Malawi Eyebiter

Remarks: The Malawi Eyebiter (Dimidiochromis compressiceps) gets its name from its unique hunting strategy: They hide in crevices and quickly ambush passing prey, aiming for the eyes. Once the fish is crippled and weak, they are able to eat the remains. For this reason, they require a large tank and large tankmates. Their mouths are surprisingly large and will easily hold a sub-adult mbuna, for example.

Being a large Hap, they take a while to color up. The wait will be rewarded with a bright blue fish with orange and black fins and a gaping mouth.

Scientific Name: Dimidiochromis compressiceps

Common Name: Malawi Eyebiter

Max Size: 12"

pH: 7.5-8.4

Hardness: Hard

Temperature: 74-82°

Aggressiveness: Aggressive

Region of Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa

Captive Bred or Wild: Captive Bred

Diet: Flake or pellet

Compatibility: Victorian Haps, Malawi Haps, Malawi Peacocks, Synodontis

Tank Mate Options:

• Malawi Gar
• Malawi Hawk
• Buccochromis rhoadesii