Mbenji Cichlid
Maylandia mbenjii
Family : Cichlidae
Maylandia mbenjii is a Mbuna endemic to Mbenji Island, with a metallic blue body and yellow highlights. It is less common in the hobby but highly valued by collectors.
Description
Maylandia mbenjii has an elongated body and a brilliant metallic blue coloration, with yellow hues on the head and fins in dominant males. Females are duller, often grayish-blue. It reaches 10–12 cm. It is territorial but slightly less aggressive than other Mbuna. In the wild, it lives exclusively around Mbenji Island in clear, rocky waters. Its diet is herbivorous, feeding on periphyton algae. In the aquarium, it requires conditions similar to other Mbuna, with adequate volume and hiding places.
Habitat
Region :
Lake Malawi, rocky zones of Mbenji Island
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended for a group of 3–5 fish. Feed a herbivorous diet of spirulina and vegetables. It can coexist with other Mbuna of similar size and temperament, but avoid overly aggressive species. Provide a rocky setup with open swimming areas. Weekly 20% water changes are recommended. Efficient filtration is necessary. Reproduction is maternal mouthbrooding.
Similar species
Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance
