Modestus Hap (Stigmatochromis modestus) Care Guide

Predatory hap from Lake Malawi reaching 22 cm with black-spotted silver body and bluish head in dominant males. Stalking predator — keep with larger haps in 500 L+ tanks.

Overview

Stigmatochromis modestus is a species in the family Cichlidae. Predatory hap from Lake Malawi reaching 22 cm with black-spotted silver body and bluish head in dominant males. Stalking predator — keep with larger haps in 500 L+ tanks.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Stigmatochromis
Scientific name: Stigmatochromis modestus
Origin: Africa, Lake Malawi

Habitat

Endemic to Lake Malawi, inhabiting intermediate and sandy zones. A predatory hap that feeds on smaller fishes. A maternal mouthbrooder; males develop blue nuptial colouration during breeding.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 500 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 7.8-8.6
GH: 10-20 °dGH
Adult size: 18-22 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: advanced

Diet

Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Large hap species
Avoid with: Mbuna, Tropheus, Discus, Apistogramma, Tetras, Small fish under 8cm

Breeding

Breeding strategy: mouthbrooder
Breeding difficulty: intermediate