African Cichlid - Cobalt Blue Zebra - Maylandia callainos

African Cichlid – Cobalt Blue Zebra (Maylandia callainos)

The Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid, native to the rocky shores of Lake Malawi in Africa, is renowned for its vibrant blue coloration and dynamic behavior. This species is a popular choice for cichlid enthusiasts seeking to add a splash of color to their freshwater aquariums.

Product Details:

• Species: Maylandia callainos
• Common Name: Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet: Omnivore/Herbivore
• pH Range: 7.5 – 8.5
• Water Hardness: Hard
• Temperature: 24°C (75°F)
• Maximum Size: Approximately 10 cm (4 inches)
• Breed Type: Mouthbrooder
• Available Size: 7 cm

Care Guidelines:

• Aquarium Setup: A tank size of 300–400 liters (approximately 80–100 gallons) is recommended to accommodate a group of more than 10 Mbuna cichlids, which helps distribute aggressive behavior. The aquarium should feature numerous rocks and caves to provide hiding spots and establish territories, along with a sandy or aragonite-based substrate to maintain the necessary high pH and alkalinity.

• Water Parameters: Maintain a pH between 7.5 and 8.5, with hard water conditions. A stable temperature around 24°C (75°F) is ideal. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential to preserve water quality.

• Diet: Provide a diet rich in vegetable matter, including high-quality flake or pellet foods formulated for herbivorous cichlids, supplemented with leafy seaweeds. Occasional offerings of blanched spinach or spirulina flakes can enhance their health and coloration.

• Behavior and Compatibility: Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlids are territorial and can be aggressive, especially during breeding. It's advisable to maintain a harem with one male and several females to reduce aggression. They can coexist with other Mbuna species but should not be housed with peace-loving fish such as Peacocks or Utaka. Providing ample hiding spots and maintaining a slightly overcrowded tank can help mitigate territorial disputes.

   

Breeding Information:

As maternal mouthbrooders, females carry fertilized eggs in their mouths until the fry are ready to be released. During this period, females may not eat, and it's recommended to provide a separate tank to reduce stress. After spawning, the female keeps the eggs in her mouth for about a week until they hatch. The fry will seek safety by retreating into the female’s mouth for up to a month. Once the fry are able to fend for themselves, the female stops allowing them in her mouth.

Availability:

The Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid is available fdle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Please note that stock levels are updated in real-time; however, we recommend contacting the store to confirm current availability.

For more information or to make a purchase, visit our website.