Mbuna Cichlids

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT
fast facts

About Mbuna Cichlids

Aquarium Size
Large
Difficulty Of Care
Weekly
Group
Freshwater
Suitable Tank Mates
Non-Conspecific Cichlids
Size
Small to Medium
Swimming Region
Mid-Range
Temperament
Aggressive
Fish Water Condition
Warm, Hard, and Alkaline Water
ADVERTISEMENT

Mbuna Cichlids General Description

The name Mbuna Cichlids is generally used to describe any of the rock-dwelling species of cichlids native to Lake Malawi. These cichlids are some of the most aggressive and territorial of all cichlid species so they generally need to be kept alone or in large tanks. For the best results you should pair a single male with multiple females rather than keeping more than one male in the same tank. You should also avoid keeping conspecifics (fish that look similar to each other) in the same tank.

The name “Mbuna Cichlids” is generally used to describe any of the rock-dwelling species of cichlids native to Lake Malawi.

Origins

Lake Malawi is one of the two largest Great Rift Valley lakes located in Southeastern Africa. This lake is home to an estimated 1,000 species of cichlid, including over 100 species of Mbuna cichlid. Twelve genera of Lake Malawi cichlids are classified as Mbuna cichlids – these genera include the following:

    Color

    Mbuna cichlids are some of the most brightly colored freshwater fishes in the world, exhibiting a wide range of colors and patterns. These cichlids are unique in that both the males and females of each species exhibit bright colorations, not just the male.

    Maintenance and Care

    ADVERTISEMENT

    Because Mbuna cichlids are endemic to Lake Malawi, they all have very similar requirements for water conditions. The pH of Lake Malawi ranges from 7.8 to 8.6 and the water is fairly hard with a hardness level of 4 to 6 dH. At the surface, the temperature for Lake Malawi ranges from 76°F to 85°F while a lower temperature around 70°F is common for the lower levels of the lake. Lake Malawi is very rocky along the coastline and that is where Mbuna cichlids are found. An Mbuna cichlid tank should be decorated with plenty of rocks, caves, and other hiding places.

    Mbuna cichlids are some of the most brightly colored freshwater fishes in the world, exhibiting a wide range of colors and patterns.

    Feeding

    All Mbuna cichlids are herbivores except for those belonging to the Labiochromis genus. In the wild, these cichlids feed on algae growing on the rocks, supplementing their diet with small insects and crustaceans. In the home aquarium, Mbuna cichlids should be offered commercial flakes, pellets, and granules designed for herbivorous species as well as some fresh vegetables and seaweed wafers.

    Also read:Cost-Cutting Tips and Tricks for Aquarium Enthusiasts

    Breeding Info

    Mbuna cichlids generally begin breeding by the time they have grown to a length of 3 inches – this usually occurs when they are about 1 year old. Males of the species are usually larger than females and more brightly colored – the dominant male of any territory will be the most brightly colored. Like other Lake Malawi cichlids, Mbuna cichlids are polygamous mouth brooders. The male digs a nest in the substrate where the female lays her eggs – the male fertilizes them as she gathers them in her mouth where they will be incubated until hatching.

    Aquarium Varieties

    There are over 100 species of Mbuna cichlid but some of them are more popular than others for the home aquarium. Some of the top Mbuna cichlids in the aquarium hobby include the following:

      Photo credit: Arunee Rodloy/Shutterstock; SJ Duran/Shutterstock

      ADVERTISEMENT

      ADVERTISEMENT

      You May Like

      Snorf’s Kickstarter Puts The Fun In Functional With Fleece BatHats A

      Listen up! This cool custom winter apparel line keeps your dog’s ears toasty warm. We’ve created creatures of habit, animals conditioned to a cer…
      Understanding Asthma In Cats

      This human affliction can also leave your cat short of breath - and it''s a serious health risk. here''s what you need to know about asthma in cats.
      Upside Down Dog Of The Week – Poppy

      It’s Tuesday and you know what that means – it’s time to announce our Upside Down Dog of the Week from Upsidedowndogs.com. This week’…
      Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Carlton

      With a look like that, you can’t help but wonder what Carlton, our Adoptable Dog of the Week, is thinking about. Whatever it is, we don’t care &n…
      Chiweenie

      A cross between a Chihuahua and Dachshund, the Chiweenie is one cute pooch. Long and small, this adorable hybrid is picking up in popularity.
      Bacon and Eggs Dog Muffin Recipe

      The best part of waking up has to be our Bacon and Eggs Dog Muffins. This is one treat that''ll have your dog bright eyed and bushy tailed.
      What Are the Dangers of Water Hemlock to Dogs?

      When you''re out for a walk by the water, keep your dog away from this wild flower. Water hemlock is one of the most toxic plants to dogs.
      Squirrelfish

      Squirrelfish are a family of ray-finned saltwater fish. They are characterized by their large eyes and long, sharp dorsal spines.
      Bernese Mountain Dog

      When you think of a dog with a classic, tri-colored coat appearance, there''s a good chance you''ve met a the Bernese Mountain Dog.
      Lucy Liu Launches Le Roar, Dedicated To Quality Pet Products

      Actress Lucy Liu partners with costume designer Ellen Stockbridge for her first dog product line, offering chic home and play accessories made in the U.S.
      Chug

      If you can''t decide between a Pug or a Chihuahua, you may be able to get the best of both worlds with a crossbreed called the Chug. Perfect lap-sized dog.
      Midland Painted Turtle

      The Midland Painted Turtle is a good option for beginner turtle keepers, as is is tame, hardy, and enjoyable to watch. They come in a range of colors.
      Top 10 Things To Do On Your Dog’s Summer Bucket List

      After a long Canadian winter, my dogs and I are so ready for the dog days of summer! To make the most of our summer time fun, I have devised my ultimate summertime bucket list.
      SuperZoo 2016 Day 2: KATRIS Lynks Modular Cat Scratchers

      The claws came out at SuperZoo when KATRIS unveiled its Lynks Modular Cat Scratchers. These cat scratchers are the cat''s meow!
      English Setter

      Generally easy-going, the English Setter is prone to obedience and loyalty. This dog was originally bred for hunting, like many others its pedigree.