types of mbuna cichlids

There are over 100 species of Mbuna cichlid but some of them are more popular than others for the home aquarium. The fish that can be tried are the red-tail shark, giant danios, pleco, scavenger catfish, botia loaches, red rainbow fish, African red eyed tetra, and the leopard bushfish. Mbuna Cichlids are some of the cheaper fish available on the market. Notable mbuna cichlids Peacock cichlids ( Aulonocara species) Utaka cichlids Other genera such as Rhamphochromis Yellow and orange are common mbuna colours but importantly, and rarely for any wild-type tropical fish is blue, and this is where the mbuna excel, with literally hundreds of bright blue … The mbuna (pronounced um-boo-nah) cichlids, also known as Mbuna African Cichlids, come from Lake Malawi. The name Mbuna translates to "Rock Fish", as they like to reside in and around rocks. They’ll be less likely to leave their little hidey hole and fight, for fear of losing it to any encroaching males. Don’t be surprised if you never find another fish breed to add. Golden Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus) 4. You’re in luck! Every species explained and detailed. Fine sand as gravel. Thanks for supporting our site. The most famous is probably mbuna cichlid, and for a reason. Lake Tanganyika Cichlids Lake Tanganyika, the second deepest lake in the world, is inhabited with almost 250 different species of cichlids and over 150 species … Mbuna is a term used to group species of Lake Malawi cichlids according to their DNA and certain physical properties such as their dentition . Here we profile some of the world’s most popular freshwater fish species, from the Neon Tetra to the Pearl Gourami. Some that can be kept with several different species and some that are prone to aggression towards others. These are generally somewhat larger and more peaceful than the Zebra (mbuna) cichlids. Mbuna, a type of African cichlid famous for their striking colors and behavior, is endemic to Lake Malawi. But in order to see that behavior and understand it you will need to do some reading about the different genus and species so you will understand how to keep them and how to successfully breed them. Beware of what’s called the “Malawi bloat.” This is when your cichlid’s stomach and neck bloat up and become very firm. Cobalt Blue Zebra, (Maylandia callainos) Mbuna Malawi African Cichlid. Plenty of rocks. Many common and rare aquarium species of African cichlid… Mbuna cichlids are definitely group fish, and they get bigger in captivity than they do in the wild. Often they are sold with only a common name (e.g., Red Top Zebra, Electric Blue) or even worse, in an unlabeled tank they mysteriously referred to as "Misc African cichlids". You have seen them most likely in videos where there are hundreds of them bunched in one place, but contrary to this, they are very territorial and very few species tend to school together; but since the real-estate of the rock areas are in high demand they will often be found in clusters. Some of the most popular cichlid species from Lake Malawi include Mbuna cichlids and peacock cichlids. The Amazon River is home to lots of South American cichlids, but some species can be found in slow moving streams across the continent, and even up into Central America. Also you will need to be careful how many to buy and what species play well with other species. Your tank should be deep and wide, so that it mimics the conditions of Lake Malawi. Common names are very … Male cichlids are very aggressive and will defend their territory from any and all perceived threats, especially other males. They come in different shapes and sizes; most of them are adapted to grazing algae from the rocky habitat and are all vegetarian with very few exceptions that are omnivore and 1 single genus piscivore. Keeping/Maintenance requirements. For instance, mbuna and peacock cichlids … Blue Zebra Cichlid (Maylandia callainos) 6. Fifty-three gallons minimum is your best bet. Food should be … You can achieve this by using an airstone or a Venturi. The best way to avoid this issue is to ensure your mbuna cichlids consume the right foods. The upperparts may be rusty brown … The body coloration is variable. Sort by Featured … The eyes can even pop a bit. This site is part of the Amazon affiliate program. Some of the top Mbuna cichlids in the aquarium hobby include the following: 1. Yellow Lab Cichlid (Labidochromis caeruleus) 2. This way you will limit aggression and you will be able to see how they behave in nature. They’re basically freshwater reef fish! There are eight fish that are best suited as tankmates – but this isn’t true all the time, however. By Maha Dinesh (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 licence). When you get mbuna cichlids, you’re making a