Melanochromis dialeptos

Melanochromis dialeptos is a seldom-imported dwarf mbuna species from shallow rocky biotopes of Lake Malawi, with males showing intricate blue-black horizontal striping on a relatively slender body. Its smaller adult size makes it a practical choice for moderately sized African cichlid setups. Typical Melanochromis aggression requires plenty of rockwork.

House in an aquarium of at least 150 L with hard alkaline water and abundant rockwork for territory. Feed cichlid pellets, spirulina, and algae-based foods. Aggressive toward conspecifics; keep 1 male with multiple females. Compatible with other moderate-aggression mbuna of similar size.