Species profile
Haplochromis Obliquidens
Haplochromis latifasciatus
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
200 L minimum aquarium
8–12 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Minimum group: 4
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Accepted name updated to Haplochromis latifasciatus. Retain Astatotilapia latifasciata and 'zebra obliquidens' as search aliases because they remain common in the trade.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–27 °C
pH
7.2–8.5
GH
8–20 dGH
KH
5–15 dKH
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 4
Tank zone
Mid bottom
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Fry
Bioload factor
2
Territorial haplochromine cichlid. Maintain one male with several females or a carefully structured group and provide strong visual barriers.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
6–8 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
200 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Haplochromis latifasciatus
Alternative names
Astatotilapia latifasciata, Zebra Obliquidens, Haplochromis sp. "zebra obliquidens"
Native range
Lake Kyoga/Lake Nawampasa region of Uganda; aquarium stock is widely captive bred.
Natural habitat
Shallow vegetated lake margins and structurally complex littoral habitats; moderately hard to hard, neutral-to-alkaline water.
Diet & feeding
General omnivore taking invertebrates and plant material; use varied cichlid pellets plus vegetable matter and frozen foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males develop stronger red/yellow/black barring and are more territorial; females are smaller and duller.
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder. Male courts females on a defended spawning site; the female incubates eggs and fry orally.