Buccochromis Lepturus Green

Buccochromis lepturus

Buccochromis Lepturus Green is a rare large Malawi hap that takes patience: males can take a long time to mature and usually do not reach full color until they are large. Give this fish space early so it can grow into its adult presence.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: 11-16 inches.
• Coloration: Males develop green display color slowly and often do not show full color until around 9 inches or larger.
• Body Shape: Large, elongated hap body with strong open-water swimming ability.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Lake Malawi, with recorded localities including Kambiri Point and Nkhata Bay.
• Natural Habitat: Juveniles occur in shallow nearshore waters, while adults inhabit deeper sandy areas, typically at depths of about 49-98 ft.

Behavior and Temperament

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

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 180 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended for adults.
• Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
• Tank Setup: Use a broad sand bed, open swimming lanes, stable rock structure, 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: Mature males display and females mouthbrood eggs and fry. Fry should be separated or protected after release.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Large Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks that are too large to be eaten.
• Avoid: Small fish, aggressive mbuna, and undersized aquariums.