Un peu plus d'informations...

Haplochromis CH-44 obliquidens: a cichlid from the Victoria basin

Haplochromis CH-44 obliquidens, also called Thick Skin Migori, is an African cichlid associated with the haplochromine complex of Lake Victoria. Its trade name refers to the Migori region, while the code CH-44 helps distinguish this form in the aquarium trade. It is best suited to aquarists who enjoy active, colorful geographic cichlids. Like several Lake Victoria species, it requires alkaline water, strong filtration, and a layout that provides visual boundaries. With a rarity rating of 1, it is considered relatively accessible through specialized aquarium channels.

General species description

Haplochromis CH-44 obliquidens is a haplochromine-type cichlid usually kept in groups with more females than males. It displays territorial behavior, especially among adult males defending a breeding area. A spacious aquarium structured with rocks and open swimming areas helps distribute aggression. Social stability is important: subordinate fish must be able to move out of the dominant male’s line of sight. Strong biological filtration and well-oxygenated water are recommended for this active fish. Breeding occurs through maternal mouthbrooding, a characteristic shared by many Lake Victoria cichlids.

Geographical origin and biotope

This form is associated with the Lake Victoria basin in East Africa. The country listed for this profile is Tanzania, while the name Thick Skin Migori points toward the Migori River in Kenya, within the western basin of the lake. The regional habitat includes rocky shorelines, vegetated margins, and areas where sand, gravel, and stones occur together. The water is generally alkaline and mineral-rich. In the aquarium, avoid excessively acidic or heavily stained water and provide clear, well-circulated water with visual shelter among the rocks.

Precise locality and local name

The trade name Thick Skin Migori associates Haplochromis CH-44 obliquidens with the Migori region and its river system in the Lake Victoria basin. This designation is mainly useful for distinguishing the population or form from other haplochromines within the Victoria complex. The code CH-44 is also retained in the trade to identify this line. To preserve its geographic identity, it is best not to mix it with other closely related haplochromines when controlled breeding is intended. Breeding fish should be kept apart from commercial forms of different geographic origin.

Appearance and physical characteristics

Haplochromis CH-44 obliquidens has the compact, robust body shape typical of many Lake Victoria cichlids. The vernacular name Thick Skin suggests a sturdy body appearance, but it is not by itself a diagnostic anatomical feature. Adult males are usually more colorful, while females and juveniles show more subdued tones. Coloration can change with mood, hierarchy, and breeding activity. The dorsal and anal fins may show stronger color in dominant males. Reliable identification depends primarily on geographic origin, strain, and comparison with reference specimens.

General diet

Haplochromis CH-44 obliquidens readily accepts a varied diet made up of quality African cichlid pellets, flakes, small frozen foods, and plant-based foods. To reduce digestive problems, the diet should include a portion of vegetable matter, especially spirulina or preparations suitable for Lake Victoria cichlids. Feed small portions once or twice daily, with an occasional lighter feeding day. Very fatty or exclusively meat-based foods should be avoided. A consistent diet supports male coloration, growth, and good reproductive condition.

Essential data

• Name of river of origin: Migori
• Local name used: Thick Skin Migori
• Origin of the scientific name: Haplochromis is the genus name; obliquidens is the specific epithet.
• Etymology of the full name: Haplochromis comes from Greek roots suggesting a simple chromis; obliquidens combines Latin roots referring to oblique teeth.
• Common/vernacular names: Thick Skin Migori
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Pseudocrenilabrinae
• Name pronunciation: hap-lo-KRO-mis - ob-li-KWI-dens
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 28 °C; pH 7.5 to 8.5
• Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: clear rocky or sandy-gravelly shorelines, with variable aquatic and riparian vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Astatotilapia latifasciata, Haplochromis thereuterion, Pundamilla nyererei
• Temperament and behavior: territorial, active, and generally more combative during breeding
• Water depth: shallow to intermediate littoral zones
• Sexual dimorphism: males are more colorful and often larger; females are duller
• Bottom structure and flow: rocky, sandy, or gravelly bottom; still to moderately moving water

In your aquarium

Success with Haplochromis CH-44 obliquidens depends on a spacious aquarium, stable alkaline water, and rocks arranged to create visual barriers. Keep several females per male, feed moderately, and monitor subordinate fish. Effective filtration, regular water changes, and avoiding mixtures of different geographic strains support good health and help preserve this line in captivity.