Ophthalmotilapia Ventralis “Blue Gold Tip”

Ophthalmotilapia ventralis, scientifically known as Ophthalmotilapia ventralis, is a graceful, open-water cichlid native to the rocky shorelines of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It is well known in the aquarium hobby for the striking elongated ventral fins of the males and its lively, active swimming behavior in the mid-to-upper water column.

Adult Ophthalmotilapia ventralis typically reach about 5 to 6 inches (13 to 15 cm) in length. Males are especially impressive, with long, filamentous ventral fins that can extend nearly the length of the body, brilliant metallic blue or turquoise coloration on the head and flanks, and sometimes yellow or gold accents on the body and fins. Females are more subdued in color, usually silver-gray with faint horizontal striping, and lack the long ventral fin streamers.

A tank of at least 75 gallons is recommended for a breeding group or community setup, as these are active, open-water swimmers. The aquarium should have a sandy substrate, scattered rock formations for territory boundaries, and large open swimming spaces. Since they are sand sifters, avoid sharp gravel that could damage their mouths. Gentle to moderate water movement is appreciated.

Water parameters should mimic Lake Tanganyika: a temperature of 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C), a pH between 8.0 and 9.0, and very hard, alkaline water high in dissolved minerals. Stable conditions and excellent water quality are crucial for health and breeding.

Feeding Ophthalmotilapia ventralis is straightforward—they are omnivorous with a preference for small invertebrates in the wild. Offer a high-quality spirulina-based flake or pellet, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Avoid excessive animal protein to prevent digestive issues.

These fish are generally peaceful for cichlids but can be territorial, particularly males displaying for females. They do best in groups of one male with several females, or in a Tanganyikan community with other peaceful, similarly sized species that occupy different ecological niches.

Breeding Ophthalmotilapia ventralis is possible in captivity. They are maternal mouthbrooders: the male will display and dig small pits in the sand to entice females, who then lay eggs and immediately take them into their mouths. The male fertilizes the eggs through the “egg spot” method. Females carry the eggs and fry for about three weeks before releasing free-swimming young, which can be fed newly hatched brine shrimp.

Ophthalmotilapia ventralis is a beautiful, active cichlid that adds elegance and constant motion to a Lake Tanganyika display, especially when a well-conditioned male displays his full fin extensions and brilliant breeding colors.