Melanochromis auratus - Golden Auratus (one of the more aggressive of the mbuna) Best kept as a maximum of two within a mixed malawi tank. Males will turn black at the bottom of their bodies as they mature while females retain the golden colour.

Mbuna Information:

There are around 150 different species of Mbuna Cichlid to be found in Lake Malawi. As a generalisation, Mbuna prefer rocky environments and are usually found closer to shore in shallower waters. As with all African cichlids, they should only be kept with other African cichlids due to their aggressive nature.

These are a really boisterous group of cichlids and rarely stay still, they come in a very wide range of colours and patterns and have a hierarchical nature, with one usually being in charge and all the others on the ladder rungs below. Often there is one at the bottom of the pecking order who will look slightly tatty as they are the one most often picked on and will bear the brunt of the aggression in the tank. These cichlids should be overstocked and provided caves and hiding places and should be very well filtered.

Although easy to care for and extremely hardy, cichlids should be fully researched before you make a commitment to keep them as they are relatively long lived and aggressive.

 

Maximum size: 12cm

Lifespan: 8-10 years

Temperature: 24-27 degrees celsius

Tank requirements: High Powered Filter & Oxygen, Heater

Tank Mates: Other Malawi Cichlids.

Feeding: Good Quality Spirulina Flake or Pellets