Fenestratus

Adult fish of this species typically reach a length of about 14 cm. Their heads are iridescent blue, and their bodies acquire yellowish-orange hues; males, however, have significantly brighter and more expressive coloration. The pectoral and anal fins are adorned with a reddish color with small light specks, while the dorsal fin has a blue tint with a red border. These are their main external characteristics.

Fenestratus is endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. In nature, this cichlid inhabits transitional zones where sandy bottom areas alternate with rocky ridges. The fish prefer to stay in the middle water layers, actively exploring the substrate in search of food. The water parameters characteristic of their biotope are stable, with a high alkaline reaction and significant hardness.

The requirements for the hydrochemical composition of water for Fenestratus significantly narrow the range of compatible species. In addition, the rather aggressive behavior of males during spawning makes this list even shorter. Suitable neighbors include Mbuna cichlids of a similar size or large, but peaceful fish. Males show greater belligerence towards each other, so it is recommended to keep only one male with several females in a single aquarium.

For keeping an adult group of these fish, an aquarium of at least 200 L will be required. The decor can be quite simple: usually, sandy substrate and various compositions of large stones or rock fragments are used. These are used to create shelters such as caves and grottoes. Simple ceramic pots placed on their side, or other decorative elements, are also suitable. Water conditions for Fenestratus are specific: their habitat is characterized by high hardness (dGH value) and alkaline pH values. To maintain optimal water quality, it is recommended to replace 15–20% of the total volume weekly, and to regularly clean the substrate of accumulated organic waste.

Fenestratus readily accept various types of food: dry, frozen, and live. It is important that their daily diet includes both meaty and plant-based components, with meaty ones predominating. Specialized foods developed for Malawian cichlids and offered by many well-known manufacturers will be an ideal solution.

At the beginning of the breeding period, the male chooses a specific territory at the bottom of the aquarium, where he digs a small pit that will become the spawning site. He then actively invites females, sometimes showing some aggression in the process. For this reason, it is important to provide harem keeping: this will allow the male's attention to be dispersed among several potential partners. When the female is ready to spawn, she accepts the male's courtship, lays eggs, and immediately after fertilization, collects them into her mouth. For three weeks, she will incubate the eggs, and then the fry, in her mouth, protecting them from potential threats. Only after this are the fry released into free swimming. It is important to note that during this entire time, the female will not be able to eat, so it is necessary to provide the fish with sufficient food before spawning begins. This behavior, where fry are incubated in the mouth, is characteristic of most Lake Malawi cichlids; it has evolved and is an adaptation to high competition in their natural habitat.

The main cause of most diseases in these fish is unsuitable keeping conditions and poor-quality nutrition. If initial symptoms are observed, it is first necessary to check water parameters and the concentration of dangerous substances such as ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. If the indicators deviate from the norm, they should be brought back into order, and only then should treatment begin.

When purchasing, choose active fish with clean fins and no visible body damage. It is important to avoid individuals with signs of emaciation, sunken bellies, or unnatural behavior, such as a constant desire to hide in the corner of the aquarium. It is recommended to acquire young individuals, as they adapt more easily to new keeping conditions. Before purchasing, it is advisable to clarify the conditions in which the fish were kept to minimize stress during relocation.