Parallel Stripe Mbuna (Melanochromis parallelus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameMelanochromis parallelus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asParallelus Cichlid, Melanochromis parallelus

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietOmnivore

Adult size5 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

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

Appearance

Males dark with light horizontal stripes; females golden-yellow with dark stripes. Similar in pattern to johannii/auratus.

Difficulty and care for the Parallel Stripe Mbuna

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Malawi, Africa

Keeper notes

Aggressive Melanochromis; keep harems of one male to several females with plentiful territories. Males intolerant of rivals.

Log Parallel Stripe Mbuna 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 Parallel Stripe Mbuna alongside everything else in your reef.

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