Rostratus × Trout Cross

Rostratus × Trout Cross is a Ron’s Cichlids-created hybrid between Fossorochromis rostratus and Champsochromis caeruleus, also known as Malawi Trout. It is a large, open-water hap-style cross for keepers who want something unusual and have the tank space for a big adult fish.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Ron’s Cichlids accidental aquarium cross between Fossorochromis rostratus and Champsochromis caeruleus.
• Natural Habitat: Captive-bred hybrid; provide the open swimming room, sand, and sturdy structure used for large Lake Malawi haps.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Plan for a very large adult, roughly 11-16 inches.
• Coloration: Males start coloring as they mature; available males may be less colorful than the breeder male until settled and dominant.
• Body Shape: Large, athletic hap body combining rostratus size with the long, predatory Malawi Trout profile.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: More peaceful overall, with mildly aggressive conspecific behavior.
• Social Behavior: Best with large haps and robust peacocks that are too large to be viewed as food.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 180 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended for long-term adult care.
• Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
• Tank Setup: Provide long open swimming lanes, sand, limited stable rockwork, strong filtration, and careful stocking around adult size.

Diet and Feeding

• Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Peacock & Hap Adult Food.
• Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food.
• Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
• Breeding Notes: As a hybrid, this fish is best kept as a display fish. Avoid using it in pure-species breeding projects.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Large Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks with similar temperament and adult size.
• Avoid: Small fish, cramped aquariums, delicate tank mates, and pure-species breeding groups.