Mcheni Hap
Champsochromis spilorhynchus
Also known as: Mcheni Hap, Mcheni, Spilorhynchus
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 35 cm
- Min Tank
- 500 L
- Lifespan
- 8-12
- Swimming Level
- middle
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- carnivore
- Temperament
- aggressive piscivore; unsuitable for community aquaria
About
The Mcheni is one of Lake Malawi's apex cichlid predators, using its elongated streamlined body to pursue prey fish across open water. Adults can exceed 35cm and require a very large, sparsely decorated aquarium. It is best kept alone or with a few other very large, robust haps that cannot be swallowed.
Care Guide
Water: 24-27°C, pH 7.5-9.0, hard alkaline water; powerful canister filtration required. Tank: Minimum 500L; largely open water column, minimal decoration to avoid injury. Feeding: Large cichlid pellets, whole prawns, frozen smelt, and occasional live feeder fish. Behaviour: Active open-water predator; will pursue and consume any fish it can catch. Compatibility: Species tank or with only very large, non-edible Malawi haps.
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