Sciaenochromis ahli

Common name: Electric Blue Ahli (also known as Blue Ahli Cichlid)

Origin: Native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.

Optimal living conditions:

• Temperature: 24 - 28 °C
• pH: 7.5 - 8.5
• Aquarium size: 200 liters+ (larger aquariums are needed for this species due to their territorial nature)

Adult fish size: 15 - 20 cm

Diet: Omnivore. The Electric Blue Ahli will readily accept high-quality cichlid pellets, live foods like brine shrimp, earthworms, and various frozen foods such as bloodworms and daphnia. They also appreciate some vegetable matter, such as spirulina or blanched spinach. Offering a varied diet will ensure they remain healthy and vibrant.

Tankmates: Sciaenochromis ahli can be quite territorial, especially during breeding periods, so it’s best to keep them with other robust, similarly-sized fish that won’t be bullied. Other Lake Tanganyika cichlids are ideal tankmates, but caution should be taken with small or peaceful species that may become targets for aggression. Keeping them in groups of one male and several females can help reduce aggression from males.

Note: The Electric Blue Ahli is one of the most stunning cichlids you can keep in a freshwater aquarium, known for its brilliant blue coloration, which intensifies in males, especially during breeding. Males may also develop a slight nuchal hump (a forehead bump) as they mature, which adds to their impressive appearance. These cichlids are active and require a well-structured aquarium with plenty of rocks, caves, and territories. While not particularly aggressive, they will defend their space, so a larger tank with ample hiding spots is recommended.

Note: This small chart is only the basics and is not enough for you to decide if this fish is right for you! Do your own detailed research before buying!!