Maingano Cichlid (Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameMelanochromis cyaneorhabdos

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asElectric Blue Maingano, Blue Johanni, Melanochromis maingano

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietOmnivore

Adult size4 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

Water parametersTemp 76-82°F, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Dark navy-blue body with several bright electric-blue horizontal stripes running the full length; sexes look alike.

Difficulty and care for the Maingano Cichlid

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Malawi, Africa

Keeper notes

Territorial and aggressive; unusually for the genus both sexes share the same coloration, so sexing is difficult. Keep groups to spread aggression.

Log Maingano 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 Maingano Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.

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