Petrotilapia genalutea

Petrotilapia genalutea is distinguished by its striking yellow cheek patch set against a predominantly blue-black body — the species name 'genalutea' means 'yellow cheek' in Latin, directly referencing this characteristic. Like its congener P. tridentiger, it possesses the distinctive tricuspid raking teeth of the Petrotilapia genus and is among the largest mbuna species available in the hobby.

Found across rocky habitats in Lake Malawi, P. genalutea is a dominant species that occupies prime aufwuchs-rich territories. Different locality populations may show slight variations in the extent of yellow cheek colouration and body colour intensity. Tank-bred specimens are available but wild-caught fish are sometimes imported for dedicated cichlid collections.

In the aquarium, P. genalutea is an advanced species requiring a large, well-filtered aquarium with extensive rockwork. The yellow cheek marking makes it visually distinctive and it can serve as a statement fish in a large Malawi species collection. Strict herbivore nutrition is non-negotiable for long-term health.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 7.8-8.5, hard alkaline; high filtration capacity; regular large water changes. Tank: 400L minimum; large boulders and caves; this species needs space to establish dominance without killing rivals. Feeding: Strictly herbivore — spirulina, algae wafers, Nori, blanched greens; never beef heart or worms. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder with large clutches; male courtship is vigorous; females need refuge post-spawning. Compatibility: Very aggressive; large Malawi cichlid specialists only; pair with other large assertive mbuna.