Oto Heterodon Otopharynx heterodon Oto Heterodon, also noted as a Royal Blue Hap, is a Lake Malawi hap with a more moderate personality than many larger aggressive haps. Its adult color and manageable temperament make it a good candidate for thoughtfully stocked peacock and hap aquariums. Origin and Habitat Native Region: Throughout Lake Malawi. Natural Habitat: Intermediate zone. Physical Characteristics Size: 7-8 inches. Coloration: Mature males can show royal blue coloration; females and juveniles are usually more subdued. Body Shape: Laterally compressed hap body with an active but not overly bulky profile. Behavior and Temperament Temperament: More peaceful than many haps, sometimes mildly aggressive. Social Behavior: Best kept with similarly tempered Lake Malawi haps and peacocks, with enough room for males to establish space. 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 structure. Maintain strong filtration and stable hard, alkaline water. 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: Like other Malawi haps, females hold eggs and fry in the mouth. Fry should be given cover or separated after release for better survival. Tank Mates Compatible With: Peaceful to moderately assertive Lake Malawi haps and peacocks. Avoid: Very aggressive mbuna, small community fish, and tank mates that require soft acidic water.
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