Pelvicachromis subocellatus

Pelvicachromis subocellatus lives in lakes and slow streams, some of them brackish, along the coastal strip from Gabon to the mouth of the Congo River. Compared with its relatives it has a shorter, deeper body; the spots on the upper part of the tail are sparser. In the breeding season the female's flanks turn deep pink, a black blotch appears in the middle and the dorsal fin gives off shining silvery reflections. Local forms such as "Matadi" and "Moanda" should be kept separate.

• At least 80 liters for a pair.
• 23–26°C; it adapts to water from soft to fairly hard, and pH 5.5–6.5 at 24–26°C is suitable for breeding.
• Caves (coconut shells, flowerpots), fine sand, roots and plants.

Omnivorous. Sinking granules, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia, with occasional plant-based food, are suitable.

It forms monogamous pairs and raises its fry in a cave; the female usually initiates, and up to 200 eggs can be laid in a single spawning. During breeding it defends the area around the cave and chases bottom dwellers. It eats shrimp.

Good companions: midwater schooling fish (tetras, rasboras, African characins), bristlenose plecos (Ancistrus).

Avoid: bottom dwellers (in a small tank), shrimp, other Pelvicachromis pairs, large aggressive cichlids.