White Top Hara Cynotilapia sp. "Hara" (Gallireya Reef form) White Top Hara is a Lake Malawi mbuna commonly treated in the hobby as Cynotilapia sp. "Hara", a Gallireya Reef form known for active rock-dwelling behavior and crisp white-top male display. It is best kept with compatible mbuna in a rock-heavy, hard-water aquarium. Origin and Habitat Native Region: Gallireya Reef, Lake Malawi trade form. Natural Habitat: Cave-dwelling mbuna in rocky habitat. Physical Characteristics Size: Up to about 6 inches. Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males show the strongest white-top display, while females and juveniles are generally more subdued. Body Shape: Compact mbuna body built for active movement around rocks and caves. Behavior and Temperament Temperament: Mildly aggressive. Social Behavior: Best kept with compatible Lake Malawi mbuna in a rock-structured aquarium with broken sightlines. Aquarium Care Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended. Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water. Tank Setup: Provide sand or fine substrate, extensive rockwork, caves, sight breaks, and strong filtration. Diet and Feeding Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Mbuna 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 around rock territories and females hold eggs and fry in the mouth. Fry benefit from dense rock cover or a separate grow-out setup. Tank Mates Compatible With: Other compatible Lake Malawi mbuna and sturdy African cichlids of similar size and temperament. Avoid: Tiny fish, delicate community fish, and highly aggressive mbuna in cramped tanks.
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