Native Region:

• Line-bred variant of Otopharynx lithobates, originally from Lake Malawi, East Africa

Habitat Type:

• In the wild, O. lithobates inhabits rocky caves and crevices

• The BOD variant is captive-bred, typically in aquaculture facilities

Size:

• Males: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)

• Females: Slightly smaller, around 4–5 inches (10–13 cm)

Coloration:

• Males: Jet-black body with a bright orange dorsal fin; some may exhibit blue highlights

• Females: More subdued coloration, often gray with faint markings

Lifespan:

• Typically 8–10 years with proper care

Temperament:

• Moderately aggressive, especially during breeding

• Less aggressive than many Mbuna species

Social Behavior:

• Best kept in harems (1 male to 3+ females)

• Can coexist with other peaceful to moderately aggressive Haps and Peacocks

Tank Size:

• Minimum 55 gallons for a single male and a few females

• Larger tanks (75+ gallons) recommended for community setups

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 7.8–8.6

• Hardness: 10–20 dGH

Tank Setup:

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

• Decor: Rock formations creating caves and hiding spots

• Lighting: Moderate; enhances coloration

• Filtration: Strong filtration with regular water changes to maintain water quality

Feeding Type: Omnivorous

Best Foods:

• Staple: High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes

• Supplements:

  • Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms

  • Vegetable matter: spirulina flakes, blanched spinach or peas

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed 1–2 times daily in amounts they can consume within a few minutes

Reproductive Behavior:

• Maternal mouthbrooder

• Males display vibrant colors to attract females

• Females incubate eggs in their mouths for 2–3 weeks before releasing free-swimming fry

Breeding Setup:

• Provide flat rocks or cave-like structures for spawning

• Maintain optimal water conditions to encourage breeding

Compatible With:

• Other peaceful to moderately aggressive Haps and Peacocks

• Synodontis catfish, Plecos, or other non-aggressive bottom dwellers

Avoid:

• Highly aggressive Mbuna species

• Small or timid fish that may be bullied

Native Region:

• Line-bred variant of Otopharynx lithobates, originally from Lake Malawi, East Africa

Habitat Type:

• In the wild, O. lithobates inhabits rocky caves and crevices

• The BOD variant is captive-bred, typically in aquaculture facilities

Size:

• Males: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)

• Females: Slightly smaller, around 4–5 inches (10–13 cm)

Coloration:

• Males: Jet-black body with a bright orange dorsal fin; some may exhibit blue highlights

• Females: More subdued coloration, often gray with faint markings

Lifespan:

• Typically 8–10 years with proper care

Temperament:

• Moderately aggressive, especially during breeding

• Less aggressive than many Mbuna species

Social Behavior:

• Best kept in harems (1 male to 3+ females)

• Can coexist with other peaceful to moderately aggressive Haps and Peacocks

Tank Size:

• Minimum 55 gallons for a single male and a few females

• Larger tanks (75+ gallons) recommended for community setups

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 7.8–8.6

• Hardness: 10–20 dGH

Tank Setup:

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

• Decor: Rock formations creating caves and hiding spots

• Lighting: Moderate; enhances coloration

• Filtration: Strong filtration with regular water changes to maintain water quality

Feeding Type: Omnivorous

Best Foods:

• Staple: High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes

• Supplements:

  • Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms

  • Vegetable matter: spirulina flakes, blanched spinach or peas

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed 1–2 times daily in amounts they can consume within a few minutes

Reproductive Behavior:

• Maternal mouthbrooder

• Males display vibrant colors to attract females

• Females incubate eggs in their mouths for 2–3 weeks before releasing free-swimming fry

Breeding Setup:

• Provide flat rocks or cave-like structures for spawning

• Maintain optimal water conditions to encourage breeding

Compatible With:

• Other peaceful to moderately aggressive Haps and Peacocks

• Synodontis catfish, Plecos, or other non-aggressive bottom dwellers

Avoid:

• Highly aggressive Mbuna species

• Small or timid fish that may be bullied