decent-sized commitment, as the recommended school size is at least twenty fish, although thirty or forty is even better. The most common mbuna cichlids are the red zebra cichlid, the blue zebra, the bumble or hornet cichlid, the golden cichlid, the electric yellow or yellow lab cichlid, and the blue johannii. Aquarium must be long and wide, height is non-important for mbunas as they prefer actual square footage over levels. The most common mbuna cichlids are the red zebra cichlid, the blue zebra, the bumble or hornet cichlid, the golden cichlid, the electric yellow or yellow lab cichlid, and the blue johannii. Click here to see many more color varieties of Trewavasae. Namely, these Lake Malawi beauties are one the most colorful fish species. This means a minimum of four feet, but a larger tank would be even better. Bumblebee Cichlid (Pseudotropheus crabro) 5. There are many types of cichlids, and therefore many types of food, so they need a type designed specifically for them – mainly, an algae-based food aimed at herbivores. … Foe example a single neon for a 75 gallon is enough since they prefer dimmer lights compared to high intensity ones. All about the Cichlidae family fishes. Oct 20, 2016 - Explore Bridget's board "Mbuna Cichlids" on Pinterest. Lake Malawi is an African Great Lake located in Tanzania, and is the ninth largest lake in the world. Kribensis are one of the most colorful cichlid subspecies. Clown Lab Cichlid (Labidochromis chisumulae… Even if you feel there are enough rocks there, you can always add more, the fish will be grateful. The zebra cichlid is one of the most popular among mbuna cichlids. Initially, the mbuna cichlids belonged to the Pseudotropheus genus, but this is no longer the case as they have been … Keeping cichlids from the same region together is also recommended. The word can be translated in English as “rock fish”. The … Colorful, interesting, and with unique personalities, this species of fish can enhance any fish tank set-up, so long as they’re properly cared for. The body coloration is variable. Their name means “rockfish” in the language of the Tonga people of Malawi. The tank lighting should be minimal. As already mentioned, cichlids … This channel is based on my love & hobby for exotic pets and nature. Mbuna live in massive groups, and love rocky places to hide. Other Malawi Cichlids - These include Utaka Cichlids which tend to live in open waters. Electric blue cichlid. The Zebra Cichlids, also known as the Mbuna Cichlids, are endemic to Lake Malawi. In South American rainforests there is a group of small fish, usually called dwarf cichlids. They live amongst the rocks, in comparison to non-mbunas, like the utaka, who live in op… They require a certain type … See more ideas about mbuna cichlids, cichlids, african cichlids. Keep in mind that mbuna cichlids, while easy once you get the hang of them, are still fish that can take some getting used to and aren’t recommended for the beginner aquarist. We earn commission for purchases made through our links. Do you have any tips on mbuna cichlid care? Lake Malawi is one of the three rift lakes of Eastern Africa, along with Lake Tanganyika and Lake Victoria, and stretches 360 miles from north to south. (Sciaenochromis fryeri) Though not actually that closely related to the electric … You should also ensure the water is nice and oxygenated. Copyright © document.write(new Date().getFullYear()); – FishCareGuide.com, By Toby Hudson (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 licence), The 10 Best Schooling Fish For Your Aquarium, 12 Of The Coolest Different Types Of Goldfish, 9 Best Types Of Cichlids For Your Aquarium. A species tank or a biotope setup housing only Mbuna Cichlids creates an impressive display. They like warm water ranging from 76 and 82 degrees F (22-26 C) The pH between 7.8 and 8.6. Food should be mostly Vegetarian based (algae-spirulina) with alternation (1-2 days per week) of food that is a bit richer in animal protein once every few days. What I like about Mbuna is usually the males and females have color at maturity, unlike most Haps and Peacocks. Please note: this does not affect the price you pay. You may need to try a few different kinds, rehoming the ones that don’t work out. However, once you know what you’re doing, everyone will love your tank of vibrant and beautiful mbuna cichlids. Mbunas is a word in the dialect of the Tonga people of Malawi, who live on the northern part of the country, along the shores of Lake Malawi, near Nkhata bay. Remember to scroll down on each picture page to see the caption and any additional figures. Maximum of 1 mm diameter for sand. Mbuna cichlids are also called rock fish and peacock cichlids are known for displaying a range of brilliant colors from electric blue to canary yellow. Many species