Cobalt Blue Zebra

Metriaclima callainos is one of the classic mbuna from Lake Malawi, found along rocky shorelines where it grazes algae from rocks. Males and females are both blue, though males are a more intense, uniform cobalt blue. It is one of the hardier mbuna species and an excellent starter fish for those setting up their first Malawi aquarium.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, hard alkaline water; tolerates some variation. Tank: 200L minimum with dense rockwork for territory establishment. Feeding: Algae-based staple food; spirulina flake or pellets; limit protein to avoid bloat. Behaviour: Territorial with conspecifics and similar-looking species; typical mbuna aggression. Compatibility: Classic mbuna community with other Metriaclima and Pseudotropheus.