Description
The Venustus Hap is a popular Cichlid in the aquarium hobby for its interesting behaviour and colour patterns. Like many Cichlid species, it is native to the shallow waters and shorelines of Lake Malawi in Africa. The habitat in Lake Malawi includes sandy substrates and a lot of rocks with little to no vegetation. When setting up a tank, a Lake Malawi set-up is the best. Decorate the aquarium with piles of rocks arranged to form caves, large areas of open water for swimming and preferably a sandy substrate.
They are aggressively predatory towards smaller Cichlid species but is peaceful when with species too big to be considered food. It is a loner in nature and males can be aggressive towards each other. Due to its large size, providing it with a large swimming space is recommended to prevent aggression towards other tankmates. When comfortable, you will be rewarded with amazing displays of colour and intelligent behaviours.
Venustus Haps are omnivorous but are exclusive piscivores (eats other fish) in nature. Giving a high protein diet of live and frozen foods like shrimps, chopped fish, and pellets will do. Avoid ‘feeder fish’ as it can initiate hunting instincts and cause more aggression.
NOTE: Cichlids live in very different environmental conditions compared to other community fish in the hobby and should have their own dedicated ‘Lake Malawi’ set-up. Their aggression should also be taken into account when mixing with other fish.
Please visit our store if you wish to get this fish. Contact us at 03-7733 7469 for queries on types and availability.
* Available in-store only