Cyprichromis sp. 'Mpulungu Yellow'

Cyprichromis sp. 'Mpulungu Yellow' is a colour variant collected from around Mpulungu harbour in southern Zambia that produces arguably the most striking male colouration of any Cyprichromis — a canary-yellow head and anterior body transitions sharply into a deep cobalt-blue posterior, with contrasting yellow and blue caudal fin lobes completing the palette. Females are more modestly coloured in silver-grey but are still attractive in their own right.

The species follows the standard Cyprichromis breeding biology: open-water maternal mouthbrooding with males forming display leks in the mid-water column. Courtship is a spectacular visual event in a group of ten or more individuals, with males rising and falling in synchronised displays while females make their mate-selection circuits. The species is entirely non-aggressive and can be safely combined with virtually all peaceful Tanganyika cichlids.

For best colouration, maintain Mpulungu Yellow Cyprichromis in hard alkaline water with good flow and oxygenation, keep groups of at least eight to ten fish, and feed a varied diet rich in zooplankton-based frozen foods such as Artemia and Cyclops. Carotenoid-enriched food items will further intensify the yellow head colouration.

Water: pH 7.8–9.0, GH 10–20, KH 8–16, temperature 24–27 °C; excellent oxygenation. Tank: 150 L+; tall tank preferred; clear mid-water swimming zone. Feeding: Frozen Artemia, Cyclops, Daphnia; colour-enhancing cichlid pellets; twice daily. Breeding: Open-water maternal mouthbrooder; female holds ~3 weeks; separate for fry release. Compatibility: Completely peaceful; ideal with Lamprologine shell dwellers and sand-zone cichlids.