Metriaclima aurora 'Chitande'

Metriaclima aurora 'Chitande' is a locale-specific form of M. aurora collected from the rocky shores of Chitande Island in the southern basin of Lake Malawi. Males display an intense electric-blue body overlaid with three to five black vertical bars, creating a dramatic contrast that intensifies during dominance displays. Females and subdominant males are drab brownish-grey, providing excellent camouflage against rocky substrate.

Like all mbuna, this species is highly territorial and best managed in a species tank or a mixed-mbuna setup with sufficient rockwork. Harems of one male to three or more females are recommended to spread aggression. As a maternal mouthbrooder, the female incubates eggs and fry in her buccal cavity for approximately three weeks before releasing free-swimming juveniles. A robust filtration system is essential given the high protein waste these cichlids generate.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); weekly water changes of 25–30% are essential. Tank: Minimum 200 L; stack rocks to the waterline creating caves and territories, with open sandy areas for foraging. Feeding: Primarily algae-based spirulina flake or pellet; supplement sparingly with Mysis shrimp — avoid high-protein foods to prevent Malawi bloat. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; remove brooding female to a separate tank to protect fry; hold 21–28 days before releasing. Compatibility: Keep with other robust mbuna of similar size; avoid slow or fin-nipping tankmates and do not house with Tropheus or predatory haps.