More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 200 litres / 52.83 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 11.0cm / 4.33inches |
| Temperature | 24°C / 75.20°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 10-25ºdH |
| pH | 7.6-8.8 |
General Description:
The Melanochromis Auratus, commonly known as the Golden Mbuna, is a cichlid species endemic to Lake Malawi. This species can reach a maximum size of 11.0cm and requires a minimum tank size of 200 litres. Melanochromis Auratus is identifiable by its golden coloration, but male individuals can revert to this color when stressed, while older females tend to darken with age.
Aquarium Setup:
To create an ideal habitat for the Golden Mbuna, the tank should be well oxygenated and contain piles of rocks arranged to form caves with open water spaces in between. A sandy substrate is recommended. Water conditions should have a pH between 7.6-8.8, hardness ranging from 10-25°dH, and a temperature of 24-28°C (see table).
Behaviour:
This species is highly aggressive and territorial, making it unsuitable for peaceful tankmates. To reduce aggression, the tank should be overcrowded with heterospecifics. Keeping multiple males requires a large tank, as sub-dominant males are at risk of being killed. It is advisable to have several females per male to reduce harassment, although female Golden Mbuna can also be intolerant of their own kind.
Feeding and Diet:
Golden Mbunas have an omnivorous diet and readily accept various food types. A significant portion of their diet should consist of vegetable matter such as spirulina flakes and blanched spinach, supplemented with live and frozen foods.
Reproduction & Dimorphism:
Reproduction in Melanochromis Auratus involves maternal mouthbrooding. Breeding should occur in a species-only tank with one male and at least three females. Mature males exhibit a dark coloration distinct from the golden females and juvenile/sub-dominant males. The fry are large enough to consume brine shrimp nauplii from birth.
Habitat and Distribution:
In their natural habitat, Golden Mbunas inhabit rocky areas along shorelines, reefs, and islands of Lake Malawi. They are commonly found along the western coast from Jalo Reef to Crocodile Rocks, throughout the southern end of the lake, and along the bottom of the eastern coast up to Nkhomo Reef.