Elongate mbuna

Pseudotropheus elongatus

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwatercichlids

The elongate mbuna is a mbuna with an elongated body, often blue or yellow in color. It is territorial and active.

Elongate mbuna — photo 1 sur 4
Mikko Stenberg · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain1 / 4
Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Lake Malawi
Lac africain, eau dure alcaline, cichlidés endémiques.

Description

Pseudotropheus elongatus has a more elongated body than other mbunas, with a low dorsal fin. Its coloration varies from dark blue to yellow with vertical bars. Dominant males are more vivid. It reaches up to 10 cm. It is an aggressive fish, especially towards similar species. It is a mouthbrooder.

Habitat

Region :

This mbuna inhabits rocky areas of Lake Malawi, often in shallow waters. It grazes algae on rocks and hides in crevices. The water is alkaline and hard.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH7.58.5
GH1020 °dGH
KH815 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Herbivore
Min. tank
200 L
Min. group
4
Adult size
10 cm
Lifespan
8 years
Temperament
Aggressive
Propagation
Incubateur buccal. La femelle garde les œufs dans sa bouche pendant environ 3 semaines.

Care notes

Aquarium of at least 200 L with plenty of rocks and hiding places. Alkaline water (pH 7.5-8.5), hard (GH 10-20), temperature 24-28°C. Herbivorous diet: spirulina, vegetables, vegetable pellets. Avoid animal proteins. Keep a group with one male to several females to dilute aggression. Compatible with other robust mbunas.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References