Super VC-10 Hap

Description

The Super VC-10 Hap (Placidochromis milomo), commonly known as the Milomo or Haplochromis Milomo, is a striking and powerful cichlid species endemic to Lake Malawi in Africa. This species is renowned for its robust and elongated body, complemented by a vibrant metallic sheen of silver-blue on the males, which intensifies during the breeding season. The Super VC-10’s trademark feature is its distinctive large lips, which give it a bold and aggressive appearance, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes for hunting. These fleshy lips help it scrape algae and invertebrates from rocky crevices, making it a unique predator within its habitat.

Males of this species can grow up to 8-10 inches in length and are known for their territorial behavior, often staking out regions of rocky substrates in the aquarium. Females, typically smaller and less colorful, tend to remain more subdued but play a crucial role in the species’ mouthbrooding reproductive strategy. During breeding, the female will carry the fertilized eggs in her mouth for several weeks, protecting the young until they are ready to fend for themselves.

In the aquarium setting, the Super VC-10 Hap thrives in spacious tanks with a mix of rocky areas and open swimming space. Despite their predatory nature, they can coexist with other large, robust cichlids but require careful monitoring to prevent aggression, especially during breeding periods. Maintaining high water quality and mimicking the water conditions of Lake Malawi, including a pH of 7.8-8.6 and temperatures between 75-82°F, is essential for their health and vibrant coloration.

This species is ideal for experienced aquarists due to its unique appearance, intriguing behavior, and size. Proper care and attention to tankmates, water conditions, and diet (rich in high-protein foods like shrimp, krill, and other small invertebrates) are key to maintaining the health and beauty of the Super VC-10 Hap.