Haplochromis sauvagei

Haplochromis sauvagei is a medium-to-large Victorian haplochromine found in various locations around Lake Victoria. Males develop a yellow-orange body colouration with blue highlights on the face and fins at maturity, creating an attractive display in a well-lit aquarium. The species has a robust, deep-bodied build typical of many open-water and rocky-shore Victorian haplochromines.

Being on the larger side for a Victorian haplochromine, H. sauvagei requires a more spacious aquarium than the smaller Pundamilia species. A minimum of 200 litres is recommended for a breeding group, with larger tanks preferred. Aggression is moderate and manageable in a well-structured Victorian community, provided tankmates are chosen carefully.

This species is an omnivore in the wild, consuming invertebrates, algae, and small fish. In the aquarium, a varied diet of cichlid pellets, spirulina, and frozen foods ensures proper development and colouration.

Water: 22-27°C, pH 7.0-8.5, moderately hard alkaline; weekly 25-30% water changes. Tank: 200L minimum; open swimming space combined with rocky territory structures. Feeding: Quality cichlid pellets, spirulina flakes, and frozen mysis or brine shrimp. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; standard Victorian cichlid breeding protocols apply. Compatibility: Victorian community with species of similar or larger size; avoid smaller Pundamilia.