Electric Blue Cichlid - 4"

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Sciaenochromis fryeri
• Common Name: Electric Blue Cichlid (also called Electric Blue Hap)
• Adult Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm), males larger and more colorful than females
• Life Expectancy: 7–10 years with proper care
• Habitat: Native to Lake Malawi, Africa; found in rocky areas and open waters, especially near intermediate zones where rock meets sand

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (due to size and activity level; also allows space for tank mates)
• Ideal Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Water Hardness: 10–20 dGH
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; males are territorial, especially during breeding. Best kept with other robust Lake Malawi cichlids (like Haps and Peacocks). Avoid similar-looking tank mates to reduce aggression.

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
  • Prefers a carnivore-leaning diet: high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, krill, and mysis shrimp
  • Should be supplemented with some vegetable matter (e.g., spirulina) to aid digestion
  • Avoid overfeeding protein to reduce risk of Malawi bloat

Appearance

• Males are a vivid, metallic electric blue with a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body
• Females are more subdued in coloration, often silver or greyish-blue
• Long, flowing dorsal and anal fins with occasional white edging in males

Distinctive Features

• Known for its intense electric blue coloration—one of the most eye-catching Malawi Haps
• Exhibits sexual dimorphism: males are brightly colored while females remain drab
• Aggressive displays include flaring fins and color intensification
• Mouthbrooder: females incubate eggs and fry in their mouths for several weeks
• Fast swimmer and active—requires plenty of open swimming space and some rocks or caves for retreat