Petrotilapia sp. 'Mara Point'

Petrotilapia sp. 'Mara Point' is an undescribed Petrotilapia species associated with the Mara Point locality on the eastern shore of Lake Malawi. Males display vivid blue to blue-grey colouration with dark vertical barring. The species shares the genus's hallmark tricuspid dentition, an adaptation for aggressive scraping of Aufwuchs algae from rock faces at shallow to intermediate depths.

Collector interest in Mara Point Petrotilapia is driven by the locale specificity and slightly different colouration compared to other Petrotilapia forms. Behaviour is typical of the genus: highly aggressive between males, strongly territorial, and dependent on an exclusively algae-based diet. Managing in a 1M:3–4F configuration in a 250–300 L+ tank with abundant rockwork gives the best outcomes. Maternal mouthbrooding females hold eggs and fry for 21–28 days. Not suitable for beginner cichlid keepers.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); heavy-duty filtration essential; weekly 25–30% water changes. Tank: 250–300 L minimum; rock structures dominating the tank interior; no soft plants or gentle tankmates. Feeding: Algae-based exclusively — spirulina pellets, flake, and algae wafers; avoid any animal-based protein. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; isolate female during the 21–28 day brooding period for best fry survival. Compatibility: Large robust mbuna only; keep one male per tank; avoid all peaceful species.