Haplochromis phenochilus

Scientific name: Haplochromis phenochilus

Common name: N/A

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 14 - 17 cm (5.51 - 6.69 inch)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8.1

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 23°N (178.57 - 410.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 26 °C (71.6 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Haplochromis can be fed on pellets or quality flake but this should be given very sparingly to prevent the fish from bloating. They much prefer live or frozen foods like mysis, brine shrimp and blood worms.

Origin

Africa; Haplochromis phenochilus are endemic to Lake Malawi.

Sexing

The males tend o be slightly larger than the females and will display a much brighter colouration.

Breeding

Haplochromis are mouth brooders, the female will gather the eggs after fertilisation and mouth brood them for 2-3 weeks. After this she will release the fry but gather them back at any sign of danger. The fry can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp when they are released.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Haplochromis phenochilus is 5-8 years.

Short description

It is best to keep one male in the tank with several females; this will reduce aggression being targeted to one fish. Add plenty of rock work to provide hiding places, and perform regular water changes. Swimming spaces should also be provided at the front of the tank.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.