Albino Polystigma

About the Albino Polystigma Cichlid

The Albino Polystigma Cichlid is an albino colour form of Nimbochromis polystigma, a large predatory haplochromine cichlid native to Lake Malawi. The albino form retains the characteristic body shape of the species while displaying a pale cream to yellow-white body with striking red or pink eyes.

• Nimbochromis polystigma* is one of the larger Malawi haps and develops impressive size and presence as it matures. It is naturally a predatory species, feeding on smaller fish and other aquatic prey.

This is a fish best suited to a large Lake Malawi predator aquarium. Provide plenty of open swimming space, rockwork and caves, together with strong biological and mechanical filtration. Tank mates should be similarly sized and robust enough to avoid being viewed as prey.

The species is generally considered mildly to moderately aggressive, with males becoming territorial, particularly when breeding. It is also a maternal mouthbrooder, with females carrying fertilised eggs and fry in their mouths.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Nimbochromis polystigma
• Common Name: Albino Polystigma Cichlid
• Family: Cichlidae
• Type: Lake Malawi Hap / Predator
• Adult Size: Up to approximately 23 cm
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Minimum Aquarium: 400 L+
• Temperature: 24–27°C
• pH: 7.8–8.6
• Water Hardness: Hard, alkaline
• Diet: Carnivore / predator
• Tank Level: Middle to bottom
• Group Size: 1 male with multiple females
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder

Frequently Asked Questions

How big does an Albino Polystigma get?

Nimbochromis polystigma can reach around 23 cm in the wild, making it a substantially sized Malawi cichlid.

Is Albino Polystigma aggressive?

It is best described as semi-aggressive. It can become territorial, especially during breeding, but is not necessarily as aggressive as some Malawi mbuna.

What should I feed an Albino Polystigma?

As a predatory hap, it should receive a quality carnivorous cichlid diet. Pellets can form the staple diet, with suitable frozen foods used as variety.

Can it live with Peacock Cichlids?

Potentially, provided the aquarium is sufficiently large and the other fish are appropriately sized and compatible. Avoid keeping it with small fish that could become prey.

Does Albino Polystigma breed?

Yes. Like other Nimbochromis, it is a maternal mouthbrooder. The female carries the eggs and developing fry in her mouth.

Does it need a large aquarium?

Absolutely. Due to its adult size and predatory nature, a 400 L or larger aquarium is a much better long-term option than a small community tank.

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Keeping this large species in a small aquarium
• ❌ Housing it with tiny fish that can be swallowed
• ❌ Treating it like a small, peaceful Malawi cichlid
• ❌ Providing inadequate filtration
• ❌ Keeping multiple males without sufficient territory
• ❌ Feeding an unsuitable diet