African Cichlid | Hap Cherry Red (Haplochromine Cichlid)
The Hap Cherry Red is a striking African haplochromine cichlid prized for its rich cherry-red to deep crimson coloration, especially in dominant males. Originating from Lake Malawi, this Hap adds bold color and confident presence to African cichlid community tanks.
Like most haps, Cherry Reds are open-water swimmers that thrive in larger aquariums with rockwork for structure and territory. Their coloration intensifies with proper diet, water quality, and social hierarchy.
Key Characteristics
Vibrant cherry-red coloration
Classic Lake Malawi hap cichlid
Active open-water swimmer
Strong centerpiece fish
Color improves with maturity and dominance
Care Requirements
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Adult Size: ~68 inches
- Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum
- Temperature: 7682°F
- pH: 7.88.6
- Diet: Omnivore (high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen foods)
🐟 Best kept with other similarly sized haps and peacocks.
Tank Setup Recommendations
- Open swimming space
- Rockwork for territories
- Strong filtration and water movement
- Sand or fine gravel substrate
- Stable, alkaline water
💡 Avoid overcrowding with smaller or timid species.
Tank Compatibility
Good Tankmates:
- Other haps
- Peacock cichlids
- Larger African cichlids
- Synodontis catfish
Avoid:
- Mbuna (too aggressive/territorial)
- Small community fish
- Shrimp and snails
Color & Behavior Notes
- Males show the brightest red coloration
- Females and juveniles are more subdued
- Color intensifies with proper diet and reduced stress
Ideal For
- Lake Malawi aquariums
- Hap & peacock cichlid communities
- Large freshwater display tanks
- Hobbyists wanting bold red coloration
Product Details
- Common Name: Hap Cherry Red
- Group: African Haplochromine Cichlid
- Origin: Lake Malawi
- Aquarium Type: Freshwater
- Diet: Omnivore
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
FAQs Hap Cherry Red
Q: Is Hap Cherry Red aggressive?
A: Semi-aggressive, especially malesbest kept with similar-sized cichlids.
Q: Does it get along with peacocks?
A: Yes, they are commonly housed together in Malawi tanks.
Q: How big do they get?
A: Typically 68 inches as adults.
Q: Is this fish beginner-friendly?
A: Best for intermediate aquarists due to size and aggression.
Q: Will color fade?
A: Poor diet or stress can dull colorquality food and stable water are key.
Explore More Aquarium Products:
Out of stock
Couldn't load pickup availability
