Lethrinops Albus Kande Lethrinops sp. "Albus" Lethrinops Albus Kande is a peaceful Lake Malawi sand-dwelling hap with subtle beauty and a calmer temperament than many larger Malawi cichlids. It is best kept in a spacious aquarium with sand, stable hard water, and tank mates that will not outcompete it. Origin and Habitat Native Region: Extreme northern Lake Malawi in Tanzania. Natural Habitat: Shallow sandy habitat near rocks. Physical Characteristics Size: 6-7 inches. Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males develop stronger display color, while females and juveniles are more subdued. Body Shape: Slender to medium hap body adapted for life over sandy areas. Behavior and Temperament Temperament: Peaceful, with mildly aggressive conspecific behavior. Social Behavior: Best kept with peaceful Lake Malawi haps, peacocks, and other non-aggressive sand dwellers. 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: Use a sand substrate, open swimming areas, gentle rock structure for cover, and stable 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: Males display over sandy areas and may defend a small breeding site. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release. Tank Mates Compatible With: Peaceful Lake Malawi haps, peacocks, and other sand-dwelling species. Avoid: Aggressive mbuna, large predators, and highly assertive haps that may outcompete them.
