African Cichlid – Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid 5cm

Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid (Metriaclima callainos)

The Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid, from the clear waters of Lake Malawi, impresses with its vivid cobalt blue color and relatively peaceful demeanor. This cichlid is a favorite among enthusiasts for adding a splash of color and activity to African cichlid aquariums.

Appearance

Sporting a bright cobalt blue body, the Cobalt Blue Zebra stands out for its uniform color, lacking the typical vertical bars of other Mbuna species. Males often showcase richer hues and grow up to about 12-15 cm, making them a prominent feature in any aquarium setup.

Aquarium Care

These cichlids thrive in at least 200 liters of water, allowing sufficient room for swimming and territorial behavior. The setup should include an abundance of rocks and caves to simulate their natural rocky habitat and offer necessary hiding places. Keep water conditions with a pH of 7.8 to 8.5 and temperatures between 24°C and 28°C to promote a healthy environment.

Tank Mates

Cobalt Blue Zebras are generally peaceful but can exhibit territoriality, especially during breeding times. They mesh well with other similarly sized Malawi cichlids that share their robust nature. Managing male-to-female ratios effectively can help minimize aggression within the tank.

Feeding & Nutrition

As omnivores with a strong preference for vegetable matter, Cobalt Blue Zebras benefit from a diet that includes AquaMunch Super Greens flakes, which contain 38% spirulina, supporting their health and enhancing their vibrant blue color. Complement this with high-quality cichlid pellets and occasional treats of live or frozen foods.

Lifespan

With optimal care, these cichlids can live up to 10 years, making them a lasting addition to your aquatic community.

FAQs

What size tank is recommended for Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlids?
A 200-liter tank is ideal, providing ample space for their active swimming and territorial behaviors.

Can Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlids coexist with other fish?
Yes, they are best housed with other Malawi cichlids that are similar in size and temperament to foster a peaceful tank environment.

How often should Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlids be fed?
Feeding them twice daily in small amounts ensures they are healthy and reduces waste in the tank.

What are the ideal water conditions for Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlids?
They prefer slightly alkaline water with stable temperatures that mirror their natural habitat in Lake Malawi.

Species Overview

• Species: Metriaclima callainos
• Common Name: Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 7.8 – 8.5
• Temperature: 24°C – 28°C
• Max Size: Approximately 12-15 cm
• Sex: Sold un-sexed