When in 1902 the Dwarf Egyptian Mouthbrooder (Pseudocrenilabrus multicolor) was imported for the very first time hobbyists were really enthusiastic about it. The mouthbrooding behaviour which lasts in that species a good time longer than the first release from the maternal mouth was simply fascinating for our ancestors to observe.
Some years later – 1911 – a similar species was imported. It became somewhat larger (5-6 cm in P. multicolor, 6-8 cm in the new species) and was determined as Pseudocrenilabrus philander dispersus or Brass Mouthbrooder, sometimes also as Southern Mouthbrooder. This species is much nicer in respect of coloration, but as easy to keep and breed as its cousin.
This fish was studied again 1990. The research resulted in the finding that it was not identical with P. philander dispersus, but an undescribed form, which was named Pseudocrenilabrus multicolor victoriae. Since then the same fish swims under both names – P. philander dispersus and P. multicolor victoriae – in the aquaria worldwide. Only very recently it was discovered that a great number of undecscribed species of Pseudocrenilabrus exists. We should wait until the results of that research are published before we should decide how to name the Brass Mouthbrooder correctly.
This is a wonderful aquarium fish with a splendid coloration and a fascinating behaviour. It can be kept very well in planted tanks, for the fish do not harm the plants. Due to the small size the fish also needs no large aquaria. However, one should not underestimate the potential of aggressivness in this golden flasher. One should never keep delicate or sensitive fish along with them.
For our customers: thev fish have code 567002 on our stocklist. Please note that we exclusively supply the wholesale trade.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
