Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Peaceful

For a Malawi cichlid, it has an unusually peaceful and social temperament, except during the breeding period when males defend their territory. They are active fish that occupy the middle and upper zones of the tank, requiring plenty of open space to swim freely. They display a well-defined social hierarchy but rarely engage in violent combat or cause injuries.

Diet

Carnivore

This species is a specialized planktivore that feeds in the wild by capturing tiny organisms suspended in the water column. In the aquarium, it must be fed high-quality protein foods, such as frozen mysis, artemia, daphnia, and bloodworms, supplemented by floating or slow-sinking pellets. It is important to avoid overly heavy or fatty foods and to ensure that the food remains suspended, as they rarely feed on the substrate.

Sex ratio

Harem

Harem (1 male for 3-4 females). Keeping multiple males is only possible in immense aquariums; otherwise, the dominant male will keep the others constantly stressed and in their faded juvenile coloration.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

It is recommended to feed them one to two times daily in small portions that the fish can consume entirely in under two minutes. This regimen mimics their natural habit of feeding continuously throughout the day and prevents water pollution. Avoiding overfeeding is crucial for maintaining optimal physical and chemical parameters in the Malawi aquarium.

Bioload

High

High (due to size and protein-rich diet)

Flow

Strong

They prefer a moderate to strong water current that stimulates their active swimming behavior in open waters. Good surface agitation helps maintain high levels of dissolved oxygen, which are essential for the health of Lake Malawi cichlids. The use of powerheads can effectively recreate the currents these fish encounter near lacustrine reefs.

Jump risk

Yes

Like many energetic Lake Malawi cichlids, the redfin hap presents a moderate to high jump risk. Their fast-paced swimming, complex social interactions, and occasional aggressive pursuits can easily cause a fish to break the water's surface. A tightly fitting lid or a durable mesh canopy is absolutely essential for keeping these fish safely inside the tank. Special care should be taken during tank maintenance or when adding new individuals, as startle responses frequently lead to jumping.

Reproduction

Oviparous

These are maternal mouthbrooders typical of Lake Malawi. During breeding, the male attracts the female to a previously cleaned and sheltered spawning site. After fertilization, the female collects the eggs in her mouth, incubating them for approximately 3 to 4 weeks until the fry are fully self-sufficient.

Compatibility & tankmates

Peaceful

This species coexists well with other peaceful and similarly sized cichlids from Lake Malawi, such as Peacocks (Aulonocara) and other Haps (e.g., Cyrtocara moorii). Cohabitation with highly aggressive and territorial Mbuna species must be avoided, as they may bully them and damage their delicate, elongated fins. A careful selection of tankmates ensures a harmonious environment.

Tank level

Top/Middle

The redfin hap is primarily an open-water swimmer that heavily favors the middle to upper levels of the aquarium. Unlike the rock-dwelling Mbuna, this species prefers ample, unobstructed swimming space to cruise and display their vibrant colors. While they will occasionally dive lower to inspect the substrate or seek shelter during disputes, their natural inclination is to remain elevated. Providing tall rock structures that break the line of sight in the midwater zone helps them establish comfortable territories.