African Cichlid – Crabro Bumblebee – 4cm

Crabro Bumblebee Cichlid: A Bold and Dynamic Mbuna

The Crabro Bumblebee Cichlid (Pseudotropheus crabro), named for its striking black and yellow stripes, is a vibrant Mbuna species from Lake Malawi. Known for its bold appearance and active nature, this cichlid is a popular choice for experienced aquarists. Its fascinating behaviour and unique look make it a standout in African cichlid tanks.

Size and Lifespan

Crabro Bumblebee Cichlids grow to 12–15 cm, with males typically being larger and more vividly coloured than females. With proper care, they can live for 6–8 years, making them a long-term and dynamic addition to your aquarium.

Tank Size and Requirements

A tank of at least 250 liters is recommended for these active and territorial fish. They thrive in water temperatures of 24°C–28°C and a pH range of 7.8–8.6. Create a habitat with rocky caves and sandy substrates to mimic their Lake Malawi environment. The right tank setup reduces stress and helps manage their territorial nature.

Tank Mates

Crabro Bumblebee Cichlids are aggressive, particularly during breeding or when establishing dominance. They are best kept with other robust Mbuna species like Red Zebras, Yellow Labs, or Auratus Cichlids. Avoid housing them with timid or slow-moving fish. Keeping them in a group with a male-to-female ratio of 1:4 helps reduce aggression.

Feeding Crabro Bumblebee Cichlids

These omnivorous cichlids thrive on a mixed diet. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes formulated for Mbuna. Supplement with occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or krill. To prevent digestive issues, avoid excessive protein and include vegetable-based foods like spirulina flakes or blanched spinach. A balanced diet keeps them healthy and enhances their striking colours.

Breeding Crabro Bumblebee Cichlids

Breeding is straightforward in a well-maintained tank. Males establish territories and court females with vibrant displays. Females are maternal mouthbrooders, carrying fertilized eggs for 18–25 days before releasing fry. Provide multiple hiding spots and spawning sites, such as flat rocks or caves, to encourage natural breeding behaviour. Fry can be raised on finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp.

FAQs

How big do Crabro Bumblebee Cichlids get?
They grow to 12–15 cm, with males being larger and more colourful.

Are they aggressive?
Yes, they are highly aggressive and best kept with other robust Mbuna species.

What tank mates are suitable?
Yellow Labs, Red Zebras, and Auratus Cichlids are excellent companions.

What do they eat?
They thrive on cichlid pellets, occasional live or frozen foods, and vegetable-based options like spirulina flakes.

How do you breed them?
They are maternal mouthbrooders. Males court females, and fry are released after 18–25 days of incubation.

Species Overview

• Species: Pseudotropheus crabro
• Common Name: Crabro Bumblebee Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 15 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 250 liters