Albino Taiwan Reef

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Cyphotilapia frontosa
• Common Name: Albino Taiwan Reef, Taiwan Reef Cichlid
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: Native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.

Physical Description

• Color: The Albino variant features a white to pale yellowish body with red or orange markings and a reddish tint to the fins.
• Size: They can grow quite large, typically reaching up to 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) in length.
• Body Shape: They have a robust, elongated body with a prominent forehead (hump) in males, giving them a distinctive appearance.
• Fins: Their dorsal fin is long and pointed, with a beautiful pattern that can vary among individuals.

Behavior

• Temperament: Generally, they are semi-aggressive and can be territorial, particularly during breeding. However, they can be peaceful if housed with compatible species.
• Social Structure: They can be kept in groups but may show aggression during breeding or when establishing territory.
• Swimming Style: They are active swimmers but also enjoy spending time near structures in their environment.

Habitat

• Natural Habitat: They inhabit the rocky substrate of Lake Tanganyika, often found near caves and crevices.
• Aquarium Setup: Provide a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots using rocks and caves. A sandy substrate is ideal, mimicking their natural environment.

Diet

• Feeding: They are omnivorous. In captivity, they thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality pellets, flakes, spirulina, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them 1-2 times daily, providing small portions they can consume within a few minutes.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: They are mouthbrooders, with females carrying fertilized eggs in their mouths until they hatch.
• Nesting: Males establish territories and attract females by displaying their coloration. The female lays eggs in a flat surface, which the male fertilizes, and she collects them in her mouth for incubation.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 50 gallons is recommended for a small group to allow enough space for swimming and territory establishment.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • pH Level: 7.5 to 9.0
  • Hardness: 10 to 20 dGH
• Filtration: Strong filtration is essential to maintain water quality, as they are sensitive to changes in their environment.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Suitable tank mates include other Lake Tanganyika cichlids, such as the Neolamprologus and Julidochromis species. Avoid aggressive or overly territorial fish that might stress the Albino Taiwan Reef.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live for 10 to 15 years or more in captivity.

Interesting Facts

• The Albino Taiwan Reef is appreciated for its striking appearance and dynamic behavior, making it a popular choice among aquarists.
• They are known for their intelligence and can recognize their owners, often responding to feeding time.