Open-Water Showstoppers
Peacocks and Haps come from the open waters of Lake Malawi, where there’s room to move, grow, and be seen. These are fish that love to cruise, gliding through open water with an easy confidence that draws your eye without demanding it. Spend a few minutes watching them, and you’ll notice how naturally they command the space around them.
Their colors are a big part of the magic. As Peacocks and Haps mature, males develop rich blues, fiery reds, sunny yellows, and shimmering metallic tones that seem to shift as they move. It’s one of those tanks where something new catches your eye every time you walk by, even if you’ve seen it a hundred times before.
A well-designed Peacock and Hap tank is all about balance and flow. Open swimming areas, gentle rock accents, and thoughtful layout give these fish the space they need to feel comfortable and confident. The result is a tank that feels calm, intentional, and alive—an inviting centerpiece that’s just as relaxing to watch as it is rewarding to care for.
Care Profile
◦ Origin – Lake Malawi
◦ Temperament – Semi-Aggressive
◦ Tank Size – 75 gallons or more
◦ Aquascape – Open Swimming Areas with Strategic Rockwork
◦ Diet – Omnivore (protein-leaning)
◦ Breeding – Mouth Brooders (Female Carry Fry)
◦ Temperature – 76-80°
◦ Water Quality (ph) – 7.8 – 8.4
◦ Nitrates – ≤ 40ppm
Life Among the Roots
Though Peacock and Hap environments are defined by open water and swimming space, plants can still be incorporated with intention. Submerged options like Anubias and Java Fern work best when kept minimal and secured to rocks or décor along the edges, preserving clear swimming lanes. Emerged plants such as pothos, peace lilies, monsteras, or philodendrons thrive with their roots suspended in the water, helping support water quality while adding a natural, living connection above and below the surface.
Did You Know?
Think of Peacocks and Haps as living mood rings, when their environment is right, their colors pop, their movement smooths out, and their personalities really shine.
