Otopharynx lithobates

Otopharynx lithobates is a medium-sized Malawi hap known in the hobby mostly by its local form called "Z-Rock". The dark blue body of mature males is adorned with a yellow or white stripe that starts at the forehead and runs along the dorsal fin. Females are silvery gray-brown and plain. Its temperament is mild; it belongs in the same aquarium as calm haps, not with aggressive mbuna.

• At least 400 liters and 150 cm in length for a group.
• Fine sand substrate, rock groups along the sides and a wide open swimming area.
• Hard and alkaline water (pH 7.8–8.5); aragonite substrate or Malawi salt.
• Strong filtration and weekly 30–50% water changes.

Omnivorous; in the wild it picks small invertebrates and algae from rock and sand. A quality cichlid pellet and a spirulina-based food are given in rotation; mysis and brine shrimp can be added.

Males defend a small area during courtship; toward other species they are generally measured. It may eat small fish that fit in its mouth.

Good companions: Aulonocara species, Copadichromis borleyi, red empress, Placidochromis electra, blue dolphin cichlid, Synodontis catfish suited to hard water.

Avoid: aggressive mbuna, large predators, community fish, shrimp and snails.