Pearl of Likoma Care Guide

The Pearl of Likoma is a vibrant and intriguing fish to add to your aquarium, known for its vibrant colors and social behavior. Although its care process requires attention to detail, with the right approach, maintaining a healthy environment is fully achievable for this species.

Care Process

The Pearl of Likoma is a moderately hardy species but requires careful attention to water parameters. Ensure that the pH levels range between 7.8 and 9, and maintain water temperatures between 24°C to 28°C. With a length ranging from 10 cm to 14 cm, individual fish require about 20 liters of well-filtered water. Regular water changes help in preserving water quality, keeping ammonia and nitrite levels at zero, which is crucial for their health and prevent stressful conditions.

They are moderately social creatures, so housing them in a school of at least six with adequate space reduces stress and promotes natural behavior. Monitoring their behavior is vital, especially during breeding, when they become slightly more aggressive and territorial.

Feeding

The Pearl of Likoma has a diverse diet that includes flakes, pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and tubifex worms. Providing a balanced diet by including frozen shrimp, vegetable matter, algae wafers, and color-enhancing food ensures they obtain all necessary nutrients. Offer daphnia, micro worms, and freeze-dried foods for variety, and occasionally stick-on tablets. Being slightly more peaceful, ensure they aren’t outcompeted for food within their community setup.

Tank Setup

The ideal tank setup for the Pearl of Likoma should provide ample space to accommodate schooling behavior, with a minimum space requirement of 20 liters per fish. Given their behavior as surface, mid-tank, and bottom dwellers, incorporate different layers of interest in the tank. Mimic natural habitats by adding rocks and vegetation to create hiding spots, contributing to their sense of security.

Consider using a substrate that complements their natural environment alongside plants that can withstand their movements within the tank. The use of adequate filtration and consistent water heating is crucial to maintain stable living conditions that align with their natural preferences.

Additional Information

The Pearl of Likoma, while mostly peaceful, can display moderate territorial behaviors. Though not commonly bred in captivity, enthusiasts can attempt breeding by setting up a specialized breeding tank. Closely observing their behavior during these periods ensures prompt action can be taken to mitigate aggressive interactions.

Once breeding endeavors are successful, providing a nursery environment for the fry, separate from adults, enhances their survival odds. Feed the fry appropriately with infusoria, baby brine shrimp, or specially formulated fry food during their early life stages.

Engaging with these enchanting creatures requires dedication and attention to detail, but the rewarding experience of witnessing their vibrant colors flourish in a well-maintained tank is immensely satisfying.