A striking, large predatory haplochromine cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. Known for its torpedo-shaped body (fusiform), it is an open-water hunter that preys on smaller fish like mbuna. While highly predatory and requiring a massive tank, they are relatively mild-mannered toward tankmates too large to be swallowed. Conspecific males, however, are violently intolerant of one another.
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap At a Glance
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap Tank Requirements
Will Three-Spot Torpedo Hap fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Three-Spot Torpedo Hap needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Three-Spot Torpedo Hap against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Three-Spot Torpedo Hap Water Parameters
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Three-Spot Torpedo Hap Temperament & Compatibility
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male
Adult males develop brilliant metallic blue faces and flanks with yellow or orange lower bodies. They are intensely territorial toward other E. anagenys males. Strictly one male per tank. Will consume any fish small enough to fit in its mouth.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Show Male, Blue Torpedo
Female
Females remain a golden yellow or silver color, displaying the distinct three melanin spots along the flank. They stay slightly smaller than males and can be kept in a harem.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Yellow Female, Three Spot
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Young specimens resemble females (yellow with three spots). They are fast, active eaters and will grow steadily. Must be upgraded to a 150+ gallon (6-foot) enclosure as they mature.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby, Unsexed
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap Care Guide Summary
The Three-Spot Torpedo Hap, scientifically known as Exochochromis anagenys, belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 22 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Three-Spot Torpedo Hap requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 570 litres and a tank length of at least 180 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 23°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 7.5–8.6 and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
The Three-Spot Torpedo Hap is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 3 varieties: Male, Female, and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Three-Spot Torpedo Hap, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour.
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Three-Spot Torpedo Hap is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Three-Spot Torpedo Hap.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Three-Spot Torpedo Hap
How big does Three-Spot Torpedo Hap get?
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap (Exochochromis anagenys) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 22 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Three-Spot Torpedo Hap need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 570 litres and a tank length of at least 180 cm are recommended for Three-Spot Torpedo Hap. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Three-Spot Torpedo Hap need?
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 23–28°C, a pH between 7.5 and 8.6, and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Three-Spot Torpedo Hap peaceful or aggressive?
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 6 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Three-Spot Torpedo Hap live alone?
Yes, Three-Spot Torpedo Hap can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Three-Spot Torpedo Hap have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Three-Spot Torpedo Hap benefits from sand (sifters) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Three-Spot Torpedo Hap
These plants pair well with Three-Spot Torpedo Hap based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
African Onion Plant
Crinum calamistratum
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Amazon Sword
Echinodorus amazonicus
Anacharis
Egeria densa
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Baby Tears
Lindernia rotundifolia
Fish Similar to Three-Spot Torpedo Hap
Buccochromis rhoadesii
Buccochromis rhoadesii
A massive, apex-predator Haplochromine cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. They are open-water pursuit predators characterized by an immense mouth and a distinct diagonal stripe across the body. Due to their enormous adult size and strictly piscivorous nature, they require massive aquariums and can only be housed with similarly large, robust species. Any tank mate small enough to fit in their mouth will be eaten.
Malawi Eyebiter
Dimidiochromis compressiceps
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Buccochromis lepturus
Buccochromis lepturus
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Trout Cichlid (Champsochromis)
Champsochromis caeruleus
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Blue Dolphin (Hap)
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Horei Cichlid
Ctenochromis horei
A robust and highly aggressive haplochromine cichlid native to Lake Tanganyika. Known for its striking coloration and dynamic, albeit violent, territorial behavior. Adults are opportunistic predators and piscivores. They are maternal mouthbrooders, and males are fiercely intolerant of other males. They require hard, alkaline water.