Maylandia sandaracinos

Maylandia sandaracinos, commonly called the Yellow Belly Zebra, is a striking variant within the zebra group distinguished by the vivid yellow-orange colouration on the belly and lower flanks of adult males. The upper body retains the classic blue-and-dark-bar zebra pattern, creating a striking two-tone body. This contrasting combination makes males highly distinctive in a mixed mbuna community.

Originating from the Tanzanian coast of Lake Malawi, this species inhabits rocky shorelines at shallow to moderate depths. Like other Maylandia species it is primarily herbivorous and highly territorial. The yellow-orange belly colouration suggests a connection to the OB colour genetics present elsewhere in the zebra complex.

In the aquarium, M. sandaracinos is a lively and active species. Carotenoid-rich feeding maximises the yellow-orange belly colouration, while spirulina enhances the blue upper body. Standard mbuna management applies — a harem social structure, heavy rockwork, and an alkaline diet to prevent digestive disorders.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 7.8-8.5, hard alkaline; stable, well-oxygenated water conditions. Tank: 200L minimum; rocky aquascape with good lighting to display the two-tone body colour. Feeding: Spirulina pellets plus carotenoid supplement to maximise yellow-belly colouration; Nori accepted. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; 15-25 eggs per clutch; straightforward breeding under stable conditions. Compatibility: Moderately aggressive; standard mbuna community species; one male per species.