Haplochromis sp. 'Fire' (Uganda)

Haplochromis sp. 'Fire' from Uganda is an undescribed Victorian haplochromine collected from the Ugandan shoreline of Lake Victoria. Males develop deep orange-red colouration across the body and unpaired fins at maturity, earning the species its evocative trade name. The Ugandan collection locality gives it a slightly different genetic background from Tanzanian-sourced 'Flameback' forms, and hobbyists should ensure they keep these forms separate to avoid unintentional hybridisation.

Care requirements are standard for mid-sized Victorian haplochromines: alkaline hard water, rocky décor, and a harem arrangement. Males are aggressive in typical Victorian fashion, but manageable given adequate territory space and visual breaks in the aquarium layout.

This species represents the Ugandan contribution to the Victorian cichlid hobby and is an excellent choice for aquarists wishing to maintain geographically accurate Victorian collections. Its vivid colouration also makes it an excellent display fish.

Water: 22-27°C, pH 7.0-8.5, hard alkaline; consistent weekly water changes. Tank: 150L+; rocky layout with multiple territory zones and female retreats. Feeding: Cichlid pellets, spirulina, frozen invertebrates; balanced plant-animal diet. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; easy in captivity once hierarchy established. Compatibility: Victorian community; do not mix with similar orange-red species to prevent hybridisation.