Hongi Cichlid (Labidochromis sp. "Hongi") Care Guide
Labidochromis sp. "Hongi" is a Lake Malawi mbuna with blue males and a red-orange dorsal and head, a semi-aggressive maternal mouthbrooder for hard-water tanks.
Overview
Labidochromis sp. "Hongi" is an undescribed mbuna from the Hongi Island area of Lake Malawi. Males are blue with a bright red-orange dorsal fin and head, while females are silvery. The genus Labidochromis is endemic to Lake Malawi and contains 18 described species plus several undescribed forms; members hybridise readily, so only one species of the genus should be kept per tank.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Labidochromis
- Scientific name: Labidochromis sp. "Hongi"
- Trade names: Red Top Hongi, Kimpuma Red
Habitat
Labidochromis are mbuna, the rock-dwelling cichlids of Lake Malawi; the name means rockfish in the Tonga language. They live among rock piles and along rocky shores. The native lake water is hard and alkaline, and mbuna establish enforced territories within this rocky habitat.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 7.8-8.6
- GH: 10-20 °dGH
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Diet
The species is herbivore-leaning, in line with the algae- and biofilm-grazing habits of mbuna. In the aquarium it should be offered a vegetable-based diet such as spirulina flakes and pellets, fed twice daily; excess animal protein should be avoided.
Compatibility
This is a semi-aggressive, territorial mbuna best kept with other mbuna of similar temperament and with rock-dwelling catfish such as Synodontis petricola and Synodontis multipunctatus in a rocky setup. It should not be combined with soft-water community fish such as discus, angelfish, tetras, Apistogramma or rams.
Breeding
Like other mbuna, Labidochromis sp. "Hongi" is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female carries the fertilised eggs and fry in her mouth. Because Labidochromis species hybridise easily, only one species of the genus should be kept in a tank.