Description
Remarks: Thickskin obliquidens, or Haplochromis sp. 44, are a similar species to the zebra obliquidens in color. In attitude, however, thickskins are much more aggressive. Though only 4″ on average, they have been known to bully much larger Haplochromis species in aquariums with plenty of free space. They should be kept in all-male African cichlid tanks or as a harem of 1-3 males and 5-10 females. Plenty of rockwork should be provided in the tank for subdominant males and females to avoid the aggression and courtship attempts.
Spawning is relatively easy and proceeds as a typical maternal mouthbrooder. Spawns of 20-30 fry will be raised by the mother until they become free-swimming. While the female is mouthbrooding, she may harassed by other fish, so a spare tank for isolation while she is holding would not be a bad idea.
