Buccochromis Lepturus Green (Rare)

Buccochromis Lepturus Green

Buccochromis lepturus

Buccochromis Lepturus Green is a rare large Malawi hap that takes patience: males can take a long time to mature and usually do not reach full color until they are large. Give this fish space early so it can grow into its adult presence.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Lake Malawi; green form in the aquarium trade.
• Natural Habitat: Sandy habitat and intermediate areas where large haps cruise and hunt.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: 11-16 inches.
• Coloration: Males develop green display color slowly and often do not show full color until around 9 inches or larger.
• Body Shape: Large, elongated hap body with strong open-water swimming ability.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best with large haps and robust peacocks in a spacious aquarium.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 180 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended for adults.
• Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
• Tank Setup: Use a broad sand bed, open swimming lanes, stable rock structure, and very strong filtration.

Diet and Feeding

• Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Peacock & Hap Adult Food.
• Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food.
• Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
• Breeding Notes: Mature males display and females mouthbrood eggs and fry. Fry should be separated or protected after release.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Large Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks that are too large to be eaten.
• Avoid: Small fish, aggressive mbuna, and undersized aquariums.