Venustus Cichlid
Nimbochromis venustus
What you need to keep a Venustus Cichlid
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pH
7.7–8.6
Temperature
24–28 °C
Where to buy
Compare prices from SA aquarium shops listing Venustus Cichlid.
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Venustus, or Giraffe Cichlid, has a beautiful giraffe-like pattern, with males developing a brilliant blue head and yellow blaze. They are large, predatory fish that use a 'playing dead' tactic to ambush smaller fish in the wild. A spacious tank with robust tankmates is necessary for this impressive species.
Key traits
Care guide
Keeping Venustus Cichlid healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
Size the aquarium to Venustus Cichlid's adult size and activity level. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 7.7–8.6 and 24–28°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Carnivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Aggressive. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Venustus Cichlid last so territories reset.
Breeding
Breeding success with Venustus Cichlid depends on the line and water chemistry; ask your shop about proven pairs.
Settling this fish in?
Condition the tap water, seed the filter, test through the first weeks — most early losses trace back to one of those.
10% off your first order, no code, at checkout
Availability confirmed with the distributor before dispatch · free delivery over r750
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Market intelligence
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Price tracking started 18 Jul 2026 — chart builds as listings are updated
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