Malawi Sand Diver Care Guide
Fossorochromis rostratus
Stocking Calculator
Bioload Score
29000
AggressiveModerateFreshwater
- Max Size
- 30.0 cm / 12.0"
- Temperature
- 25–28°C (77–82°F)
- pH Range
- 7.8 – 8.6
- Min Tank Size
- 300L (79 gal)
- Min Group Size
- Can be kept alone
- Tank Level
- Bottom-Mid
- Origin
- Lake Malawi
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Breeding Difficulty
- Moderate
Diet
Carnivorous. In the wild, they feed on smaller fish. In captivity, provide a varied diet including high-quality pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like small fish, shrimp, and other protein-rich options.
Community Compatibility
They should be kept with other large, aggressive cichlids from Lake Malawi. Avoid keeping them with smaller or more peaceful species.
Good to Know
Malawi Sand Divers can be aggressive, so monitor their behaviour if kept with other fish.
Gender Differences
Males are typically larger and more colorful, with a distinct elongated snout.
Stock Malawi Sand Diver in Your Tank
Use our free stocking calculator to see if Malawi Sand Diver fits your aquarium