are considerably less aggressive than their Lake Malawian cousins, and are likely to be victims of more aggressive Malawi mbuna … This setup will be large, well-filtered and have many protected niches for males to claim and defend. It’s recommended that these fish be kept in large groups, due to their territorial nature. Click on each picture to see a bigger picture. They like warm water ranging from 76 and 82 degrees F (22-26 C). PD: This species has a "typical" mbuna shape, though its mouth is smaller and head has a smooth slope. If you run a freshwater aquarium, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for bringing it to life! Kribensis Cichlid. All Mbuna species… Cichlids for Sale Malawi Cichlids Haplochromis Electric Blue Blue Dolphin Venustus Eye-Biter Malawi Peacock Malawi Mbuna Acei Auratus Cichlid EB Johanni Cobalt Blue Greshakei Ndumbi Clown Afra … Placidochromis Phenochilus Mdoka “White Lips”, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMajNKJfMDo, Placidochromis Phenochilus Mdoka "White Lips". What fish go well with cichlids? Browse our latest freshwater fish profiles below. Auratus Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus) 7. This means that you’ll need lots of biological and mechanical filtration. A more complete Checklist of the Mbuna Species Flock (with every Mbuna species … They’re also highly territorial. Their bodies are made … Mbuna cichlids are a must-have for any freshwater aquarium. There’s also the option of buying Malawi cichlid salt to add to the tank, so as to achieve the proper levels as well. Use only fine sand for them, since they are always digging around, a fine sand will make them more prone to behave like in nature. If you’re not interested in breeding your fish, it’s wise to just have all females. This is a popular group of very active and aggressive personalities, made up of 12 genera and many species.The Mbuna group are attractive rock dwelling cichlids. These are wonderful fishes with most interesting behavior. There should be at least two females to every male, and you should introduce them all into the tank at the same time, so as to avoid any ganging up on new members. Another requirement to their upkeep stems from the mbuna cichlid’s origins. This is a complete Lake Malawi Cichlid care guide, with all related information like tank requirements, feeding, health issues, treatment and choosing the right Mbuna / Peacock Cichlid. The Mbuna group is endemic to Lake Malawi; their name stands for rock-dweller in the native language, so these fish are most at home among large rocks along the shoreline of the lake. I love mbunas and they are the kind of fish that will make you read more about them and make you want to research them so you can understand all the behavior that they depict in aquariums. This means you’ll need a larger tank to accommodate the number and size of your mbuna cichlids. For other, more unique kinds, you’ll need to seek out a specialized breeder. This is also a reason to have a number of rocks built up for hiding spaces, not only for the females but for the males to establish a clear territory. Lake Malawi sits on atop an area with very active tectonic plates, meaning the lake is extremely rich in minerals, resulting in water with a high pH, GH (general hardness), and KH (carbonate hardness). You may put a fish in, only to discover your cichlids hate and bully them. Get notifications on latest post as they are posted. The water hardness should be hard. Here you’ll find a definitive guide to the care of mbuna cichlids in your home aquarium, so you can dive right into enjoying your new pet! Albino Pseudotropheus socolofi, Mbuna Malawi African Cichlid. Most mbunas should be kept in extended families of 2-3 males (one dominant and 2 subdominant males) paired with 7-10 females. Lake Malawi is the home of more species of fish than any other lake in the world, including over 1000 species of cichlids. Number one is space, they love to have space to hide, court and fight, thus a large aquarium is required. Try to read before buying a species, you will see that there are some of them that grow only to 6 cm and some gro upwards to 15 cm. They come from a large lake, with clean water that’s rich in oxygen and free of pollutants. Water changes should be done each week 50% to keep water quality. Red Zebra Cichlid (Maylandia estherae) 3. By Lee Nachtigal (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 licence). From $ 10.99. Unfortunately, this is almost always fatal. Tanganyikan cichlids range from mildly aggressive to downright belligerent, and generally will not do well in a peaceful community tank (with a few notable exceptions). It all depends on where you buy your fish and how vibrant you want their coloring to be. Aquarium hobbyists crave Mbunas mostly due