Azure hap - Sciaenochromis fryeri

Scientific name: Sciaenochromis fryeri

Common name: Azure hap

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 13 cm (3.94 - 5.12 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8.3

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 24°N (178.57 - 428.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Origin

The Azure Hap (Sciaenochromis fryeri) is native to the rocky shores of Lake Malawi in Africa. This cichlid species is accustomed to the lake’s hard, alkaline waters, which must be replicated in the aquarium for them to thrive. Their natural environment consists of plenty of rock formations and caves, which they use for shelter and spawning sites.

Tank Requirements

A spacious aquarium of at least 200 liters (53 gallons) is recommended for keeping Azure Haps. The tank should include plenty of rockwork, forming caves and crevices to mimic their natural habitat and provide hiding spots. These structures are particularly important for females to escape from the male's attention, especially during breeding periods. Despite being bottom dwellers, Azure Haps are active swimmers, so open swimming spaces should be incorporated into the tank layout.

Maintain water conditions with a pH range of 7.0-8.3 and a hardness of 10-24°N (178.57-428.57 ppm). The temperature should be kept between 23-26°C (73.4-78.8°F). A good filtration system is necessary to maintain water quality, as these cichlids are sensitive to changes in water parameters. Regular water changes will help keep the water clean and reduce the risk of disease.

Tankmates

Azure Haps are generally peaceful towards their own species but can show aggression towards other cichlids, especially those with similar coloration or size. It is best to house one male with several females to reduce territorial disputes. Suitable tankmates include other non-aggressive Lake Malawi cichlids such as:

• Yellow Lab (Labidochromis caeruleus)
• Lake malawi butterfly cichlid (Aulonocara jacobfreibergi)
• Malawi blue dolphin (Cyrtocara moorii)
• Deepwater hap (Placidochromis electra)

Avoid keeping them with smaller or overly aggressive fish, as they may become targets or perpetrators of aggression. Ensure there is enough space and hiding spots for all tankmates to establish their own territories.

Food and Feeding

Azure Haps are carnivorous and require a high-protein diet. Provide them with a quality cichlid pellet or flake as the staple food, supplemented with treats of live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, krill, or brine shrimp. Feeding them a varied diet will help enhance their vibrant coloration and promote overall health.

Be cautious not to overfeed, as these cichlids are prone to Malawi bloat. It is recommended to feed them once or twice daily, offering an amount they can consume within a few minutes. Remove any uneaten food to maintain water quality and prevent waste buildup.

Sexing

Sexing Azure Haps is relatively straightforward. Mature males are larger and exhibit a striking bright blue coloration, especially during the breeding season. Females, on the other hand, are generally smaller with a duller brownish or silver hue. Males also tend to develop more elongated and pointed fins compared to females.

Breeding

Breeding Azure Haps in captivity can be quite rewarding. The male will select a breeding site, often a pit he digs into the substrate near rocks. During courtship, the female deposits her eggs onto the rock, which the male fertilizes by flicking them with his tail. Once fertilized, the female scoops the eggs into her mouth, where she incubates them for approximately 21-28 days. During this period, the female will refrain from eating to protect the eggs.

After the incubation period, the female releases the fry, which are then ready to be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp. If possible, move the fry to a separate grow-out tank to increase their survival rate. Maintain high water quality and feed them small, frequent meals to support their growth.

Lifespan

The expected lifespan of the Azure Hap is around 10 years when provided with proper care and a well-maintained aquarium environment.

Short Description

The Azure Hap is a visually stunning Lake Malawi cichlid, known for its brilliant blue coloration in males. While they are relatively peaceful among their own kind, they can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards other cichlids. A well-aquascaped tank with plenty of rock formations and swimming space is crucial for their well-being. Given their potential for hybridization, care should be taken when selecting tankmates to avoid crossbreeding.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk. Also thanks to Tamri Shavi.