Nyassachromis boadzulu

Nyassachromis boadzulu is an endemic haplochromine from Boadzulu Island in southern Lake Malawi, representing one of the more rarely kept open-water haps in the hobby. Males display a slender, elongated body with a blue-silver sheen and a striking yellow-orange blaze on the upper body and dorsal fin. The combination of streamlined form and vivid colouration makes this species particularly attractive in a large display aquarium.

In the wild, N. boadzulu occupies open-water zones above sandy substrates near the island's rocky shores, feeding on plankton and small invertebrates in the water column. Its island-endemic status means it has a very restricted range, and wild populations are vulnerable to overfishing and sedimentation.

In the aquarium, Nyassachromis boadzulu requires a spacious tank with open swimming areas. It is less aggressive than most haps and can be kept in a mixed Malawi community with peacocks and other open-water species. Tank-bred specimens are relatively rarely available, making acquisition a genuine achievement for dedicated Malawi cichlid hobbyists.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 7.8-8.5, hard alkaline; clean, well-oxygenated water with good circulation. Tank: 300L minimum; elongated aquarium preferred; open swimming space essential for this active mid-water species. Feeding: Mixed diet — frozen artemia and cyclops alongside quality cichlid pellets; plankton-substitute foods. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; clutch of 15-25 eggs; seldom bred in captivity but straightforward when conditioned. Compatibility: Peaceful to semi-aggressive; good community hap; compatible with peacocks and passive mbuna.