Melanochromis interruptus

Melanochromis interruptus is a mbuna from Lake Malawi within the highly aggressive Melanochromis genus. Its common name references the 'interrupted' or broken horizontal stripe pattern on the flanks — a feature that distinguishes it from other more uniformly striped Melanochromis species. Males display dark bodies with pale interrupted lateral markings; females show the typical colour-inverted pattern of the genus with yellowish ground colouration and darker stripes.

As with all Melanochromis, extreme caution is required when housing multiple males, as fatal aggression between rival males is common without sufficient space and territory structure. A 1M:4F+ ratio in a 250+ L tank with maximum rockwork is strongly recommended. Females are maternal mouthbrooders holding eggs and fry for 21–28 days. An algae-based diet prevents the Malawi bloat that animal protein regularly triggers. Recommended for experienced Malawi cichlid keepers only.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); consistent water quality through regular partial changes. Tank: 250 L minimum; one male only; heavy rockwork providing multiple female refuges and sight-line breaks. Feeding: Algae-based diet — spirulina flake and pellets; no bloodworm or similar high-protein foods. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; female holds 21–28 days; remove brooding female promptly to a recovery tank. Compatibility: Aggressive; best with other Melanochromis-grade robust mbuna; not suitable for community or mixed-temperament tanks.