Latin Name: Various species, commonly from the genus Pseudotropheus, Melanochromis, and Labeotropheus

Other Names: Mbuna, Rockfish

These vibrant fish are a lively and eye-catching addition to any aquarium, known for their stunning colours and fascinating behaviours.

How hard are they to keep?

They?re moderately challenging to keep due to their specific needs and territorial nature. With the right setup and care, they can be a rewarding addition for both intermediate and experienced aquarists.

What is its maximum size?

Mbuna Cichlids typically grow to about 4-5 inches (10-13 cm). Some species can get a bit larger, but they generally stay within this range, making them suitable for medium to large tanks.

Where are they from?

These cichlids hail from Lake Malawi in Africa. They?re used to rocky environments in the lake, where they can hide and establish territories. Their natural habitat influences their tank requirements significantly.

How many can I keep?

You can keep a group of them, but they need a spacious tank due to their territorial behaviour. A minimum of a 55-gallon tank is recommended for a small group. Overcrowding can actually help to diffuse aggression, so having a higher number of Mbunas (around 12-15 in a large tank) with plenty of hiding spots can work well.

How compatible are they with other fish?

Mbunas are best kept with other Mbunas or similar African cichlids. They can be quite aggressive and territorial, especially with other species. Avoid mixing them with peaceful community fish as they might bully or stress them. Tankmates should be able to hold their own in a lively, sometimes combative environment.

What are the ideal water conditions?

These cichlids thrive in water temperatures between 73-82?F (23-28?C) and a pH level of 7.8 to 8.6, reflecting the alkaline waters of Lake Malawi. They prefer hard water, so maintaining these conditions is crucial for their health and well-being. A good filtration system and regular water changes are essential to keep their environment pristine. The Mbuna that are for sale have all been climatized to our water conditions.

How do you tell the difference between male and female?

Males are generally more brightly coloured than females, often displaying more intense hues and patterns. Females tend to be smaller and less vibrantly coloured. During breeding, males become even more colourful to attract females and may show more aggressive behaviour as they defend their territories.

Fun Fact:

Mbuna Cichlids are mouthbrooders. This means that after the female lays eggs, she scoops them up into her mouth where they are fertilized and then carried until they hatch. It?s quite a sight to see a mother Mbuna with a mouthful of tiny, wriggling fry.

The Malawi Mbuna Cichlids are a spectacular addition to any aquarium with their bright colours and dynamic behaviour. They require a bit more care and attention, but for those willing to provide the right environment, they offer endless fascination and beauty.

Tank Number: These can be found in tank numbers :50 - 51

Latin Name: Various species, commonly from the genus Pseudotropheus, Melanochromis, and Labeotropheus

Other Names: Mbuna, Rockfish

These vibrant fish are a lively and eye-catching addition to any aquarium, known for their stunning colours and fascinating behaviours.

How hard are they to keep?

They?re moderately challenging to keep due to their specific needs and territorial nature. With the right setup and care, they can be a rewarding addition for both intermediate and experienced aquarists.

What is its maximum size?

Mbuna Cichlids typically grow to about 4-5 inches (10-13 cm). Some species can get a bit larger, but they generally stay within this range, making them suitable for medium to large tanks.

Where are they from?

These cichlids hail from Lake Malawi in Africa. They?re used to rocky environments in the lake, where they can hide and establish territories. Their natural habitat influences their tank requirements significantly.

How many can I keep?

You can keep a group of them, but they need a spacious tank due to their territorial behaviour. A minimum of a 55-gallon tank is recommended for a small group. Overcrowding can actually help to diffuse aggression, so having a higher number of Mbunas (around 12-15 in a large tank) with plenty of hiding spots can work well.

How compatible are they with other fish?

Mbunas are best kept with other Mbunas or similar African cichlids. They can be quite aggressive and territorial, especially with other species. Avoid mixing them with peaceful community fish as they might bully or stress them. Tankmates should be able to hold their own in a lively, sometimes combative environment.

What are the ideal water conditions?

These cichlids thrive in water temperatures between 73-82?F (23-28?C) and a pH level of 7.8 to 8.6, reflecting the alkaline waters of Lake Malawi. They prefer hard water, so maintaining these conditions is crucial for their health and well-being. A good filtration system and regular water changes are essential to keep their environment pristine. The Mbuna that are for sale have all been climatized to our water conditions.

How do you tell the difference between male and female?

Males are generally more brightly coloured than females, often displaying more intense hues and patterns. Females tend to be smaller and less vibrantly coloured. During breeding, males become even more colourful to attract females and may show more aggressive behaviour as they defend their territories.

Fun Fact:

Mbuna Cichlids are mouthbrooders. This means that after the female lays eggs, she scoops them up into her mouth where they are fertilized and then carried until they hatch. It?s quite a sight to see a mother Mbuna with a mouthful of tiny, wriggling fry.

The Malawi Mbuna Cichlids are a spectacular addition to any aquarium with their bright colours and dynamic behaviour. They require a bit more care and attention, but for those willing to provide the right environment, they offer endless fascination and beauty.

Tank Number: These can be found in tank number:45

Latin Name: Paraneetroplus synspilus x Amphilophus citrinellus (Hybrid)

Other Names: Yellow Blood Parrot Cichlid, Yellow Parrot Cichlid

Alright, fish enthusiasts, let?s have a natter about the dazzling Yellow Parrot Fish. These vibrant fish are a fantastic addition to any aquarium, known for their bright colours and distinctive beak-like mouths.

How hard are they to keep?

They?re moderately easy to keep, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They do require a bit of special care due to their hybrid nature, but with the right setup, they?ll do just fine.

What is its maximum size?

Yellow Parrot Fish can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length. Their size makes them a striking centerpiece in medium to large tanks.

Where are they from?

These fish are not found in the wild. They?re a hybrid species, bred specifically for the aquarium trade. Their parent species originate from Central America, but the Yellow Parrot Fish itself is a result of selective breeding.

How many can I keep?

You can keep a single Yellow Parrot Fish in a tank, but they?re social creatures and often do better in pairs or small groups. For a single fish, a 30-gallon tank is the minimum, but if you?re keeping more, aim for at least a 55-gallon tank to give them plenty of space.

How compatible are they with other fish?

Yellow Parrot Fish are generally peaceful but can be semi-aggressive, especially when they?re breeding. They?re best kept with other semi-aggressive or robust community fish like other cichlids, large tetras, or catfish. Avoid housing them with small, delicate fish that might get bullied.

What are the ideal water conditions?

They prefer a temperature range of 71-82?F (22-28?C) and a pH level between 6.5 and 7.4. They thrive in moderately hard water. Make sure to keep their environment clean with a good filtration system and regular water changes to maintain optimal water quality. The Yellow Parrot Fish that are for sale have been climatized to our water conditions.

How do you tell the difference between male and female?

It?s quite tricky to tell the difference between male and female Yellow Parrot Fish, especially when they?re young. Males might be slightly larger and more vibrant in colour, while females could have a rounder body shape. During breeding, females display more nurturing behaviour as they guard their eggs.

Fun Fact:

Yellow Parrot Fish are known for their unique mouth shape, which resembles a parrot?s beak. Despite their somewhat comical appearance, this feature can make it challenging for them to compete for food, so make sure they?re getting enough to eat in a community tank.