{"product_id":"haplochromis-ivory-undu-reef","title":"Haplochromis ivory Undu Reef (4-5 cm)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHaplochromis ivory Undu Reef\u003c\/strong\u003e is a beautiful Lake Victoria cichlid offered here at a juvenile size of \u003cstrong\u003e4-5 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e. As with many Victorian haplochromines, this fish develops its best colouration and character as it matures, making it a rewarding choice for aquarists who enjoy observing natural behaviour, growth and social interaction over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis species is best suited to fishkeepers with some cichlid experience, or anyone looking to build a specialist African setup centred around Lake Victoria species. It is active, intelligent and territorial in the way many cichlids are, but it can be kept successfully in the right environment with appropriate tank mates and stable water conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt Tropical Fish Co, we supply healthy live fish with \u003cstrong\u003efast UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e and a \u003cstrong\u003elive arrival guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e, so you can order with confidence. Please note that juvenile colouration may be understated compared with mature adults, and exact appearance can vary naturally between individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCare at a Glance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAttribute\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDetails\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eScientific name\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cem\u003eHaplochromis ivory Undu reef\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCommon name\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIvory Undu Reef haplochromine\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOrigin\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLake Victoria, East Africa\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdult size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApprox. 8-10 cm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperament\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSemi-aggressive\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCare level\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eModerate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMinimum tank size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e200 litres\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e24-27°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003epH\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7.8-8.6\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiet\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOmnivore with a strong insectivore\/planktivore tendency\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTank region\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMiddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003ch2\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Natural Habitat\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis fish originates from \u003cstrong\u003eLake Victoria\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of Africa’s great rift lakes and home to a remarkable diversity of cichlids. The Undu Reef locality is associated with rocky shoreline habitat, where fish use crevices, broken rock and open water nearby for feeding and shelter. In nature, haplochromines are highly adapted to specific niches, and their behaviour often reflects this specialised evolution.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWater in Lake Victoria is typically alkaline and mineral-rich, with warm, stable temperatures. These conditions are important to replicate in the aquarium. A well-maintained setup with good filtration, oxygenation and regular water changes will help this species thrive and display natural activity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTank Setup \u0026amp; Water Parameters\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor best results, keep \u003cem\u003eHaplochromis ivory Undu Reef\u003c\/em\u003e in a spacious aquarium of at least \u003cstrong\u003e200 litres\u003c\/strong\u003e, with more room preferred if keeping a group or mixed Victorian cichlid community. A longer tank is usually better than a tall one, as these fish appreciate swimming space and defined territories.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUse a substrate of fine sand or smooth gravel, and build a rockscape with caves, ledges and visual barriers. Leave open areas for swimming. Rockwork should be stable and securely stacked to prevent collapse, as cichlids can dig and rearrange the substrate. Filtration should be strong but not overly turbulent, with excellent water quality and plenty of dissolved oxygen.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRecommended water parameters are \u003cstrong\u003e24-27°C\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003epH 7.8-8.6\u003c\/strong\u003e, with hard, alkaline water. If your tap water is soft, you may need to buffer and remineralise appropriately. Avoid sudden changes in pH or temperature, as Lake Victoria cichlids can be sensitive to instability. Regular partial water changes are essential to keep nitrate low and maintain long-term health.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause this is a juvenile at 4-5 cm, it is wise to provide a calm environment initially, especially if introducing it to an established cichlid tank. Good cover and multiple territories will reduce stress and help the fish settle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFeeding Guide\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, Lake Victoria haplochromines often feed on small invertebrates, insect larvae, zooplankton and other tiny food items. In the aquarium, offer a varied diet based on high-quality cichlid pellets or granules, supplemented with frozen foods such as mysis, daphnia, brine shrimp and chopped krill in moderation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeed small amounts once or twice daily, only what the fish will consume quickly. Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and digestive issues. While many cichlids enjoy rich foods, it is best to avoid excessive fatty or mammal-based foods. A varied, balanced diet will support growth, colour and breeding condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eJuveniles benefit from frequent small meals, but always keep the tank clean and avoid allowing uneaten food to accumulate. Good nutrition and stable water go hand in hand for this species.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTank Mates \/ Compatibility\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHaplochromis ivory Undu Reef\u003c\/em\u003e is best kept with other African cichlids of similar size and temperament, ideally from Lake Victoria or carefully selected species from comparable water conditions. Suitable companions may include other non-overly aggressive Victorian haplochromines, provided the tank is large enough and territories are well defined.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is not a good choice for peaceful community fish, very small species, or highly aggressive cichlids that will outcompete or bully it. Avoid mixing with fish that require soft, acidic water, as their needs are incompatible. As with most cichlids, individual temperament can vary, so observe behaviour closely during introduction and be prepared to rearrange decor if needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor a more natural display, keep a small group with a sensible male-to-female ratio where possible, or maintain a species tank with carefully managed social structure. Plenty of rockwork and line-of-sight breaks are important for reducing aggression.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy from Tropical Fish Co\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen you order from Tropical Fish Co, you are choosing quality livestock, careful packing and reliable service. We understand that live fish need more than just a box and a label: they need expert handling, appropriate acclimation advice and prompt delivery. That is why we offer \u003cstrong\u003efast UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e and a \u003cstrong\u003elive arrival guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e for peace of mind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOur fish are selected with care, and we aim to provide healthy specimens that are ready to settle into your aquarium. Whether you are building a Lake Victoria biotope or expanding a specialist African cichlid collection, we are here to help you choose the right fish and keep them successfully. If you are looking for a distinctive cichlid with real character and a fascinating natural history, \u003cem\u003eHaplochromis ivory Undu Reef\u003c\/em\u003e is an excellent choice.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tropical Fish Co","offers":[{"title":"4-5 cm","offer_id":57446826836303,"sku":"N244","price":20.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2-3 cm","offer_id":57560306811215,"sku":"N221","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"7-9 cm","offer_id":57560306843983,"sku":"1049","price":43.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"6-7 cm","offer_id":57560306876751,"sku":"N255","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"9-11 cm","offer_id":57560306909519,"sku":"1050","price":52.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1007\/1408\/6735\/files\/haplochromis-ivory-undu-reef-natural-aquarium-n244.webp?v=1777853269","url":"https:\/\/tropical-fish-co.myshopify.com\/products\/haplochromis-ivory-undu-reef","provider":"Tropical Fish Co","version":"1.0","type":"link"}