Otopharynx Auromarginatus Mara Mala Point
Otopharynx auromarginatus
Otopharynx Auromarginatus Mara Mala Point is a very rare Lake Malawi hap with a generally peaceful to mildly aggressive temperament. It is best kept in a spacious peacock and hap aquarium with stable hard water and compatible tank mates.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: 7-8 inches.
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Coloration: Mature males develop the strongest display color; females and juveniles are more subdued.
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Body Shape: Medium-large hap body with an active swimming profile.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Mala (Mara) Point (mapped as Mala Point) is in central Lake Malawi on the Mozambican side of the lake, close to Nkwichi Lodge, Namisse, and Kanjindo Rocks.
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Natural Habitat: Rock-sand interface; usually recorded at depths of about 33 ft.
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Distribution: Mala Point and Cobwé in Lake Malawi. Sexual dimorphism: Females show three large blotches on the flanks and caudal peduncle. Diet: Females.
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Same-Locality Cichlids: Other cichlids recorded from Mala Point include Aulonocara sp. 'chitande type north' Mala (Mara) Point, Chindongo socolofi 'Mala Point', Copadichromis borleyi 'Mala Point', and Copadichromis melas 'Mala Point'.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: More peaceful to mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best kept with peaceful to moderately assertive Lake Malawi haps and peacocks.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 75 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
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Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
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Tank Setup: Provide sand, open swimming room, rockwork for cover and sight breaks, and strong filtration.
Diet and Feeding
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Males display to females and may defend preferred areas. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Peaceful to moderately assertive Lake Malawi haps and peacocks.
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Avoid: Very aggressive mbuna, large predators, and small community fish.
