Pseudocrenilabrus sp. Ruaha - Mouthbrooding Cichlid

Pseudocrenilabrus sp. ‘Ruaha’ | A Rare and Undescribed African Mouthbrooding Cichlid

Pseudocrenilabrus sp. ‘Ruaha’ is a genuinely exciting and extremely rare find in the aquarium hobby — a potentially undescribed species from the Ruaha River system in Tanzania, East Africa, that has barely made its way into the trade and remains largely undocumented in the fishkeeping world. A member of the Pseudocrenilabrus genus — a group of small, personable, and fascinating maternal mouthbrooding cichlids from sub-Saharan Africa — it shares the characteristic intelligence, feisty temperament, and captivating breeding behaviour that makes this genus so rewarding to keep.

As a species with very limited published aquarium care data, care recommendations below are based on the well-established requirements of closely related Pseudocrenilabrus species. If you keep this fish, your observations and experiences genuinely contribute to the collective knowledge of this species in captivity.

Pseudocrenilabrus sp. ‘Ruaha’ Care Guide

Care at a Glance

• Scientific name: Pseudocrenilabrus sp. ‘Ruaha’
• Also known as: Ruaha Mouthbrooder, Ruaha Dwarf Cichlid
• Origin: Ruaha River system, Tanzania, East Africa
• Adult size: approximately 2.5–3.5 inches (6–9 cm) based on related species
• Minimum tank size: 30 gallons — larger recommended if keeping a harem or community setup
• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH: 6.5–7.8 — adaptable across a range of water chemistries
• Hardness: soft to moderately hard water
• Best kept as one male with two or more females
• Lifespan: estimated 4–6 years based on related species

Tank Setup

A well-planted aquarium with fine sand or smooth substrate, plenty of caves, dense planting, and clear sightline breaks suits all Pseudocrenilabrus species well. Males are territorial and will dig spawning pits in the substrate — established plants are generally left alone, but fine-leaved or delicate species may be disturbed. Caves and hiding spots are particularly important for females, who need secure retreats to avoid male harassment and to brood in peace. Provide at least two or three sheltered areas per female in the tank.

Feeding

Unfussy and adaptable omnivores. A high quality cichlid pellet or flake forms an excellent staple, supplemented regularly with frozen or live foods such as bloodworm, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Variety is important for maintaining condition and encouraging breeding behaviour.

Breeding — Maternal Mouthbrooding

Like all Pseudocrenilabrus species, the ‘Ruaha’ is a maternal mouthbrooder — one of the most fascinating and accessible breeding behaviours in the cichlid world. The male courts the female over a spawning pit, eggs are fertilised and immediately taken into the female’s mouth, and she broods them for approximately 12–14 days before releasing free-swimming fry. She will continue to shelter fry in her buccal cavity when threatened for several days after first release. Males can be aggressive toward brooding females — keep more females than males and ensure ample cover to protect brooding individuals.

Tank Mates

• Fast-moving mid and upper water fish that occupy different tank levels — African tetras, Congo Tetras, and similar species
• Avoid housing with other cichlid species — Pseudocrenilabrus are territorial toward other bottom-dwelling cichlids
• Avoid keeping two males together in anything but a large, heavily structured aquarium
• Peaceful catfish and bottom dwellers in larger, well-structured setups — monitor closely for aggression