General information – The blue ahli is a beautiful cichlid originated in

Lake Malawi, Africa. This fish became to be one of the most desirable

Haplochromis species all over the world due to its size and its

appearance. Blue hali as its name represents has a beautiful striking

blue color while the females are gray in color.

Common Name - Electric Blue Ahli, Blue Ahli, Blue Hap

Scientific Name - Sciaenochromis ahli, Cyrtocara ahli,

Haplochromis ahli

Family – Cichlidae

Origin - Lake Malawi, Africa

Size – Up to 7 inches

First discovered – Gill, 1862

Nutrition – The blue hap should be fed only with high quality flake and pellets foods algae based. Adding

Spirulina to their diet will enhance their natural blue color. Do not feed them with live foods as these can

bloat and kill the fish.

Behavior - Aggressive

Maintenance and care – Due to their size and aggressiveness the blue hap requires large tank to be kept

in, 80-90 gallon will be sufficient. Provide it with plenty of room to swim rocks can be added although they

usually inhabit the open waters. Hardy, bitter plants (Anubias, Microsorium and Echinodorus) can be used

if live plants are desired. The Electric Blue Ahli should be kept only with fish sharing similar size and

temperament, Blue Dolphin, Borleyi, Malawi eye biter and even peacock cichlids are great tank mates for

this magnificent cichlid. This fish is very sensitive to water pollutants; therefore it is essential to provide

suitable filtration system

Water Parameters - Temperature: 24C- 27C (75F - 79F), pH: 7.8-8.5, dH 10-15

Breeding – In order to breed the Blue Ahli it should be kept in ratio of one male to 2-3 females.

The Blue Hap is mouth brooder; eggs are fertilized and carried by the female. Within 12 to 18 days, fry are

released. The parents will often move the fry once they have hatched to a safer location.