Maylandia estherae OB

Maylandia estherae OB is the orange-blotched colour morph of the Red Zebra cichlid, one of the most instantly recognisable and beloved mbuna in the aquarium trade. The OB gene produces irregular dark blotches over a vivid orange-red base colouration — each fish is uniquely patterned, making every individual one of a kind. Both sexes can express OB colouration, unlike most mbuna where it is typically female-limited.

The Red Zebra originates from the Metangula region of Mozambique in eastern Lake Malawi, where it inhabits exposed rocky shorelines at shallow depths. The OB morph arises from a naturally occurring genetic mutation that has been selectively propagated in captivity and is now widespread in the hobby.

In the aquarium, M. estherae OB is a hardy, colourful, and active species well suited to beginners working with mbuna for the first time. The striking OB pattern ensures this fish is always a focal point in any Malawi community. It is moderately aggressive and performs best in a mixed mbuna community with appropriate social structure.