Description
Deep Water Hap – Placidochromis electraÂ
The Deep Water Hap (Placidochromis electra) is a striking cichlid species from Lake Tanganyika, known for its beautiful coloration and peaceful nature. This species is popular among aquarium enthusiasts for its vibrant hues and relatively docile temperament compared to other African cichlids. As part of the Haplochromis group, Placidochromis electra adds a touch of elegance and beauty to both community and species-specific tanks.
Introduction
- Common Name: Deep Water Hap
- Scientific Name: Placidochromis electra
- Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
- Lifespan: 8–10 years
The Deep Water Hap is known for its graceful, elongated body and vibrant colors, with males often showcasing more intense hues than females. Its peaceful disposition makes it suitable for a well-planned aquarium where it can thrive in a community setting.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Habitat: Native to the deep rocky habitats of Lake Tanganyika, Placidochromis electra typically lives at depths ranging from 10 to 30 meters. In the wild, it inhabits areas with rocky substrates, where it can find shelter among crevices and rocks.
- Behavior: The Deep Water Hap is one of the more peaceful cichlids within the Haplochromis family. It is known for its non-aggressive nature, making it an excellent choice for a peaceful African cichlid tank. However, like most African cichlids, males can be territorial, especially during breeding periods. It tends to occupy the middle to upper levels of the tank, often swimming gracefully in open spaces.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A minimum of 75 gallons (280 liters) is recommended for a small group of Deep Water Haps. Larger tanks, such as 90–125 gallons (340–475 liters), are better suited for multiple individuals and community tanks with other cichlid species.
- Substrate: A sandy or fine gravel substrate mimics the lakebed of Lake Tanganyika, where Placidochromis electra naturally resides. Avoid rough or sharp-edged substrates that may damage the cichlids.
- Decor: The tank should feature plenty of rocks, caves, and crevices for shelter and territory establishment. This helps create a more natural environment and provides hiding spots to reduce stress, especially for females during breeding. Plants are not essential but can be included if the tank is large enough, as this species doesn’t typically disturb plants.
- Water Conditions:
- Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
- pH: 8.0–8.5 (alkaline)
- Hardness: 10–18 dGH (moderately hard to hard)
- Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting is acceptable, but it should not be excessive, as the Deep Water Hap prefers subdued lighting similar to its natural habitat at deeper depths.
3. Diet and Feeding
- Diet: Placidochromis electra is an omnivorous cichlid that feeds on a variety of foods in the wild, including algae, small invertebrates, and detritus. In the aquarium, it should be fed a balanced diet of high-quality pellets or flakes designed for African cichlids. Supplement with occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms for added protein.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed the Deep Water Hap once or twice a day, providing only as much food as it can consume in a few minutes. Avoid overfeeding, as excess food can lead to water quality issues.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Tankmates: The Deep Water Hap’s peaceful nature allows it to coexist with a variety of other African cichlids, including:
- Neolamprologus species (e.g., Neolamprologus brichardi or Neolamprologus tretocephalus)
- Cyprichromis leptosoma (Lake Tanganyika rainbowfish)
- Tropheus species (as long as the tank is large enough)
- Altolamprologus species
- Avoid: Avoid housing with overly aggressive species, especially mbuna cichlids (such as Kenyi Cichlids), or large predators that may outcompete or harass the Deep Water Hap.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Territoriality: While Placidochromis electra is generally peaceful, males can become territorial, particularly when breeding. To reduce aggression, ensure that your tank is large enough with plenty of hiding spaces and visual barriers (e.g., rocks or plants) to break line-of-sight between individuals.
- Water Quality: As with all cichlids, water quality is critical for the health of the Deep Water Hap. Regular water changes of 20–30% weekly will help maintain high water quality. A reliable filtration system is essential to handle the bioload of the cichlid tank.
- Breeding: The Deep Water Hap is a substrate spawner and tends to breed in rocky crevices. Males court females by displaying their bright colors, and once the female is ready, she will lay eggs, which the male fertilizes. The female will typically incubate the eggs in her mouth (buccal cavity) until they hatch.
Conclusion
The Deep Water Hap (Placidochromis electra) is a beautiful and peaceful cichlid that can thrive in a well-maintained African cichlid tank. With its striking coloration, relatively calm temperament, and compatibility with other cichlid species, it is an excellent choice for hobbyists who want to create a peaceful, community-style aquarium with Lake Tanganyika cichlids. By providing a spacious tank, proper diet, and suitable tankmates, you can enjoy the elegance and charm of this magnificent species for many years.
