Lethrinops Sp. Gold Harbour Monkey Bay

Lethrinops Sp. Gold Harbour Monkey Bay

Lethrinops sp. "Gold Harbour"

Lethrinops Sp. Gold Harbour Monkey Bay is a peaceful Lake Malawi sand-dwelling hap with subtle body shape and attractive mature male color. It is best for a calmer peacock and hap aquarium where it will not be crowded out by aggressive tank mates.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Monkey Bay area, Lake Malawi.
• Natural Habitat: Sandy habitat.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: 6-7 inches.
• Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males develop the strongest display color, while females and juveniles remain more subdued.
• Body Shape: Slender sand-sifting hap body with a streamlined profile.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Peaceful to mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best kept with peaceful Lake Malawi haps and peacocks, with space for males to display.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 75 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
• Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
• Tank Setup: Use sand substrate, open bottom space, some rockwork for sight breaks, 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 over open sandy areas. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Peaceful to moderately assertive Lake Malawi haps and peacocks.
• Avoid: Aggressive mbuna, large predators, and dominant haps that may outcompete it.