Nimbochromis linni

The linni is the oddest-looking member of the genus Nimbochromis: its snout is long and curves downward, which is why it is called "elephant-nose" in English. Its body carries large brown blotches on a cream background. When hunting, it stays on top of the rocks, and thanks to this snout it can catch small fish hiding in the crevices below. A bluish sheen appears on the heads of mature males.

• At least 600 liters and 180 cm in length for an adult group.
• Rock groups with crevices along the sides and a wide open swimming area.
• Hard and alkaline water (pH 7.8–8.5); aragonite substrate or Malawi salt.
• Strong filtration and weekly 40–50% water changes.

Carnivorous. A sinking large cichlid pellet should be the staple; frozen mysis, krill, shrimp and fish meat are added. Because of the structure of its mouth, it takes food from the bottom more easily.

It is relatively calm toward fish of its own size; as males mature, they become territorial toward their own species. It hunts small fish that fit in its mouth. It can hybridize with other Nimbochromis species.

Good companions: large haps such as the blue dolphin cichlid, Malawi eye-biter, electric blue ahli and Fossorochromis rostratus, large Synodontis catfish suited to hard water.

Avoid: other Nimbochromis species (hybridization), mbuna, small Aulonocara species, any fish that fits in its mouth, community fish, shrimp and snails.