Blue Victoria Mouthbrooder (Haplochromis nubilus)

The blue Victoria mouthbrooder (Haplochromis nubilus) is a rather unique African cichlid in regards to its adaptability. While a majority of haps found in Lake Victoria are endemic there, this cichlid can also be found both within the lake and in other surrounding rivers, streams, and lakes like Lake George. This wide range has led to them being less specialized compared to their cousins, so they tolerate a much wider range in water parameter and have a varied diet. Another interesting thing to note is that these fish are on the smaller side, rarely exceed 4 inches in length making them perfect for a tank of smaller Victorian or Malawi species.    Males display a rich black body with vivid, red anal and caudal fins when sparring or courting a female which are usually a pale green, tan , or gray. The males do not display such vibrant color when not in the presence of females so to get the best color out of them, we recommend having a few females for each male if kept in a species only tank.