sp. "Hara" has been more willing to adventure out farther.

 

DogWalker: For most species, would you recommend more than 1 male in a 4' tank?

why_spyder: For most species, I would say no simply to be on the safe side. If you have a hospital tank and/or outlet for an extra male, then maybe I would try more.

StructureGuy: I had two male Cobue in a 55 and it was a big rough. But 3 males worked in a 180

 

 

 

StructureGuy: a "bit"

 

 

why_spyder: I have had better luck with 1 or 3 males of a species - than 2.

why_spyder: Three allows for two sub dominants to take any brunt beating as opposed to just one.

DogWalker: Okay, I have at least 3 (not sure) in a 6' and it seems to work. Two territory holding plus some no-man's land for the others...

 

Glaive: So how many people here keep a Cynotilapia species?

Pam Chin: I do I do I do!

why_spyder: I do of course. :D

tchill93x: I would like to...none now...

why_spyder: Pam has some nice ones....

StructureGuy: None now. But I've had Cobue, C. sp. "Lion" Lions Cove and C sp. "Lion" Mara Rocks

maccichlid: C. afra Cobue is on my short list for my next tank

why_spyder: Structure - how were your Mara Rocks for aggression?

StructureGuy: Pretty darn peaceful

why_spyder: That's good to hear, Structure.

Pam Chin: Cynotilapia eduardi Cobue/Cobwe Cynotilapia sp. "Cape Maclear" Cynotilapia sp. "Jalo" Cynotilapia sp. "lion" Cynotilapia sp. "Lumbilla" Cynotilapia sp. "Minos reef" Cynotilapia sp. "Yellow Blaze" Cynotilapia sp. "Yellow Bee"

StructureGuy: Cobue treated every species with the same amount of respect and disrespect.

StructureGuy: DW what species do you have?

DogWalker: Kevin, I have Mara Point (across the lake from Mara Rocks)

 

tchill93x: Brian..you said they do not mix with mbuna with similar coloring? does that mean any with barring too? Like P. Crabro?

why_spyder: When I talked about similar pattern - I would say the coloration of the similar species is more important that whether or not the species has barring.

tchill93x: thanks

 

why_spyder: I have kept Ps. saulosi and Ps. demasoni with my Cynotilapia - without issue. However, the next person may have WWIII on their hands if they try that

DogWalker: I kept Lab sp. "Mbamba" with mine. Thought there wold be trouble but they got along.

why_spyder: You just need to be aware of what might occur with mixing similar looking species. And be prepared to deal with it.

tchill93x: What about P. crabros and their larger size...

why_spyder: Nice, DW.

tchill93x: that would be my concern...

StructureGuy: DW I don't remember you posting any pictures of your C. sp. "Mbamba"

why_spyder: Yeah, and that is a good concern. Ps. crabro can be brutal if they feel that the Cynotilapia is an opponent - or even a meal.

DogWalker: There are some... a few in the gallery I believe. They were wiped out by an epidemic last year

why_spyder: I would probably keep the Ps. crabro and Cynotilapia together at young age and monitor them as they grow together

tchill93x: Brian..I also wonder about the coloring of the P. crabros when mature...blue...many of yours were blue

why_spyder: However, I would stay away from adding adults together - too much of a risk for me.

maccichlid: ... and honor the 75 gallon rule for crabro

why_spyder: I think size will be a bigger issue than coloring for Ps. crabro/Cynotilapia.

StructureGuy: I've never seen the blue crabro available in the hobby

tchill93x: 125 g... here but 7" crabros and a few others...

tchill93x: 2 @ 5" and 2 @ 1"

tchill93x: blue when they are mature...mine is blue..

tchill93x: blue/black

why_spyder: Most of the mature Ps. crabro I have seen (males at least) were mostly a dark coloration.

why_spyder: I'm sure there is some natural variation though.

tchill93x: Actually I have a bunch from this afternoon...will post in gallery later..

StructureGuy: Cool. You've peaked my interest

tchill93x: Okay...I'll see if I can get my pictures in gallery now..

 

DogWalker: Blue crabro - look a lot like the Pseudotropheus sp. "Dolphin" just becoming popular (or they one and the same?)

why_spyder: DW - they are two different species.

StructureGuy: The crabro comes in two colors; yellow and black and the other is blue and black. But I've never seen the blues

why_spyder: DW - I believe that the Ps. sp. "Dolphin" has much thicker barring on its body.

 

hefe: Hi everyone. I have no fish yet, but am in "research" mode. I am going to get some Mbuna

DogWalker: Good move hefe

hefe: Is there an Afra that is less aggressive than others? this would be the only vertically striped fish Id be getting. I also like the mostly all blue type ( white top? )

why_spyder: Hefe - C. afra Cobwe are a good species to look into.

why_spyder: What size tank are you working with hefe?

hefe: will be a 120 gallons. 48 inch length

maccichlid: no, 120 gallon high is 48"

DogWalker: hefe - I ask because one drawback with C. afra is that with many species the females are rather drab looking...

maccichlid: hefe... if C. afra is the only vertically striped fish you're currently considering, does that mean you're leaning more towards horizontally striped fish?

hefe: Yeah mostly brownish

hefe: well I am going to have yellow labs, rusties, maybe red zebras. and an afra species. and johani? I am still learning the proper names

maccichlid: sounds like a good mix!

Glaive: You are doing your home work hefe, very nice selection.

why_spyder: Hefe - be aware that if you plan to keep females - that Lab. caeruleus (yellow labs) and Metriaclima estherae (red zebras) are known to hybridize.

why_spyder: if you plan to keep fry* - sorry.

hefe: yeah I learned that. Ill be getting some of those syno catfish : )

why_spyder: Nice!

DogWalker: Should be a fun tank

hefe: I hope so, its still a few months away... its very cold here ( NH ) I need to get rocks and they are under a few feet of snow!

why_spyder: It'll definitely be a colorful tank.

hefe: I think so : ) I just don't want the inhabitants to kill each other!

why_spyder: Overall - sounds like a mellow mix to me.

Glaive: mellow and a wide range of colors

why_spyder: Should make a great conversation piece. ;)

hefe: yeah thats what i am going for. Ive never had a fish tank.. though growing up my mom kept one.. Ive been wanting to do this for over 10 years!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DogWalker: Spyder, here's a good one for you - which species have the best looking females? (aw c'mon, you know what I mean...)

why_spyder: DW - C. sp. Hara probably has the best looking females.

why_spyder: They are at least a nice blue as opposed to most other species having brown females.

 

 

 

 

 

why_spyder: DW, I have actually been very happy with the C. afra Lupingu females - a fair amount of the male's coloration is exhibited in a few of my females.