Melanochromis Cyaneorhabdos

Datasheet

General Description

Melanochromis Cyaneorhabdos, commonly known as Maingano, is a cichlid species endemic to Lake Malawi. It exhibits an overall blueish coloration in dominant males and can reach a maximum size of 10.0cm. This species was previously misidentified as "electric blue" Johanni. They are distinguishable from similar species like M. Johanni by their distinct coloring.

Aquarium Setup

For keeping Maingano, a minimum tank size of 160 litres is recommended. The aquarium should be densely populated with piles of rocks forming caves and open water spaces. A sandy substrate is ideal, and the water must be well-oxygenated with a pH range of 7.6-8.8, hardness between 10-25 dH, and a temperature of 24-28°C.

Behaviour

Maingano cichlids are known to be aggressive and territorial fish. It's advised not to house them with peaceful species like Peacocks or Utaka, but they can coexist with other Mbuna. To reduce aggression and territorial behavior, the tank should be overcrowded, and multiple females should be present per male to minimize harassment. The presence of heterospecifics helps dissipate aggression, and the species is intolerant of its own kind.

Feeding and Diet

These cichlids have an omnivorous diet and readily accept various types of food. Vegetables such as spirulina flakes and blanched spinach should constitute a significant portion of their diet. This can be supplemented with live and frozen food varieties to ensure a balanced nutritional intake.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction in Maingano cichlids is relatively straightforward as they are maternal mouthbrooders. Spawning should occur in a species tank with one male and at least three females. The male fish displays intense coloration and aggression during mating. Females lay eggs near the male's chosen site and immediately pick them up in their mouths for fertilization. Females can carry the eggs for up to 3-4 weeks before releasing the fry. Sexual dimorphism is difficult to distinguish, although males tend to grow slightly larger.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, Maingano cichlids inhabit rocky shorelines in the northeastern region of Likoma Island in Lake Malawi. They are only found in a specific locality between the points of Mbako and Membe.