Lethrinops Gold Harbour Is - Monkey Bay 3.5cm

Lethrinops Gold Harbour Is-Monkey Bay

Lethrinops sp. 'Gold Harbour', commonly referred to as the Gold Harbour cichlid, is a captivating species endemic to the rocky and sandy shores of Lake Malawi in East Africa. This species is particularly associated with the Monkey Bay area, where it inhabits intermediate zones between rocky outcrops and sandy substrates. Renowned for its striking coloration and relatively peaceful demeanour, the Gold Harbour cichlid is a favoured choice among cichlid enthusiasts seeking to add a touch of uniqueness to their aquariums.

The Gold Harbour cichlid boasts a dazzling appearance, with males displaying a radiant golden-yellow hue across their bodies, complemented by shimmering blue accents on the face and fins. This vibrant coloration becomes more pronounced during breeding periods, serving to attract females. Females and juveniles, while less vividly coloured, exhibit a more subdued silver or grey tone with faint vertical barring, providing effective camouflage against the sandy lakebed. Adult males can reach up to 15 centimetres in length, with females typically being slightly smaller.

In the aquarium setting, Lethrinops sp. 'Gold Harbour' is known for its peaceful nature, making it suitable for community tanks with other peaceful cichlid species. They are benthic feeders, often seen sifting through the sandy substrate in search of food. During breeding, males establish and defend small territories, creating shallow pits in the sand where spawning occurs. This species is a maternal mouthbrooder as well, after fertilisation, the female carries the eggs and later the fry in her mouth for protection until they are ready to fend for themselves.

Tank Recommendations for your Lethrinops Gold Harbour Is-Monkey Bay

To replicate their natural habitat, it is advisable to provide an aquarium of at least 200 litres for a small group. The tank should feature a sandy substrate to facilitate their natural foraging behaviour, along with scattered rocks and caves to offer hiding spots and territorial boundaries. Maintaining water parameters with a pH between 7.5 and 8.5 and a temperature range of 24 to 28 degrees Celsius will ensure optimal health.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Given their peaceful temperament, Gold Harbour cichlids can coexist harmoniously with other non-aggressive cichlid species from Lake Malawi. Ideal tank mates include species that share similar environmental preferences and peacefulness.

Usually Compatible

Lethrinops Gold Harbour cichlids do well with other peaceful cichlids that share similar habitat preferences. Species such as Aulonocara (Peacock cichlids), Copadichromis, and Placidochromis are excellent companions.

Sometimes Compatible

Some mildly aggressive cichlids, such as certain Haplochromis species, can be housed with Lethrinops Gold Harbour if the tank is large enough and offers plenty of hiding spaces. Non-cichlid species like Synodontis catfish can also work, as they occupy different areas of the tank and do not compete for the same resources.

Rarely Compatible

Highly aggressive or territorial South American cichlids like Oscars as these not only have potential physical risks but would be environmentally incompatible as well.

Feeding your Lethrinops Gold Harbour Is-Monkey Bay

In the wild, this species primarily feeds on small invertebrates and organic matter found in the sandy substrate. In an aquarium, they thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality cichlid pellets and flakes, along with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.