Metriaclima sp. 'Thicklip'

Metriaclima sp. 'Thicklip' is an undescribed species within the Metriaclima genus distinguished by its pronouncedly thickened, rubbery lips — an adaptation for scraping Aufwuchs algae from rock surfaces more efficiently. Males display typical blue-and-dark-barred Metriaclima patterning, while the thick lips give the face a distinctive, almost pouty appearance that sets the species apart visually.

The thick lips are a convergent adaptation shared by several unrelated mbuna lineages and should not be confused with lip-locking injuries. This species occupies rocky shoreline habitat in Lake Malawi where lip morphology provides a feeding advantage on algae-encrusted rocks. As with all mbuna, it is aggressive and territorial. Breeding follows the standard mbuna maternal mouthbrooding pattern, with females incubating for 21–28 days. Strong filtration, hard alkaline water, and an algae-rich diet are essential.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); weekly partial water changes maintain quality. Tank: Minimum 200 L; provide textured rockwork that mimics natural algae-coated surfaces for behavioural enrichment. Feeding: Algae-heavy diet — spirulina flake, algae wafers, and blanched greens; the thick lips are adapted for this type of foraging. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; hold period approximately 21–28 days; remove brooding female to reduce stress. Compatibility: Mix with other similarly aggressive mbuna; avoid timid species; do not mix with thin-lipped Metriaclima to prevent hybridisation.