Melanotus Hap
Mylochromis melanotus
Also known as: Melanotus Hap
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 20 cm
- Min Tank
- 300 L
- Lifespan
- 8-12
- Swimming Level
- middle
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- omnivore
- Temperament
- semi-aggressive during spawning; otherwise moderate
About
The Melanotus Hap is found along rocky and sandy transition zones in Lake Malawi where it forages for invertebrates. Males develop a clean blue-silver body overlaid with dark vertical banding during breeding condition. Females and non-breeding males are cryptically patterned. It is best kept in a large aquarium with other similarly sized haps.
Care Guide
Water: 24-27°C, pH 7.5-9.0, hard alkaline water; consistent chemistry for stable colouration. Tank: Minimum 300L; combined rock and sand zones to replicate natural habitat. Feeding: Quality cichlid pellets with supplemental frozen invertebrate foods. Behaviour: Semi-aggressive during spawning; males establish temporary territories over sandy patches. Compatibility: Mixed hap and peacock community; keep with similarly sized species.
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