Maingano cichlid
Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos, universally known as the maingano, is a slender mbuna endemic to the rocky shores of Maingano at Likoma Island in Lake Malawi. Both sexes are strikingly similar, deep electric-blue-black bodies crossed by two brilliant light-blue horizontal stripes, making it one of the most attractive mbuna. At around 9 cm it is smaller than many relatives but still territorial and moderately aggressive, especially between males. Keep a group of one male with three or more females in a tank of at least 250 litres with plentiful rock caves. Provide hard, alkaline water (pH 7.7-8.6) at 24-27C. It is an opportunistic omnivore; feed a spirulina-based staple with some protein foods in moderation to prevent bloat. Maternal mouthbrooder that colours up beautifully in a Malawi community.
Water parameters
| Temperature | 24 – 27 °C |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.7 – 8.6 |
| Carbonate hardness (KH) | 10 – 18 °dKH |
| General hardness (GH) | 10 – 20 °dGH |
Tank & stocking
| Minimum tank volume | 250 L |
|---|---|
| Volume budget per individual | 35 L — adds up with tank-mates |
| Minimum group size | 4 individuals (shoaling) |
“Minimum tank volume” is a reasonable floor, not an absolute limit. The per-individual budget is used by the Aqua app to estimate how heavily a tank is stocked.
Frequently asked questions
What size aquarium does Maingano cichlid need?
Provide at least 250 litres for a small group to keep Maingano cichlid in good conditions.
What water parameters does Maingano cichlid need?
A temperature of 24–27 °C, pH 7.7–8.6.
Is Maingano cichlid peaceful or aggressive?
Its temperament is semi-aggressive.
What does Maingano cichlid eat?
Its diet: omnivore.
How many Maingano cichlid should be kept together?
It is a social species: keep a group of at least 4.
How big does Maingano cichlid get?
Around 9 cm as an adult.
Is Maingano cichlid suitable for beginners?
Care level: intermediate.
Planning a tank with Maingano cichlid?
AquaTender turns these parameters into live advice: it checks whether your tank is big enough, how heavily it's stocked, and whether your fish are compatible — then tracks water tests, photos and maintenance for you.
Fish from the same biotope
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