Metriaclima estherae 'Red' Female

Metriaclima estherae 'Red' Female refers specifically to the striking all-red or orange-red female morph of the Red Zebra Cichlid, a species that exhibits remarkable polymorphism. While males are typically blue with or without dark barring, the red female morph displays full-body orange-red colouration with few or no markings, making them among the most colourful female cichlids available in the hobby.

Native to the rocky shores around Minos Reef and several other locales in Lake Malawi, M. estherae is a bold, active mbuna that scrapes algae (Aufwuchs) from rocks. These females are vigorous breeders and mouthbrood their clutch for 21–28 days. The red female form breeds true to type when maintained in isolated populations. Hard, alkaline water is essential, as is a well-structured rocky aquarium providing territories and retreat zones.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); use Rift Lake mineral salts if tap water is soft. Tank: Minimum 200 L with extensive rockwork; break up lines of sight to reduce female harassment by males. Feeding: Algae-based diet — spirulina flake and pellets as primary food; occasional vegetable matter. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; female holds fry 21–28 days; strip or isolate female at day 18–21 for higher fry survival. Compatibility: Suitable for mixed mbuna tanks; avoid housing with Aulonocara or peaceful cichlids that will be outcompeted.