Mylochromis Gracilis (Very Rare)

Mylochromis Gracilis

Mylochromis spilostichus

Mylochromis Gracilis is a very rare Malawi hap offered here as Makokola Reef stock. It is a larger sand/intermediate-habitat hap that rewards space, stable water, and patient grow-out for mature male presence.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Lake Malawi; Makokola Reef form in the aquarium trade.
• Natural Habitat: Sandy habitat and intermediate areas where larger haps forage and hunt.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: 9-10 inches.
• Coloration: Males develop the strongest display with maturity; females and juveniles remain more subdued.
• Body Shape: Large, streamlined hap body suited for open swimming over sand.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: More peaceful to mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best with similar-size Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 125 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
• Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
• Tank Setup: Provide a broad sand bed, open swimming room, limited stable rockwork, and 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: Males display as they mature and females mouthbrood eggs and fry.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks of similar size.
• Avoid: Small fish, aggressive mbuna, and tanks without enough open swimming room.