Red Zebra (Maylandia estherae) Care Guide
A vibrant mbuna cichlid from Lake Malawi whose common name is misleading — females are typically bright orange while males can be blue.
Overview
Maylandia estherae is a species in the family Cichlidae. A vibrant mbuna cichlid from Lake Malawi whose common name is misleading — females are typically bright orange while males can be blue. One of the most popular and readily available mbuna species, known for its hardiness and bold personality. Requires a rocky aquascape with multiple hiding spots.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Maylandia
- Scientific name: Maylandia estherae
- Other names: Estherae, Orange Zebra Mbuna
- Origin: Africa, Lake Malawi
Habitat
Endemic to Lake Malawi in the East African Rift. A rock-dwelling mbuna found along rocky shorelines, where it grazes algal aufwuchs. Despite the common name it is most often orange rather than zebra-striped; a maternal mouthbrooder. Formerly placed in the genera Pseudotropheus and Metriaclima.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C
- pH: 7.5-8.5
- GH: 10-20 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 10-13 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: Other Mbuna, Synodontis, Bristlenose Pleco
- Avoid with: Peacock Cichlids, Small Fish, Invertebrates
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: mouthbrooder
- Breeding difficulty: beginner