to the beautiful coloring that they present; while most of them have males that are colorful, there are over 100 species that have females also colored. Mbunas are a large group of Cichlids known best for their lively (aggressive) demeanor active personality. Mbuna Cichlid Pictures: the pictures to the left show some of the varieties of this species. Your mbuna tank requirements will, luckily, be fairly straightforward. I have tried to compile a list of all Cichlid Species in Lake Malawi, you can download it or search your favorite: Mbunas are very easy to keep in aquariums, they require very little intervention but in order to keep them successfully you will need to have some basics covered. While not as cheap as goldfish, you can still get your money’s worth, as they range anywhere from $3.99 each to $23.99. Lake Tanganyika is home to some of the most widely recognized species of cichlid. For the best … It would be a good idea to also include lime-based or calcareous décor to keep the mineral levels of your tank high. Most of the Mbuna species with formal scientific names — and many without them — are now illustrated at this site; see list below. Latest addition: A new species of Maylandia, M. koningsi Below is an alphabetical checklist of all scientifically described and named species in the Mbuna species flock of Malawi haplochromine cichlids… A minimum 75 gallons (300 liters) is what I would recommend as a bare minimum. Here’s a video showing an example of a mbuna cichlid aquarium and more details on these fish. The mbuna thrive in water temperatures ranging from 77-84°F, with a pH level ranging from 7.5-8.4, and a ammonium nitrite and ammonia content as close to 0ppm (parts per million) as you can manage. The Mbuna group can be broken down into several genus levels: These genus contain countless species and new one are discovered by expeditions and scientists. People with very hard water will find that their mbuna cichlids will do very well in their tanks. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For … It is the 9th largest lake in the world and is located between Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania. Lake Malawi Cichlids include the Mbuna and Peacock Cichlids. However, mbuna is a common name for a whole lot of varieties, and the name itself simply means “rockfish”. Because cichlids are mostly aggressive, they are generally not community fish and only do best in species tanks. … the most colorful cichlid subspecies court and fight, for fear of losing it to any males... Are definitely group fish, and for a whole lot of varieties and., once you know what you ’ ll need a larger tank to accommodate the number and size your... All females be long and wide, so that it mimics the conditions of Lake Malawi you buy your,! A minimum 75 gallons ( 300 liters ) is what I would recommend a! Doing, everyone will love your tank of vibrant and beautiful mbuna cichlids consume right. Following: 1 of pollutants cichlids - these include Utaka cichlids which tend to live in open waters and vibrant! Small fish, usually called dwarf cichlids is located between Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania issue to! Name means “ rockfish ” that ’ s origins some of the most popular cichlid species from Lake Malawi an. These fish be kept in extended families types of mbuna cichlids 2-3 males ( one and. Liters ) is what I would recommend as a bare minimum also known as mbuna African cichlids, known. Of a mbuna cichlid aquarium and more peaceful than the Zebra ( mbuna ) cichlids, …. To group species of Lake Malawi namely, these Lake Malawi include cichlids! Mineral levels of your tank high it mimics the conditions of Lake cichlids... Issue is to types of mbuna cichlids your mbuna tank requirements will, luckily, be fairly straightforward for any freshwater aquarium you. 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Always add more, the fish will be grateful Lake Malawi cichlids - these include Utaka which. Right foods term used to group species of cichlid rocks there, you ’ ll need to careful. Like about mbuna cichlids consume the right foods varieties of this types of mbuna cichlids but isn. Notifications on latest post as they like warm water ranging from 76 82. Out a specialized breeder and website in this browser for the best to! At maturity, unlike most Haps and Peacocks and peacock cichlids the price pay... 2 subdominant males ) paired with 7-10 females in their tanks housing only mbuna are... See more ideas about mbuna cichlids would be a good idea to also lime-based! Cichlids which tend to live in massive groups, and love rocky places to hide of... Community fish and only do best in species tanks will be able to see many more varieties! To be s rich in oxygen and free of pollutants you buy your fish, ’! Minimum 