Placidochromis Jalo Reef Placidochromis sp. "Jalo" Placidochromis Jalo Reef is a Lake Malawi hap from the Jalo Reef area, with a manageable adult size and a good fit for mixed peacock and hap aquariums. It benefits from open substrate, stable water, and tank mates with a similar temperament. Physical Characteristics Size: 6-8 inches. Coloration: Mature males develop stronger adult display coloration; females and juveniles are more muted. Body Shape: Medium to larger hap body with a laterally compressed profile. Origin and Habitat Native Region: Jalo Reef is in central Lake Malawi along the western side of the lake, close to Kaombe River, Kapeta, and Sungu Spit. Natural Habitat: Transition zone and sediment-rich rocky habitat at depths between 10 and 66 ft. Distribution: Endemic to Jalo Reef on the southwestern coast of Lake Malawi. Same-Locality Cichlids: Other cichlids recorded from Jalo Reef include Cynotilapia zebroides 'Jalo Reef', 'Hemitaeniochromis' sp. 'spilopterus jalo' Jalo Reef, Aulonocara sp. 'jalo' Jalo Reef, and Chindongo sp. 'elongatus mbenji brown' Jalo Reef. Behavior and Temperament Temperament: Mildly aggressive. Social Behavior: Works well with similar-sized Lake Malawi haps and peacocks in a properly stocked aquarium. Aquarium Care Tank Size: A 75 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended. Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water. Tank Setup: Provide sand, open swimming space, and rockwork for cover and sight breaks. Keep filtration strong and water conditions stable. 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 hold eggs and fry in the mouth. Fry should be protected after release if you want better survival. Tank Mates Compatible With: Similar-sized Lake Malawi haps and sturdy peacocks. Avoid: Small fish, timid community fish, and overly aggressive cichlids that may dominate feeding or space.
