Red Zebra Cichlid (Maylandia estherae)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameMaylandia estherae

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asRed Zebra, Esther Grant's Zebra, Metriaclima estherae, Pseudotropheus estherae

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietHerbivore

Adult size5 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

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

Appearance

Stocky mbuna; most commonly bright tangerine-orange, though blue and blotched morphs exist. Females and males often both orange; males may show egg spots on the anal fin.

Difficulty and care for the Red Zebra Cichlid

Easy

Origin and habitat

Lake Malawi, Africa

Keeper notes

Classic mbuna aggression; keep in a harem of one male to several females to spread aggression. Males relentlessly chase females and rival males. Color is not sex-linked (both can be orange), complicating sexing.

Log Red Zebra Cichlid in your reef tank

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