{"product_id":"fossochromis-rostratus","title":"Fossochromis Rostratus","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"30\" data-end=\"441\"\u003eFossochromis rostratus is a striking Lake Malawi cichlid known for its elongated body, pointed snout, and subtly patterned coloration. Males develop more intense hues and slightly larger size as they mature, often displaying subtle iridescent blue or gold tones depending on lighting and diet. Their distinctive shape and graceful swimming style make them an appealing centerpiece for African cichlid aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"443\" data-end=\"759\"\u003eThis species is considered \u003cstrong data-start=\"470\" data-end=\"496\"\u003emoderate in difficulty\u003c\/strong\u003e. Like most Malawi cichlids, they prefer stable, alkaline water and a structured tank with plenty of rocks, caves, and open swimming areas. Males can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks, so proper space and hiding spots are essential to reduce aggression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"761\" data-end=\"785\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"761\" data-end=\"783\"\u003eCare Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"1080\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"824\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"788\" data-end=\"824\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"788\" data-end=\"802\"\u003eTank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Minimum 125 gallons\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"825\" data-end=\"853\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"827\" data-end=\"853\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"827\" data-end=\"843\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24–28°C\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"854\" data-end=\"873\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"873\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"863\"\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7.8–8.6\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"874\" data-end=\"952\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"876\" data-end=\"952\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"876\" data-end=\"895\"\u003eWater Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderately hard to hard (alkaline conditions required)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"953\" data-end=\"989\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"955\" data-end=\"989\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"955\" data-end=\"971\"\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-aggressive\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"990\" data-end=\"1080\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"992\" data-end=\"1080\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"992\" data-end=\"1001\"\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Omnivore — high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen foods, occasional live foods\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1082\" data-end=\"1395\"\u003eFossochromis rostratus is best kept with \u003cstrong data-start=\"1123\" data-end=\"1153\"\u003eother Lake Malawi cichlids\u003c\/strong\u003e of similar size and temperament. Avoid pairing with small, delicate fish or very aggressive Mbuna unless the tank is large and carefully managed. Proper aquascaping with rocks and caves helps reduce conflicts and supports natural behavior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1397\" data-end=\"1529\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"1397\" data-end=\"1529\" data-is-last-node=\"\"\u003eA distinctive Lake Malawi cichlid with a pointed snout and elegant presence—perfect for medium to large African cichlid aquariums.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Poseidon Aquatics And Plants","offers":[{"title":"4\"","offer_id":47946471243998,"sku":null,"price":64.99,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0645\/4768\/4574\/files\/Photo.png?v=1741200651","url":"https:\/\/poseidonaquaticsandplants.com\/products\/fossochromis-rostratus","provider":"Poseidon Aquatics And Plants","version":"1.0","type":"link"}