Aristochromis christyi — Malawi Hawk Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Lake Malawi, East Africa
Size: 25–30 cm (10–12 inches)
Lifespan: 8–10 years
 
Natural Habitat
Environment: Rocky and open intermediate zones of Lake Malawi
Water Conditions: Clear, oxygen-rich waters with stable parameters
Temperature Range: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
 
Physical Description
Body Shape: Long, laterally compressed body built for speed and ambush hunting
Coloration:
Males: Iridescent blue with red and orange highlights, especially along the dorsal and anal fins
Females: Silver-gray with a darker lateral stripe
Fins: Streamlined, with extended points on dorsal and anal fins in dominant males
 
Aquarium Care
Tank Size: Minimum 150 gallons for adults
Water Parameters:
pH: 7.8–8.6
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
Water Hardness: Hard
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
Décor: Rock formations and open swimming space; caves for retreat
Filtration: Strong, with excellent oxygenation
 
Diet
Type: Carnivorous
Preferred Foods: Live or frozen foods (krill, shrimp, silversides), high-protein cichlid pellets
Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily
 
Behavior & Tank Mates
Temperament:
Predatory and territorial, especially during breeding
Best housed with similarly sized and temperament-matched Malawi Haps
Compatible Tank Mates:
Other large, non-aggressive Haps or Peacock Cichlids
Avoid Mbuna and smaller tankmates (may be seen as prey)
Behavior Notes:
Displays stalking behavior; uses ambush tactics to catch prey
 
Breeding
Spawning Method: Maternal mouthbrooder
Breeding Conditions:
Male establishes territory and courts females with displays
Female incubates eggs in her mouth for 3–4 weeks
Fry Care:
Fry can be fed baby brine shrimp and powdered foods after release