Locally Bred in Indiana

For the safety of our animals, we now ship live fish exclusively via UPS Next Day Air. If your order contains this item, you will only see UPS Next Day Air as a shipping option during checkout.

Stigmatochromis melanchros is one of the rarest and most visually striking predator haps from Lake Malawi. These juveniles were bred locally in Indiana by an expert cichlid breeder, and we’re proud to offer this exceptionally uncommon species exclusively through Aquatic Arts.

Adult males develop an intense dark coloration with subtle iridescence and electric blue accents in the fins—an appearance that gives this fish its “melanchros” (meaning "black-colored") name. Photos of the breeding adults are included in this listing to show what these juveniles will grow into with proper care. Currently available fish are still young and uncolored.

What We Love About This Fish:

• One of the rarest Stigmatochromis species in the hobby
• Striking adult coloration: jet black body with glowing blue highlights
• Powerful, torpedo-shaped build perfect for open swimming
• Locally bred in Indiana from a stunning breeding pair

Natural Habitat:

Native to the deep rocky zones of Lake Malawi, Stigmatochromis melanchros is a piscivorous predator that cruises through open waters near boulder piles, hunting smaller fish. Its natural environment features clean, mineral-rich water and high oxygenation.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Not recommended—these large cichlids may ignore or disturb them
• Hardscape: Create a layout with large rocks, caves, and long open swimming lanes
• Botanicals: Not necessary but can be used sparingly for natural aesthetics without altering pH

Diet and Feeding:

This species is a carnivore that thrives on a diet of protein-rich foods. Feed frozen or live foods like krill, mysis shrimp, and chopped fish, along with high-quality carnivore pellets. For a daily staple, we recommend Ultra Fresh Royal Cichlid Premium Pellet – Shrimp Delight, which promotes vibrant coloration and supports growth and immune health.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Suitable tank mates include other large, semi-aggressive haps or peacocks. Avoid overly aggressive species and small, delicate fish. Provide plenty of space and hiding spots to diffuse territorial behavior, especially when housing multiple males.

Shrimp Safe:

❌ No – This species is a predatory hunter and will eat shrimp or smaller fish.

Breeding:

A maternal mouthbrooder. Males become territorial and display to females during courtship, clearing out a spawning site. Females incubate the eggs in their mouths for several weeks. The juveniles offered here are offspring from a stunning locally bred pair.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 76° - 82° F (24° - 28° C)
• pH: 7.8 – 8.6
• KH: 8 – 14 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous – thrives on high-protein frozen and pellet foods
• Social Behavior: Semi-aggressive; males will defend territory during breeding
• Origin: Locally bred in Indiana
• Average Adult Size: 10 – 12 inches (25 – 30 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 2 – 3 inches (juveniles not yet showing adult coloration)

Add One of Lake Malawi’s Rarest Predators to Your Collection:
Stigmatochromis melanchros is a hidden gem in the cichlid world. With jet-black coloration and an elegant, torpedo-shaped body, this locally bred predator is a powerful and captivating choice for experienced aquarists looking to grow out a showstopper—available now from Aquatic Arts.

Live Arrival Guarantee:
All Aquatic Arts brand fish come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support.