Maingano Cichlid

Maingano Cichlids are striking rock-dwelling Mbuna from Lake Malawi, known for their intense electric blue and black horizontal striping. Active and territorial, they thrive in hard, alkaline water with plenty of rockwork to establish territories. These cichlids do best in species-specific or Mbuna-only setups with adequate space to reduce aggression.

• Temperature: 75–80°F

• pH: 7.8–8.6 — Adapted to Tallahassee tap water

• Hardness: 10–20 dGH

• Temperament: Aggressive, especially toward similar-looking fish

• Recommended Group Size: One male with 4 or more females

• Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons (55+ recommended for groups)

• Max Size: 4–5 inches

• Diet: Spirulina-based flakes or pellets, Hikari Cichlid Excel, NorthFin Veggie Formula, supplemented with blanched vegetables (avoid high-protein foods to prevent bloat)