Labidochromis Hongi Sweden Malawi African Cichlid Small 2 Inches

Overview

The Hongi Sweden is a line-bred form of the Hongi mbuna, selected for a deeper, more saturated blue body, bolder black barring and an intense orange crown and dorsal in males. Females are a softer blue-grey. The wild species comes from the Tanzanian coast of Lake Malawi, and it suits keepers with an established hard-water cichlid tank.

• Adult Size: Around 12 cm (5 in); females nearer 9 cm
• Lifespan: 8–10 years

Origin

• Native to: Lake Malawi, Tanzanian coast; Sweden strain is tank-bred
• Habitat: Shallow rocky shores to about 10 metres depth

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, mainly vegetable and small invertebrates
• Preferred Foods: Spirulina flakes, cichlid pellets, blanched spinach, brine shrimp, daphnia, mysis
• Feeding Habits: Two small feeds daily; limit bloodworm and fatty foods

Tank Mates

• Best with: Similar-sized mbuna such as Yellow Labs, Pseudotropheus, Aulonocara in large tanks
• Avoid: Very large aggressive mbuna, soft-water fish, other Hongi colour forms

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Mildly aggressive for a mbuna
• Territoriality: Dominant male defends a cave firmly; others school loosely

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Challenges: Only one male shows full colour; needs stable hard water and rockwork

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, hard and alkaline
• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
• pH: 7.5–8.6
• Hardness: 10–25 dGH
• Flow: Moderate, well oxygenated
• Tank Size: Minimum 200 litres for one male with three or more females

Final Notes

The Sweden strain was developed in captivity from wild Hongi, so keep it away from Red Top and other locality forms to preserve the line. Young fish are plain; the dominant male colours up as the pecking order settles, so buy a group. They are maternal mouthbrooders, breeding readily in a harem with plenty of caves. Avoid soft, acidic water and keep parameters steady, and this selected form rewards you with exceptional colour.