Malawi Hawk (Aristochromis christyi)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameAristochromis christyi

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asAristochromis, Christyi, Hawk Cichlid

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size10 in

Minimum tank size125 gallons

Water parametersTemp 76-82°F, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Elongate body with a downward-sloping snout; males develop blue head and yellow flanks with a diagonal stripe. Built like an underwater hawk.

Difficulty and care for the Malawi Hawk

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Malawi, Africa

Keeper notes

Large piscivorous hap with a pointed predatory head; eats smaller fish. Territorial; keep one male with several females in a large tank.

Log Malawi Hawk in your reef tank

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