Venustus Hap

Nimbochromis venustus is a large piscivorous haplochromine widespread throughout Lake Malawi. Juveniles and females display a brown blotched pattern used as camouflage, while males develop spectacular electric blue heads and yellow-gold flanks over this pattern. It is a skilled ambush predator and one of the most popular large Malawi haps in the hobby.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, hard alkaline; strong filtration needed for large fish. Tank: 400L minimum; open sandy areas and rock structures. Feeding: High-protein diet: pellets, silversides, krill, frozen fish. Behaviour: Piscivorous ambush predator; do not keep with fish it can engulf. Compatibility: With large non-aggressive haps only; avoid small fish entirely.