African Cichlid – Red Top Hongi Cichlid – 4cm

Red Top Hongi Cichlid: A Vibrant and Hardy Mbuna

The Red Top Hongi Cichlid (Labidochromis sp. “Hongi”) is a striking Mbuna from the rocky habitats of Lake Malawi. With its bold blue body and vivid red-orange dorsal fin, this cichlid is a favourite among aquarists looking to add colour and energy to their aquarium. Its manageable size and hardy nature make it an excellent choice for Mbuna enthusiasts.

Size and Lifespan

Red Top Hongi Cichlids grow up to 10–12 cm in length. With proper care and a stable environment, they can live for 5–8 years, providing long-lasting vibrancy and activity in your tank.

Tank Size and Requirements

A tank of at least 150 liters is recommended to provide ample space for swimming and territorial behaviour. These cichlids thrive in water temperatures of 24°C–28°C, with a pH range of 7.8–8.6, replicating the alkaline conditions of Lake Malawi. Decorate the tank with plenty of rocks and caves to create hiding spots and territorial boundaries. A sandy substrate further enhances their comfort.

Tank Mates

Red Top Hongi Cichlids are semi-aggressive, particularly when establishing territories. They pair well with other robust Mbuna species such as Yellow Labs, Rusty Cichlids, and Red Zebras. Avoid housing them with overly timid or much larger, aggressive fish. Maintaining a balanced ratio of one male to several females can help reduce aggression.

Feeding

These omnivorous cichlids thrive on a varied diet. Provide high-quality Mbuna-specific pellets or flakes as their primary food. Supplement their diet with spirulina flakes, blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini, and occasional live or frozen treats like brine shrimp or daphnia. A balanced diet supports their vibrant colours and overall health.

Breeding Red Top Hongi Cichlids

Breeding is relatively easy with these cichlids. Males attract females by showcasing their vivid colours and establishing territories. Females are mouthbrooders, carrying eggs and fry in their mouths for 18–21 days. To encourage breeding, provide flat rocks or caves for spawning. Consider separating fry into a grow-out tank for higher survival rates and feed them finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp for optimal growth.

FAQs

How big do Red Top Hongi Cichlids get?
They grow up to 10–12 cm, making them ideal for medium-sized aquariums.

Are they aggressive?
They are semi-aggressive, particularly when establishing territories or breeding.

What tank mates are suitable?
Other Mbuna species like Yellow Labs, Rusty Cichlids, and Red Zebras make great companions.

What do they eat?
They thrive on Mbuna pellets, spirulina flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp.

How do they breed?
Females are mouthbrooders, carrying eggs and fry for 18–21 days.

Species Overview

• Species: Labidochromis sp. “Hongi”
• Common Name: Red Top Hongi Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 12 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 150 liters