Zebra mbuna
Maylandia zebra
Family : Cichlidae
The zebra mbuna is a popular mbuna, recognizable by its blue and black vertical stripes. It is an active and territorial fish.
Description
The body of Maylandia zebra is elongated and laterally compressed, with a light blue base color striped with black vertical bars. Males are more colorful than females. It is aggressive towards conspecifics, especially during breeding. It can reach 12 cm. It is a mouthbrooder: the female holds eggs in her mouth.
Habitat
Region :
The zebra mbuna lives in rocky areas of Lake Malawi, between 5 and 20 meters deep. It feeds on algae and small invertebrates found on rocks. The lake water is alkaline and hard.
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Keep this mbuna in a minimum 200 L aquarium with plenty of rocks to create territories. Water should be alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5) and hard (GH 10-20). Temperature 24-28°C. They are herbivorous with omnivorous tendencies: feed spirulina-based foods and blanched vegetables. Avoid high-protein animal foods. A group of one male with several females is recommended. Watch out for fights.
Similar species
Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance
