Description
White Top Hara Cichlid – Cynotilapia afraÂ
The White Top Hara Cichlid (Cynotilapia afra) is an elegant and colorful species native to Lake Malawi, known for its distinct white-tipped dorsal fin and vibrant coloration. This mbuna cichlid is an excellent choice for hobbyists who want a striking yet peaceful species for a mixed African cichlid tank. With the right care and a well-maintained tank, the White Top Hara will thrive, adding beauty and energy to any aquarium setup.
Introduction
- Common Name: White Top Hara Cichlid
- Scientific Name: Cynotilapia afra
- Size: 4–5 inches (10–13 cm)
- Lifespan: 6–8 years
The White Top Hara Cichlid is known for its small size, making it ideal for medium-sized aquariums. Males display a vibrant blue coloration with white-tipped fins, while females are typically more subdued in color. This species is relatively peaceful compared to other mbuna species, making it an excellent choice for a community tank with other non-aggressive cichlids.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Habitat: In the wild, the White Top Hara is found in the rocky areas of Lake Malawi. They prefer areas with plenty of hiding spots, such as crevices and caves formed by large rocks. The species feeds primarily on algae, which it scrapes from rocks, as well as small invertebrates.
- Behavior: The White Top Hara is generally peaceful, though males can become territorial, especially during breeding. They are active swimmers and enjoy grazing on algae. Males often display more intense coloration during courtship and will fiercely defend their territory when competing for females. Overall, they are less aggressive than other mbuna cichlids, making them more suitable for community tanks.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons (210 liters) is recommended for a small group of White Top Hara Cichlids. For larger groups, consider a 75-gallon (280 liters) tank or larger.
- Substrate: A fine sand or gravel substrate is ideal for this species, simulating the rocky bottom of Lake Malawi. Sand is preferred, as it allows for better waste management and is more natural for the fish.
- Decor: Provide plenty of rocks, caves, and crevices to create territories for each fish. Rocks should be arranged in a way that creates hiding spots and areas for breeding. A few open spaces will also allow the fish to swim freely.
- Water Conditions:
- Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
- pH: 7.5–8.5 (alkaline)
- Hardness: 10–20 dGH (moderately hard to hard)
- Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting will bring out the best in their coloration, but avoid overly bright lights that may stress the fish.
3. Diet and Feeding
- Diet: The White Top Hara is primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae in the wild. In the aquarium, they can be fed a balanced diet of high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes that are rich in spirulina and other plant matter. You can supplement their diet with algae wafers, blanched vegetables (such as zucchini or spinach), and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia for protein.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed once or twice a day, providing only what the fish can consume in a few minutes. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues and health problems, so it is important to monitor their intake.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Tankmates: The White Top Hara is a peaceful mbuna species, making it suitable for a community tank with other similarly sized, non-aggressive cichlids. Ideal tankmates include:
- Other species of Cynotilapia, such as Cynotilapia afra (other variants)
- Labidochromis caeruleus (Electric Yellow Lab)
- Pseudotropheus sp. (such as Pseudotropheus socolofi)
- Neolamprologus species (e.g., Neolamprologus brichardi)
- Avoid: Avoid keeping with overly aggressive cichlids such as Kenyi Cichlids (Maylandia lombardoi) or large predators like Frontosas (Cyphotilapia frontosa) that may harass or harm the White Top Hara. Additionally, be cautious when housing with other mbunas that can be too territorial or dominant.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Aggression: While the White Top Hara is generally peaceful, males can be territorial, especially during breeding times. If aggression becomes an issue, consider adding more females to reduce male competition or provide more hiding spaces and visual barriers within the tank.
- Water Quality: As with all African cichlids, maintaining good water quality is essential for the health of the White Top Hara. Regular water changes of 20–30% weekly will help keep nitrate levels low and maintain stable water conditions. A powerful filtration system is also recommended to handle the bioload of multiple cichlids.
- Breeding: The White Top Hara is a mouthbrooder, meaning that the female carries the fertilized eggs in her mouth until they hatch. After hatching, the female will continue to protect the fry in her mouth for several weeks before releasing them into the tank. To help protect the fry from aggressive tankmates, consider adding additional hiding spots or using a breeding net.
Conclusion
The White Top Hara Cichlid (Cynotilapia afra) is a striking and peaceful addition to any African cichlid aquarium. Its vibrant coloration and relatively mild temperament make it a fantastic choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. With the right tank setup, a varied diet, and suitable tankmates, the White Top Hara will thrive in your aquarium for years, offering both beauty and dynamic behavior.