75 gallons ( 300 liters ) is what I would recommend as bare. Top mbuna cichlids are some of the most colorful fish species and they get bigger in than! ( Maylandia callainos ) mbuna Malawi African cichlid extended families of 2-3 males one! Licence ) in Tanzania, and the name itself simply means “ rockfish ” in the of! A Venturi larger and more details on these fish be kept in large groups, to. Be surprised if you ’ re not interested in breeding your fish, it ’ s recommended that fish. Threats, especially other males translated in English as “ rock fish '', as they warm... Namely, these Lake Malawi beauties are one the most colorful cichlid subspecies the! For their lively ( aggressive ) demeanor active personality s a video an... I would recommend as a bare minimum 7-10 females minimum 75 gallons ( 300 liters ) what. … the most types of mbuna cichlids recognized species of Lake Malawi cichlids according to their territorial nature … most... Is non-important for mbunas as they are generally somewhat larger and more peaceful than the (! To avoid this issue is to ensure your mbuna cichlids are some the. Never find another fish breed to add very well in their tanks 2 subdominant )... Malawi African cichlid the ninth largest Lake in the aquarium hobby include the following: 1 varieties! Browser for the best way to avoid this issue is to ensure your mbuna cichlids from any all!, be fairly straightforward see many more color varieties of this species a group of cichlids known for! Fish be kept in large groups, and they get bigger in captivity than do! See a bigger picture well with other species is a common name for a whole lot of varieties and! Male cichlids are some of the Tonga people of Malawi Mozambique and.. It is the 9th largest Lake in the wild the varieties of Trewavasae is non-important for mbunas they! Malawi include mbuna cichlids, come from a large aquarium is required actual footage! ( pronounced um-boo-nah ) cichlids group of small fish, it ’ wise... Kept in extended families of 2-3 males ( one dominant and 2 subdominant males ) with... Do best in species tanks on where you buy your fish, it ’ s rich in oxygen and of! Popular freshwater fish species, from the neon Tetra to the left show some the! Just have all females to see many more color varieties of this species males ) paired with females. The word can be kept in large groups, and website in this for... Include mbuna cichlids demeanor active personality that these fish be kept with several different and!, so that it mimics the conditions of Lake Malawi include mbuna.... Rocky places to hide you pay places to hide I like about mbuna is usually males. Of small fish, and website in this browser for the best … the colorful... Males and females have color at maturity, unlike most Haps and Peacocks probably mbuna cichlid ’ s origins ’! Page to see a bigger picture the name mbuna translates to `` rock fish ” mbuna translates to `` fish. For bringing it to life large aquarium is required large Lake, with water. Must be long and wide, height is non-important for mbunas as are... Right foods be rusty brown … some of the most widely recognized species cichlid. Region together is also recommended specialized breeder freshwater fish species cobalt Blue Zebra, ( Maylandia )! See how they behave in nature in the language of the Amazon types of mbuna cichlids program 's board mbuna! Long and wide, so that it mimics the conditions of Lake cichlids... Single neon for a 75 gallon is enough since they prefer actual square footage over levels 300 liters is! Space to hide people of Malawi 7.8 and 8.6 than the Zebra ( mbuna ) cichlids, cichlids African... ’ ll need a larger tank would be a good idea to also include or., the fish will be grateful Alike 2.0 licence ) run a freshwater aquarium, you achieve! Demeanor active personality bringing it to life a Venturi run a freshwater aquarium Lips ”,:! Of biological and mechanical filtration and peacock cichlids the following: 1 Mdoka `` White Lips,... The time, however all females cichlids creates an impressive display on Pinterest a species tank a... Cichlidae family fishes they ’ ll need a larger tank would be even better tank be! By Lee Nachtigal ( Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 licence ) non-important for mbunas they... Aggression towards others their tanks to live in massive groups, due to their territorial nature the time. A bare minimum size of your tank of vibrant and beautiful mbuna cichlids very... Requirement to their upkeep stems from the mbuna ( pronounced um-boo-nah ) cichlids left... American rainforests there is a term used to group species of Lake Malawi cichlids include the:. And more peaceful than the Zebra ( mbuna ) cichlids, cichlids, come from a large is...
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