Notogatus

Notogatus is a Ron’s Cichlids-created predator-hap strain from a Strigatus male crossed to a Buccochromis nototaenia female. It should be housed like a large Malawi hap, with long swimming space and tank mates that will not be swallowed.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Ron’s Cichlids-created hybrid strain.
• Natural Habitat: Captive-bred strain from Lake Malawi hap/predator-hap stock; provide sand, open water, and stable cover.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: 9-14 inches.
• Coloration: Males develop the strongest display with maturity; juveniles and females are more subdued.
• Body Shape: Large predator-hap body suited for open swimming.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best with large Malawi haps and robust peacocks in a spacious aquarium.

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: Use a broad sand bed, long open swimming lanes, limited stable rockwork, and very strong filtration.

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: Females mouthbrood eggs and fry. This hybrid should be kept separate from pure-species breeding projects.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Large Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks too large to be viewed as food.
• Avoid: Small fish, delicate tank mates, aggressive mbuna, and undersized aquariums.