Haplochromis "Ruby Green" (Crimson Tide) Care Guide
Haplochromis sp. "Ruby Green", traded as Crimson Tide, is a colourful Lake Victoria-region haplochromine mouthbrooder for hard-water community tanks.
Overview
Haplochromis sp. "Ruby Green", offered in the hobby under the trade name Crimson Tide, is a haplochromine cichlid from the Lake Victoria region of East Africa. Dominant males show a red back, green flanks and a metallic blue head. The genus Haplochromis comprises mouthbrooding cichlids that form part of the extensive species flock of the African Rift lakes.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Haplochromis
- Scientific name: Haplochromis sp. "Ruby Green"
- Common synonyms: Crimson Tide
Habitat
Haplochromis cichlids occur in the East African Rift, especially Lake Victoria. Following the introduction of the Nile perch after 1954, many haplochromine species declined sharply, and a large number are thought to have been lost. Aquarium strains help preserve the diversity of this group.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 7.5-8.5
- GH: 10-20 °dGH
- Adult size: about 10-13 cm
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
Diet
Haplochromis species show varied diets across the genus. This form is an omnivore and accepts quality prepared foods alongside frozen invertebrates. Feeding small amounts twice daily is appropriate.
Compatibility
The fish is semi-aggressive and best kept with other Lake Victoria-region haplochromines of similar vigour, along with Synodontis catfish. Lake Malawi mbuna, Tropheus and soft-water fish such as discus or Apistogramma should be avoided.
Breeding
Like other Haplochromis, this form is a maternal mouthbrooder. The female collects the fertilised eggs and incubates the developing fry in the mouth. Breeding is straightforward when a male is housed with several females.