Furcifer (Cyathopharynx furcifer) — 4-5cm

Overview

The Furcifer, or Cyathopharynx furcifer, is a stunning and elegant Lake Tanganyika cichlid celebrated for its graceful elongated finnage, shimmering coloration, and specialized plankton-feeding behavior. Endemic to the rocky slopes and open waters of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, this species demands expert-level care, hard alkaline water, and a spacious, carefully planned aquarium. Available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, Cyathopharynx furcifer is ideal for experienced Tanganyikan enthusiasts seeking a rare, visually striking centerpiece for a species-specific or mixed Tanganyika community. With proper care, this captivating cichlid rewards dedicated aquarists with impressive displays and fascinating natural behaviors.

Appearance

Cyathopharynx furcifer is renowned for its dramatically elongated dorsal and anal fins, which flow gracefully as the fish swims. Males exhibit a silvery-blue to golden body with iridescent highlights and bold vertical barring, especially prominent during courtship and territorial displays. Fins are edged with vivid blue, yellow, or white margins depending on geographic origin and individual variation. Females are more subdued in coloration but retain the species' characteristic finnage. Adults reach up to 21 cm, with males significantly larger and more colorful than females. Juveniles display less dramatic fin development but develop their signature appearance as they mature. The overall effect is one of elegance and refinement, making this one of Tanganyika's most visually impressive species.

Natural Habitat

Cyathopharynx furcifer is endemic to Lake Tanganyika, where it inhabits rocky slopes and open water zones at moderate depths. Unlike many rock-dwelling Tanganyikan cichlids, this species feeds primarily on plankton suspended in the water column, often hovering in mid-water or near rocky outcrops. The lake's water is exceptionally clear, hard, alkaline, and stable, with high mineral content and excellent oxygenation. Furcifer forms loose aggregations and engages in elaborate courtship displays over sandy or rocky substrates. The stable environment and specialized niche of Lake Tanganyika demand precise replication in captivity.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum tank size of 450 litres is essential for Cyathopharynx furcifer, with larger setups (600+ litres) strongly recommended for multiple individuals or mixed Tanganyika communities. Provide rockwork arranged to create caves, overhangs, and shelters, but leave substantial open swimming space—this species is an active, graceful swimmer that requires room to display and feed. Use a sandy substrate and ensure excellent water quality through powerful external filtration and frequent large water changes (30-50% weekly). Lighting should be moderate to bright, reflecting the clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. Maintain high oxygenation and strong water movement. Decor should be stable and secure, as these cichlids can be active and boisterous during courtship and territorial disputes.

Feeding

Cyathopharynx furcifer is a specialized plankton feeder in the wild, and captive specimens require a varied diet of fine, high-quality foods. Offer premium cichlid pellets, spirulina flakes, and frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, cyclops, brine shrimp, and finely chopped krill. Live foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp are excellent conditioning foods. Avoid fatty, low-quality foods and overfeeding, which can lead to digestive issues and poor water quality. Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily, ensuring all food is consumed within a few minutes. Supplement with vitamin-enriched foods to support coloration and immune health. This species has a relatively small mouth adapted for plankton, so food particle size is important.

Behaviour

Cyathopharynx furcifer is semi-aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding. Males establish display territories and engage in elaborate courtship displays, spreading their impressive fins and showing intense coloration. Outside of breeding, they are relatively peaceful compared to many Tanganyikan cichlids, though they may chase or bully smaller, weaker tankmates. This species is an active, graceful swimmer that spends much of its time in open water or hovering near rockwork. They form loose hierarchies and are best kept in small groups (one male with several females) or in mixed Tanganyika communities with species of similar size and temperament. Avoid overcrowding, as stress and aggression increase in cramped conditions.

Tank Mates

Suitable tankmates include other peaceful to semi-aggressive Tanganyikan cichlids of similar size, such as Altolamprologus, Neolamprologus, and non-aggressive rock-dwelling species. Synodontis catfish from Lake Tanganyika are excellent bottom-dwelling companions. Avoid small, timid fish that may be bullied or eaten, as well as highly aggressive species that may attack Cyathopharynx furcifer's delicate finnage. Do not house with soft-water community fish—Tanganyikan cichlids require hard, alkaline water that is incompatible with most South American and Asian species. Ensure all tankmates share similar water parameter requirements and can tolerate the active, territorial nature of Tanganyikan communities.

Breeding

Cyathopharynx furcifer is a maternal mouthbrooder, with females incubating eggs and fry in their mouths for 3-4 weeks. Males establish and defend display territories, performing elaborate courtship displays with extended fins and vibrant coloration. After spawning, the female collects the eggs and retreats to a sheltered area. During incubation, the female does not eat and should be given space and low-stress conditions. Fry are released when fully developed and capable of independent feeding. Provide fine live foods (baby brine shrimp, microworms) and finely crushed quality flake or pellet food. Breeding success is more common in larger, well-maintained tanks with stable water parameters and appropriate social structure (one male to several females).

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is the UK's premier destination for rare and specialist Lake Tanganyika cichlids. Our Cyathopharynx furcifer specimens are carefully sourced, quarantined, and conditioned to thrive in your aquarium. We provide expert care advice, detailed setup guidance, and ongoing support to help you succeed with even the most challenging species. With fast, insured nationwide delivery and a live arrival guarantee, you can shop with confidence. Join thousands of satisfied UK aquarists who trust Tropical Fish Co for quality, expertise, and exceptional customer service. Discover the beauty of Lake Tanganyika—order your Furcifer today.