Labidochromis sp. “Hongi” (also known as Hongi Cichlid, Red Top Hongi, or Kimpuma) is a popular Mbuna cichlid from Lake Malawi. It is prized for its striking colours—males display a vibrant powder-blue to purplish body with dark vertical bars and a fiery orange-red dorsal fin and head. Females are generally duller (brownish-silver or pale lilac) but attractive in groups. Moderate — ideal for intermediate keepers familiar with Mbuna. Originating from rocky shores around Hongi Island and nearby areas in Lake Malawi. More tolerant than many other Mbuna.TANK SET UP: Minimum Tank Size 120-200 litres (120 cm length) for a small harem (1 male 3-4 females). Larger (300 litres) is strongly recommended for mixed Mbuna communities or to reduce aggression. Use sand or fine gravel as substrate. Decorate heavily with rockwork, caves, crevices, and sight barriers. Stack rocks securely. Open sandy areas for displaying. Avoid overly dense planting — Mbuna may nibble plants; use hardy options like Anubias if desired.TANK MATE: Other similarly sized, moderately aggressive Mbuna (e.g., Yellow Labs, Red Zebras, Acei, Electric Blue Johanni, some Peacocks). Some compatibility with peaceful Haps or Frontosa in larger setups.FILTRATION: Strong filtration (turnover of 8 to 10 times) with good biological capacity. Moderate water movement mimics lake conditions.MAINTENANCE: Ammonia/Nitrite 0 ppm; Nitrates <30-50 ppm. Perform 20-30% weekly water changes.LIGHTING: Moderate to bright to encourage algae growth (their natural food source).FEEDING: High-quality spirulina flakes/pellets, Mbuna-specific pellets, algae wafers. Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), occasional frozen foods like mysis, brine shrimp, or cyclops (1-2x/week). Avoid high-fat/protein foods like bloodworms or tubifex long-term to prevent bloat. Feed 2-3 small meals daily.
