Masinje Zebra Metriaclima sp. "Masinje Zebra" Masinje Zebra is a Lake Malawi mbuna with the active personality, rockwork behavior, and bold zebra-type look that make Metriaclima popular in African cichlid aquariums. It is a strong choice for keepers who want a colorful, territorial mbuna that stays manageable in the right setup. Origin and Habitat Native Region: Lake Malawi, Masinje-area zebra-type stock in the aquarium trade. Natural Habitat: Rocky shoreline habitat where mbuna graze and defend territories. Physical Characteristics Size: Up to about 6 inches. Coloration: Males develop stronger color and pattern with maturity; females are generally more subdued. Body Shape: Robust zebra-type mbuna body built for moving through rocks. Behavior and Temperament Temperament: Mildly aggressive. Social Behavior: Best in a mbuna community with rockwork, sight breaks, and compatible fish of similar size. Aquarium Care Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended. Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water. Tank Setup: Provide sand, stacked rockwork, caves, grazing surfaces, and strong filtration. Diet and Feeding Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Mbuna Food. Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food. Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food. Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding. Breeding Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder. Breeding Notes: Males defend rocky territories and display to females. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release. Tank Mates Compatible With: Other Lake Malawi mbuna and similarly sized African cichlids. Avoid: Look-alike males in cramped tanks, very small fish, and delicate community species.
