Pseudocrenilabrus is a genus of relatively small African cichlids distributed across a wide range of rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes in eastern, central, and southern parts of the continent. Members of the genus are particularly known for maternal mouthbrooding, in which the female takes fertilized eggs into her mouth and protects the developing young until they are capable of swimming independently. Mature males of many populations develop attractive coloration during breeding, while their manageable size and distinctive courtship and parental behavior make Pseudocrenilabrus especially interesting cichlids for observing reproduction and social interactions in the aquarium.
