malawi

Cynotilapia sp. Hara Gallireya Reef F1

🐟 Cynotilapia sp. “Hara” – Gallireya Reef
📏 Size

Adult size: 8–10 cm (3–4 inches)

Males are slightly larger and much more intensely colored

Females are smaller and usually duller (grey, brown, or pale blue)

🌍 Occurrence (Natural Origin)

Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa

The name “Hara” refers to a specific local population

Found around Gallireya Reef, a rocky reef system in Lake Malawi

Inhabits shallow, rocky shoreline zones, typical of Mbuna habitats

Strongly associated with rock surfaces and crevices

This is a true locality fish, not a hybrid or aquarium strain.

🎨 Appearance

Adult males typically show:

Intense blue body

Dark vertical barring

Bright yellow to orange edging on dorsal and anal fins (varies by dominance)

Females and juveniles are more cryptic, helping them avoid aggression

🍽️ Diet (Preferred Food)

In the wild:

Primarily aufwuchs feeders

Grazes on algae, diatoms, and tiny invertebrates growing on rocks

In the aquarium:

High-quality spirulina-based flakes or pellets

Vegetable-rich Malawi cichlid foods

Occasional protein supplements such as:

Brine shrimp

Daphnia

⚠️ Avoid heavy animal-protein foods (e.g. beef heart, excessive bloodworms), as Mbuna are prone to digestive problems when fed incorrectly.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

Typical Mbuna behavior:

Active

Territorial

Can be aggressive, especially males toward other males

Best kept:

In species-only tanks, or

With other robust Mbuna of similar aggression

Keeping 1 male with several females helps reduce stress and fighting

🏞️ Preferred Aquarium Conditions

pH: 7.8–8.6

Hardness: Moderate to hard

Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)

Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

Décor: Heavy rockwork with many caves and hiding places

Tank size: Minimum ~200 L (55 gallons), larger for groups

🧾 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Cynotilapia sp. “Hara”
Locality Gallireya Reef
Group Mbuna (rock-dwelling cichlid)
Adult Size 8–10 cm (3–4 in)
Origin Lake Malawi
Diet Algae/aufwuchs with light protein
Temperament Territorial, active
Best Setup Rocky Mbuna aquarium