African Cichlid - Electric Yellow - Labidochromis caeruleus

African Cichlid – Electric Yellow (Labidochromis caeruleus)

The Electric Yellow Cichlid, also known as the Yellow Lab, is a vibrant freshwater fish native to the rocky shores of Lake Malawi in East Africa. Its striking yellow coloration and relatively peaceful demeanor make it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts.

Product Details:

• Species: Labidochromis caeruleus
• Common Names: Electric Yellow Cichlid, Yellow Lab, Lemon Yellow Lab, Yellow Prince
• Origin: Lake Malawi, East Africa
• Diet: Omnivore
• pH Range: 7.0 – 8.5
• Water Hardness: Hard
• Temperature: 24°C – 26°C (75°F – 79°F)
• Maximum Size: Approximately 10 cm (4 inches)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Available Size: 4–5 cm

Care Guidelines:

• Aquarium Setup: A minimum tank size of 120 liters (approximately 30 gallons) is suitable for a pair of Electric Yellow Cichlids. However, they thrive in larger aquariums, especially when kept in groups of six or more. Providing a tank with a substantial footprint is beneficial, as these cichlids are bottom dwellers. Incorporate plenty of rocks and caves to mimic their natural habitat and offer hiding spots, which help reduce aggression and provide security.

• Water Parameters: Maintain a pH between 7.0 and 8.5, with hard water conditions. A stable temperature range of 24°C – 26°C (75°F – 79°F) is ideal. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential to preserve water quality.

• Diet: Electric Yellow Cichlids are omnivores. Provide a balanced diet that includes high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes, supplemented with vegetable matter such as spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, lettuce, and peas. Occasional protein sources like live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and larvae can be offered. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity and maintain water quality.

• Behavior and Compatibility: While relatively peaceful compared to other African cichlids, Electric Yellows can exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding. They are best kept with other Mbuna species or similarly sized African cichlids that can tolerate higher pH levels. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive species or those requiring significantly different water parameters. Providing ample hiding spots and maintaining appropriate stocking levels can help mitigate territorial disputes.

Breeding Information:

Electric Yellow Cichlids are mers. Females carry fertilized eggs and, later, fry in their mouths for about three weeks. To encourage breeding, maintain optimal water conditions and provide a suitable environment with plenty of hiding spots. Observing the female's behavior, such as a refusal to eat and a bulging mouth, can indicate she is carrying eggs or fry. It's advisable to use a separate breeding tank to reduce stress and protect the fry once released. 

Availability:

The Electric Yellow Cichlid is available for purchase at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Please note that stock levels are updated in real-time; however, we recommend contacting the store to confirm current availability.

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