Modest Hap
Stigmatochromis modestus
Also known as: Modest Hap, Modestus
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 25 cm
- Min Tank
- 400 L
- Lifespan
- 8-12
- Swimming Level
- middle
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- carnivore
- Temperament
- aggressive predator; territorial and piscivorous
About
The Modest Hap is one of the larger predatory cichlids from Lake Malawi, reaching up to 25cm. Males develop a blue-silver body with dark lateral markings at maturity. As an active piscivore, it should only be kept with tankmates large enough not to be eaten. It is best maintained with other large haps and Nile perch-type cichlids.
Care Guide
Water: 24-27°C, pH 7.5-9.0, hard alkaline water; strong filtration essential for a large predator. Tank: Minimum 400L; spacious open swimming zone with minimal obstructions. Feeding: Primarily carnivore diet — large cichlid pellets, whole prawns, frozen fish, krill. Behaviour: Predatory and territorial; will consume any fish small enough to fit in its mouth. Compatibility: Large hap-only tanks; absolutely not suitable with small cichlids or community fish.
Buy Modest Hap from FinsHQ shops
Shops currently listing this species with stock available
Sell Modest Hap in your shop?
Join aquarium shops already using FinsHQ. Get a beautiful webshop, mobile app, and inventory management — built for aquatic retailers.
Start your free store