Threespot Torpedo

About

The Threespot Torpedo (Exochochromis anagenys) is a piscivorous cichlid from one of Africa's most celebrated rift lakes, Lake Malawi, where it ranges across Thumbi West Island and the southeastern arm of the lake. In the wild it occupies moderately deep water, moving between sandy flats and rocky zones in pursuit of smaller fish. A hunting lifestyle that sets it apart from the algae-scrapers and invertebrate-pickers that dominate the Malawi cichlid hobby. It reaches a solid adult size, and that combined with its predatory nature means tankmates need to be chosen carefully. Anything small enough to be swallowed will eventually disappear, so keeping it alongside similarly sized, robust cichlids is the sensible approach. As an omnivore in captivity it will accept a range of meaty foods readily. The species carries enough size and personality to anchor a species-focused or Lake Malawi biotope setup, but the predatory temperament and space requirements put it in intermediate territory rather than beginner-friendly. Keepers who enjoy the challenge of managing a true piscivore in a Malawi context will find this an engaging and characterful fish to work with over its multi-year lifespan.