Petrotilapia chitimba

Petrotilapia chitimba is a large mbuna species from the rocky shores near Chitimba on the western side of Lake Malawi. Males display vivid electric-blue colouration and are among the more impressively sized mbuna, reaching 15 cm or more. The genus Petrotilapia is characterised by enlarged, tricuspid teeth specifically adapted for scraping dense Aufwuchs algae mats from rock surfaces — a feeding specialisation not shared by most mbuna.

Due to its large size and intense territoriality, P. chitimba requires a larger tank than most mbuna — a minimum of 300 L is recommended for a harem group. Males are extremely aggressive toward conspecifics and similarly coloured species. Females are drab brownish-grey and mouthbrood for approximately 21–28 days. An exclusively algae-based diet is mandatory; animal protein causes severe Malawi bloat in Petrotilapia. This is a species for experienced mbuna keepers with appropriately large systems.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); high-capacity filtration essential due to large size and waste production. Tank: 300 L minimum; extensive stacked rockwork; keep only one male per tank unless system exceeds 500 L. Feeding: Strictly algae-based — spirulina flake, algae pellets, algae wafers, blanched greens; no animal protein under any circumstances. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; female holds 21–28 days; isolate brooding female in a calm tank for best fry survival. Compatibility: Large mbuna only; extremely aggressive — do not mix with Aulonocara, haps, or any peaceable cichlids.