Author: (Stiassny, Schliewen & Dominey, 1992)
Comments: Feeds primarily on vegetative matter (preferably algae), but also takes detritus, insects, diatoms and small amounts of sponges (Ref. 52307). A dwarf species, with females reaching sexual maturity at 25 mm SL, making this the smallest tilapiine known (Ref. 26738, 52307). The number of eggs produced is accordingly small, with 10-20 eggs usually deposited, preferably in shallow water on various substrates; large colonies composed of many pairs have been observed (Ref. 52307). Pair-bonding, open (Ref. 52307) substratum brooder (Ref. 52307, 81260), with both parents guarding the brood and fry (Ref. 52307).