Malawi Cichlids in their Natural Habitat

A Dutch-German collaboration. Ad Knonings, Author. Horst Walter Dieckhoff, Photographer. Published in Holland. Lake Malawi harbors one of the most interesting and colorful cichlid fish communities known today. More than 500 species have been recognized and only found in this lake. The most spectacular fact is that they have originated from a very few ancestral species. During evolution their feeding behavior has developed in an astonishing array of widely varying specializations. Using different sources of nutrition these specialized cichlids are able to inhabit all available biotopes of the lake. At most locations, the communities consist of dense populations of numerous species, not unlike the situation in many aquariums. The brilliant colors and easy maintenance have gained Malawi cichlids a steady place among aquarists. Ad Konings has made several explorations in Lake Malawi. As a passionate cichlid-lover and active aquarist, he understood the need for information on the behavior of these beautiful cichlids. This volume contains Mr. Konings' many experiences and observation in Lake Malawi. Many of the excellent pictures were taken by Horst Walter Dieckoff in their natural environment of Lake Malawi.