Yellow Tail Acei (Pseudotropheus acei)

Pseudotropheus acei is a striking blue-bodied Mbuna from the open-water and dead wood zones of Lake Malawi, immediately recognisable by its vivid yellow caudal and dorsal fins that flash brilliantly against its electric blue body during displays. Unlike most mbuna that are exclusively rock-bound, it is found around driftwood snags and sandy shores as well, and tends to be one of the more peaceable representatives of the mbuna group. Males achieve breathtaking full display colouration.

House in a minimum 200 L tank with a mix of rockwork and driftwood pieces to replicate its natural habitat diversity. Maintain pH 7.6–8.6, GH 10–20, KH 8–15, temperature 24–28°C. Feed quality mbuna flake supplemented with spirulina, Cyclops, and occasional invertebrates. Generally compatible with other semi-aggressive mbuna — avoid pairing with very aggressive species. Males are territorial toward each other; keep one male with multiple females.