What size tank does a Dogtooth Cichlid need?

A Dogtooth Cichlid (Cynotilapia afra) requires a minimum tank size of 150 litres. As they can grow up to 10 cm, a larger aquarium is always better to ensure they thrive.

What are the ideal water parameters for Dogtooth Cichlid?

Keep your Dogtooth Cichlid in water between 24–28°C with a pH of 7.5–8.5. They prefer a hardness of 10–20 dGH. Stable parameters are more important than hitting exact numbers.

What are good tank mates for Dogtooth Cichlid?

Good companions include Other Malawi mbuna, Synodontis. Avoid keeping them with Peaceful fish, Shrimp. The Dogtooth Cichlid is generally aggressive, so choose tank mates accordingly.

What should I feed my Dogtooth Cichlid?

The Dogtooth Cichlid is an omnivore. Omnivore; spirulina flakes, cichlid pellets. Feed small amounts twice daily and include variety for optimal health and colour.

How long does a Dogtooth Cichlid live?

With proper care, a Dogtooth Cichlid can live up to 8 years in captivity. Good water quality, a balanced diet, and appropriate tank mates all contribute to a long, healthy life.

Cynotilapia afra

Dogtooth Cichlid (Cynotilapia afra)

Name: Dogtooth Cichlid (Cynotilapia afra)
Brand: Tropical Fish Co
SKU: JP35
Price: 9.99 GBP
Availability: PreOrder

Moderate Care

Aggressive

£9.99 – £15.99In Stock

Size

A colourful and active Lake Malawi mbuna. Available now with live arrival guarantee and fast UK delivery.

AggressiveCichlidaeFishLake malawi cichlidLake Tanganyika CichlidsLive FishModerate Caresite:tropical-fish-co

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Cynotilapia afra

Adult Size

10 cm

Lifespan

8 years

Care Level

Moderate

Temperament

Aggressive

Temperature

24–28°C

pH Range

7.5–8.5

Hardness

10–20 dGH

Minimum Tank

150L

Diet

Omnivore; spirulina flakes, cichlid pellets

Water Parameters

Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors

Temperature

24–28°C

24°CIdeal Range28°C

pH Level

7.5–8.5

7.5Ideal Range8.5

Water Hardness

10–20 dGH

10 dGHIdeal Range20 dGH

The Dogtooth Cichlid (Cynotilapia afra) is a colourful and active lake malawi mbuna. Originating from Africa (Lake Malawi), this aggressive species is rated as moderate care level and can live up to 8 years with proper husbandry.

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name	Cynotilapia afra
Family	Cichlidae
Origin	Africa (Lake Malawi)
Care Level	moderate
Temperament	aggressive
Adult Size	10 cm
Minimum Tank Size	150 litres
Temperature	24–28°C
pH Range	7.5–8.5
Water Hardness	10–20 dGH
Diet	Omnivore; spirulina flakes, cichlid pellets
Lifespan	8 years
Tank Region	middle
Group Size	1 male with 3-4 females

Origin & Natural Habitat

The Dogtooth Cichlid hails from Africa (Lake Malawi). Cynotilapia afra comes in many colour morphs including Jalo Reef, Chimate White, and Red Dorsal. Typical mbuna aggression; overstock to spread aggression.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

Provide a minimum of 150 litres for your Dogtooth Cichlid. Adults reach approximately 10 cm, so plan accordingly. Maintain water temperature between 24–28°C with a pH of 7.5–8.5 and hardness of 10–20 dGH. This species primarily occupies the middle region of the aquarium. Recommended group size: 1 male with 3-4 females.

Feeding Guide

The Dogtooth Cichlid is an omnivore. Omnivore; spirulina flakes, cichlid pellets. Feed small portions twice daily for optimal health and colouration.

Compatible Tank Mates

Good companions for the Dogtooth Cichlid include Other Malawi mbuna, Synodontis. Avoid housing with Peaceful fish, Shrimp. You might also consider species such as Cichlid Lake Malawi Afra Cynotilapia Chimate, Lwanda Peacock Cichlid, Albino Golden Mbuna Cichlid from our collection.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co?

At Tropical Fish Co, every fish is carefully selected and shipped with care across the UK. We offer live arrival guarantee, expert advice, and competitive prices. Order your Dogtooth Cichlid today and enjoy next-day delivery to your door.

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Moved by UK carriers licensed to handle live animals

Trained Packing

Hand-packed with oxygen bags, poly box, heat pack

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Replacement or refund — just tell us the same day

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How your fish gets to you

Dispatched Tuesday, delivered Wednesday — every order tracked and insured.

Dispatched on Tuesdays by a UK courier legally licensed to carry live animals. You’ll get a tracking number on dispatch morning and live updates through the afternoon.
Hand-packed in an insulated poly box with oxygen bags and (Oct–Apr) 40-hour heat packs. £20 flat rate covers any number of fish.
Covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee. Tell us the same day your fish arrive with a short unboxing video — replacement or refund, no arguments. Why we need a video
You need to be home.Live fish cannot be left on doorsteps or with neighbours — it kills them. Please only order for days when someone will be in to sign.

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