Bumblebee Cichlid (Pseudotropheus crabro)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Bumblebee Cichlid

Quick facts

Scientific namePseudotropheus crabro
FamilyCichlidae
Also known asHornet Cichlid, Chameleon Cichlid, Maylandia crabro
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentAggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size6 in
Minimum tank size55 gallons
Water parametersTemp 76-82°F, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Yellow body with bold black vertical bars; can shift to nearly all-dark when stressed or breeding (chameleon effect).

Difficulty and care for the Bumblebee Cichlid

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Malawi, Africa

Keeper notes

Large and aggressive mbuna; can darken dramatically with mood. Needs robust tankmates and ample space.

Log Bumblebee Cichlid in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Bumblebee Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.