Mbuna (Pseudotropheus sp.) Care Guide

A group of rock-dwelling cichlids from Lake Malawi known for vibrant colors and high aggression. Includes dozens of species in blue, yellow, and orange color forms.

Overview

Pseudotropheus sp. is a species in the family Cichlidae. A group of rock-dwelling cichlids from Lake Malawi known for vibrant colors and high aggression. Includes dozens of species in blue, yellow, and orange color forms. Requires a heavily stocked tank with lots of rock structures to manage territorial behavior.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Pseudotropheus
Scientific name: Pseudotropheus sp.
Other names: Pseudotropheus, Zebra Mbuna
Origin: Africa, Lake Malawi

Habitat

Pseudotropheus is one of the genera of mbuna — the rock-dwelling cichlids of Lake Malawi. Wild populations are tied to specific stretches of rocky shoreline and rarely cross open sandy stretches between rock complexes, producing strong geographic colour variation. Mbuna graze algae from rocks and require structured rockwork in captivity.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 200 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 7.5-8.5
GH: 10-25 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 8-15 cm
Lifespan: 5-10 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as herbivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: aggressive
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Yellow Lab, Other Mbunas, Synodontis Petricola, Bristlenose Pleco
Avoid with: Peacock Cichlids, Small Fish, Shrimp

Breeding

Breeding strategy: mouthbrooder
Breeding difficulty: intermediate