Cynotilapia afra 'Cobue' OB

Cynotilapia afra 'Cobue' OB is the orange blotch polymorphic morph of the Cobue locale Afra Cichlid from the Mozambican shoreline of Lake Malawi near Cobue. This form combines the Cobue population's vivid blue-and-barred base colouration with the OB gene's irregular orange and black blotching, producing uniquely patterned individuals — no two fish look exactly alike.

As a Cynotilapia, this form shares the genus's unicuspid dentition enabling zooplankton consumption alongside algae grazing, making the diet slightly broader than strict mbuna. The Cobue locale is known for producing intensely coloured afra with strong blue tones. The OB gene does not affect behaviour — these fish are just as territorial as typical afra. Management follows standard afra husbandry: harem groups, rocky tanks, hard alkaline water, and maternal mouthbrooding females holding for 21–28 days.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); Rift Lake mineral supplement for soft tap water areas. Tank: 200 L minimum; rock structures with caves and territories; some midwater open space for this active midwater swimmer. Feeding: Spirulina flake and pellets with frozen brine shrimp, Mysis, and cyclops; broader dietary range than typical mbuna. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; OB trait is dominant; female holds 21–28 days; isolate for fry protection. Compatibility: Moderate aggression; suitable for mixed mbuna; avoid mixing with other Cynotilapia afra locales to maintain locale integrity.