Aristochromis christyi

Aristochromis christyi, the Malawi Hawk Cichlid, is one of the most hydrodynamically streamlined large cichlids in the lake — its torpedo-shaped body, large forked tail, and forward-facing eyes are all adaptations for open-water stalking of prey. Males develop a handsome blue-grey body coloration with a subtle metallic sheen and a slight yellow-orange tinge to the dorsal fin.

This species is an active pursuit predator rather than an ambusher, spending much of its time cruising the open water and lake surface. In the aquarium this translates to a fish that is constantly on the move and requires a very long tank of 600 L or more. It is one of the largest Malawi Haps in terms of mass when fully grown.

Maternal mouthbrooder producing large broods. Females are silver-grey. Males are aggressive toward rivals and will consume any fish small enough to be pursued and caught. Kept with equally large non-predatory Haps, christyi makes a dramatic and impressively active display fish for the specialist keeper.

Water: pH 7.6–8.8, 24–28°C, GH 10–20, KH 10–18; pristine well-oxygenated water; heavy-duty filtration. Tank: 600 L minimum; very long tank footprint; minimal decor; high-flow environment. Feeding: Large carnivore pellets, silversides, whole krill; feed every other day for adults. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; large broods; rarely bred in home aquaria due to space requirements. Compatibility: Large Haps of 25 cm+ only; will consume smaller fish; not compatible with standard Malawi community tanks.