Maylandia Callainos

Datasheet

General Description

The Maylandia Callainos, commonly known as the Cobalt Blue Zebra, was previously classified under different names such as Pseudotropheus callainos and Metriaclima callainos. Belonging to the Cichlidae family, this species is part of the 'zebra' group of Pseudotropheus, now denoted by the genus Maylandia. It comes in three primary color variations: "cobalt blue," "orange blotch," and "pearl zebra." Often mistaken for similar-looking species like M. estherae "red zebra" and M. benetos, it is a suitable choice for beginner aquarists with an occasional albino form available.

Aquarium Setup

For the Cobalt Blue Zebra, an aquarium setup of at least 110 litres is necessary, housing predominantly rocks forming caves with intermittent open water spaces. The substrate should be sandy, and well-oxygenated water with a temperature range of 24-28°C and a pH of 7.6-8.8 is crucial. The hardness level should be maintained between 8-25°dH. Please refer to the provided table for detailed water conditions.

Behaviour

This species exhibits aggressive and territorial behavior, so it is advised against housing them with peaceful species like Peacocks or Utaka. However, they can coexist with other Mbuna, preferably in an overcrowded tank to deter aggression and limit territorial behaviors. Intraspecific aggression can be managed by introducing heterospecifics, and maintaining a ratio of several females per male helps reduce male harassment.

Feeding and Diet

The Cobalt Blue Zebra is an omnivore and readily accepts various foods. Their diet should primarily consist of vegetable matter like spirulina flakes and blanched spinach, supplemented with live and frozen varieties for a balanced nutritional intake.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction in the Cobalt Blue Zebra is feasible, with females being maternal mouthbrooders. Ideally, breeding should occur in a species tank with one male and at least three females. Females carry the fertilized eggs in their mouths for up to 3-4 weeks before releasing the fry. Males exhibit brighter colors than females, a common sexual dimorphism in this species.

Habitat and Distribution

Endemic to Lake Malawi, the Cobalt Blue Zebra is primarily found in rocky areas around the north of the lake, ranging from Ikombe to the Ruhuhu River in the east and Kande Island to Ngara in the west. It has also been introduced to islands like Namalenje, Thumbi, and Likoma within the lake.