Pseudotropheus flavus

Pseudotropheus flavus is a rare and striking mbuna from Lake Malawi notable for the yellow body colouration of both males and females — a highly unusual trait in Pseudotropheus, where blue is overwhelmingly the dominant colour. Males display vivid yellow-to-gold body colouration with darker marking patterns, particularly the dark barring or blotching that becomes pronounced in dominant males. This natural yellow colouration distinguishes P. flavus from yellow tank-bred morphs of other species.

The species is rarely collected and less frequently available in the hobby, making it a highly sought-after find for dedicated Malawi cichlid collectors. Behaviour is typical of the Pseudotropheus group: territorial, aggressive, and a maternal mouthbrooder with females holding for 21–28 days. Management in harem groups in a 200+ L tank with adequate rockwork is standard. Hard, alkaline water and an algae-based diet are essential. Care should be taken not to confuse this species with yellow Labidochromis in mixed tanks.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); standard hard alkaline Lake Malawi water chemistry. Tank: 200 L minimum; rockwork with caves; keep one dominant male; open sandy floor areas complement the setup. Feeding: Algae-based — spirulina flake and pellets; carotenoid-rich foods help maintain yellow colouration intensity. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; female holds 21–28 days; isolate brooding female to a quiet holding tank. Compatibility: Avoid housing with Labidochromis caeruleus to prevent confusion; suitable with other moderate mbuna of different colouration.