Deepwater hap - Placidochromis electra
Scientific name: Placidochromis electra
Common name: Deepwater hap
Family: Cichlidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 12 cm (3.94 - 4.72 inch)
014
Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 8 - 20°N (142.86 - 357.14ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: Africa
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller
Usual place in the tank: Middle levels
Origin
Placidochromis electra is native to the deep, rocky areas of Lake Malawi in East Africa. Lake Malawi is one of the largest and deepest freshwater lakes in the world, characterized by its clear, mineral-rich waters and stable temperatures. The water in Lake Malawi is slightly alkaline, with a pH typically ranging between 7.8 and 8.6, and a hardness (dGH) between 6 and 10°N. The lake’s rocky habitat provides plenty of hiding places for fish like the Deepwater Hap, and sandy areas offer them the opportunity to sift through the substrate in search of food. In the wild, these fish live at depths where the water is cooler and the light is dim, which can influence their color and behavior in the aquarium.
Lifespan
With proper care, Placidochromis electra can live for approximately 8 years in captivity. To ensure they reach their full lifespan, it is crucial to maintain stable water parameters, provide a suitable diet, and offer a stress-free environment.
Short description
Deepwater haps are peaceful cichlids that, despite their size, tend to be less aggressive than other cichlids from Lake Malawi. These fish thrive in tanks where they are kept with other similarly sized, peaceful species. They should not be housed with small or highly aggressive tankmates. Ideal tankmates for Deepwater haps include:
Care and Habitat Setup
In the aquarium, Deepwater haps require an environment that mimics the rocky, sandy habitats of Lake Malawi. A tank of at least 200-250 liters is necessary for a small group of these fish, but larger tanks are preferable to maintain stable water parameters and provide enough swimming space.
The substrate should be fine sand, as these fish enjoy sifting through the sand in search of food. Rocks and caves should be arranged to create hiding places, which will help reduce stress and establish territories. Avoid sharp-edged decorations, as they can damage the fish’s delicate fins.
The water temperature should be maintained between 23-26°C (73.4-78.8°F) with a pH of 7-8. Stability is key, so invest in a high-quality filtration system to ensure water quality remains consistent. Perform regular water changes to maintain optimal conditions, as fluctuations in water parameters can lead to stress or illness.
Food and Feeding
Placidochromis electra is an opportunistic feeder in the wild, foraging for invertebrates and plant matter in the sand. In the aquarium, they will readily accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia to maintain their vibrant coloration and health. Feed them in small portions two or three times a day, ensuring they only eat what they can consume in a few minutes. Overfeeding can lead to digestive problems like bloat, so it’s essential to avoid feeding excess amounts.
Sexing
Male Deepwater haps are generally larger than females and develop more intense coloration, especially during breeding periods. Males will display a bright yellow band on their dorsal fins, and they may exhibit a darker horizontal stripe running through the eye. These color differences become more apparent as the fish mature. Females, on the other hand, tend to be slightly smaller and less colorful, often displaying a more muted appearance.
Breeding
Like many cichlids from Lake Malawi, Placidochromis electra are maternal mouthbrooders. The breeding process starts when the male digs a spawning pit or clears a flat area on a rock. He will then court the female by performing displays around the breeding site, often intensifying his colors to attract her. Once the female lays the eggs, she picks them up into her mouth, where the male fertilizes them. The female will carry the fertilized eggs in her mouth for 2-3 weeks, during which time she will not eat. The fry are released when they are ready to swim and can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp or specially formulated fry food.
To encourage breeding, maintain slightly cooler water temperatures and perform regular water changes. It’s also advisable to provide a peaceful, stress-free environment with plenty of hiding spaces to support the female during the incubation period. Once the fry are free-swimming, they can be separated from the adults to prevent accidental predation.
Tank Setup and Plants
Deepwater haps thrive in tanks that mimic their natural environment. In addition to the sandy substrate and rocky decorations, incorporating plants that can tolerate the alkaline water conditions of Lake Malawi can enhance the tank’s natural look. Here are a few suitable plant species:
- Ammania gracilis
- Ammania senegalensis
- Anubias afzelii
- Anubias barteri
- Anubias barteri "Caladiifolia" '1705'
Ensure that plants are securely anchored to rocks or the substrate to prevent uprooting by the fish’s digging behavior. Plants can also provide additional hiding spaces for fry or more timid species in the tank. Regular lighting and occasional fertilization can help these plants thrive in alkaline water conditions.
Pictures
Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.