Maingano Cichlid

Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos

Also known as: Maingano, Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos

Small, electric blue and black striped mbuna that is one of the milder members of its group.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

76–82°F

pH

7.6–8.6

Hardness

10–20 dGH

Max size

3.5 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Groups

Swim level

Mid-bottom

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Beginner

Lifespan

5-10 years

Breeding

Mouthbrooder

Suitability

Common

Origin

Lake Malawi (Likoma Island)

Among the least aggressive mbuna, but still belongs in a 55 gallon or larger rocky Malawi tank with other mbuna. Keep in a group with more females than males. Needs hard, alkaline water and a diet with some vegetable matter.