Pseudotropheus Maylandia Zebra Red Malawi African Cichlid

Overview

The Red Zebra is a Lake Malawi mbuna sold in a rich orange-red colour form, usually derived from Maylandia estherae from the Mozambique shore of the lake. Wild males are often pale blue while females carry the orange, though tank-bred lines can be orange in both sexes. Hardy, lively and quick to breed, it suits an established rocky mbuna community with strong filtration.

• Adult Size: Around 11–12 cm (4.5 in); males larger
• Lifespan: 8–10 years

Origin

• Native to: Lake Malawi, eastern (Mozambique) rocky shore
• Habitat: Boulder shorelines, grazing algae on rock surfaces

Feeding

• Diet: Herbivorous, aufwuchs grazer
• Preferred Foods: Spirulina flakes, algae wafers, blanched spinach, nori, daphnia, cyclops
• Feeding Habits: Two small feeds daily; vegetable based; avoid rich meaty foods, which cause bloat

Tank Mates

• Best with: Other robust mbuna of contrasting colour; Labidochromis, Iodotropheus, Labeotropheus
• Avoid: Other Maylandia colour forms (hybridise), peaceful or slow species

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Aggressive, though milder than Blue Zebra; males dominant
• Territoriality: Males defend caves; overstocking and rockwork diffuse aggression

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Challenges: Aggression management; strong filtration and weekly changes for a heavily stocked tank

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, hard and alkaline
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 7.5–8.5
• Hardness: 10–20 dGH
• Flow: Moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 250 litres for one male with several females

Final Notes

Plan for a large, rock-filled tank and a harem of one male to several females; it is a maternal mouthbrooder that breeds readily. Sexing can be tricky in orange lines, so vent or watch behaviour. Never house it with Blue Zebra or other Maylandia, as hybrids are common. With sand, stacked rock and a vegetable diet, the Red Zebra gives some of the brightest orange in a Malawi tank.