Pseudotropheus williamsi 'Masinje'

Pseudotropheus williamsi 'Masinje' is the Masinje locale form of P. williamsi, a moderately sized mbuna from the rocky shoreline of Lake Malawi. Males display attractive blue to grey-blue colouration with faint to moderate dark barring. The Masinje locality, found on the western shoreline, is known for producing fish with good colour intensity and clear locale characteristics.

P. williamsi occupies a mid-level niche in the mbuna aggression spectrum — territorial and competitive but somewhat less extreme than Melanochromis or P. elongatus. A 1M:3–4F harem in a 200+ L tank with abundant rockwork is appropriate. This species is an algae grazer requiring a primarily spirulina-based diet. Females are maternal mouthbrooders holding eggs and fry for approximately 21–28 days. Suitable for experienced mbuna keepers looking to add locale-specific variety to their collections.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); maintain with weekly water changes and reliable filtration. Tank: 200 L minimum; stacked rockwork creating multiple territories; one dominant male per tank. Feeding: Algae-based diet — spirulina flake and pellets; occasional algae wafers; limit animal protein. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; female holds 21–28 days; isolate brooding female to reduce harassment. Compatibility: Moderate mbuna community; separate from other P. williamsi locales to maintain genetic purity.