Pseudotropheus elongatus 'Chewere'

Pseudotropheus elongatus 'Chewere' is the Chewere locale form of the elongate mbuna group — a slender, torpedo-shaped cichlid with a distinctly narrower body profile than typical mbuna. Males display vivid blue to blue-black colouration with bold dark barring. The elongated body shape is adapted for probing narrow rock crevices to access algae growth unavailable to thicker-bodied species.

Males of P. elongatus locales are particularly fierce, with extreme aggression levels even by mbuna standards. Only one male should be kept per tank regardless of tank size unless the system is very large. Multiple females (four or more) in a 250+ L tank with maximum rockwork is the minimum recommended configuration. Females are maternal mouthbrooders holding eggs and fry for approximately 21–28 days. The Chewere designation indicates geographic provenance valued by collectors maintaining pure locale lines. Experienced Malawi keepers only.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); robust filtration essential; weekly 25–30% water changes. Tank: 250 L minimum; one male; rock structures with narrow crevices suitable for this slender species to probe. Feeding: Algae-based — spirulina flake and pellets; algae wafers; strictly limit animal protein. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; female holds 21–28 days; immediately isolate brooding female from aggressive male. Compatibility: Extremely aggressive; experienced keepers only; do not mix with passive species.