Description
Geographic Range: Lake Malawi, East Africa
Diet: Herbivorous – mainly algae grazers; offer high-quality herbivore pellets supplemented with fresh vegetables like blanched spinach or zucchini.
Average Adult Size: 4-5 inches (10-13 cm)
Preferred Water Parameters: pH 7.8-8.6, hardness (dH) 7-20°, temperature 75-82°F (24-28°C)
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters)
Acceptable Tank Mates: Other Lake Malawi cichlids such as mbuna species (e.g., Pseudotropheus, Labidochromis), avoid larger, more aggressive species; provide ample rock formations and hiding spots to establish territories.