Mylochromis Hai Reef
Mylochromis sp. "Hai Reef"
Mylochromis Hai Reef is a very rare Lake Malawi hap with a larger, athletic body and a more measured temperament than many predators. It is best for spacious hap aquariums where sand, open water, and stable hard-water conditions are provided.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: 8-10 inches.
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Coloration: Males develop the strongest display color with maturity; females and juveniles are more subdued.
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Body Shape: Large, streamlined hap body with a strong head profile and active swimming build.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Hai (Chimate) Reef (mapped as Hai Reef) is in northern Lake Malawi on the Mozambican side of the lake, close to Chimate, Ngombo, and Undu Reef.
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Natural Habitat: This Lake Malawi reef or plateau points to a habitat shaped by rock structure, sand-rock edges, and nearby open water.
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Same-Locality Cichlids: Other cichlids recorded from Hai Reef include Aulonocara saulosi 'Hai Reef', Aulonocara sp. 'chitande type mozambique' Hai Reef, Aulonocara sp. 'lwanda' Hai Reef, and Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Hai Reef' Auloocara Blue Neon.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: More peaceful for a large hap, with mild aggression as males mature.
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Social Behavior: Best with similarly sized peacocks and haps that will not bully or be swallowed.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 125 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended for adults.
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Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
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Tank Setup: Provide a sand bed, open swimming space, limited stable rockwork, and strong filtration.
Diet and Feeding
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Males display as they mature and females hold eggs and fry in the mouth. Fry should be protected after release.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks of similar size.
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Avoid: Small fish, overly aggressive mbuna, and cramped aquariums.
