African Cichlid – Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlid 5cm

Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlid: A Vibrant African Cichlid

The Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlid (Protomelas spilonotus ‘Mara Rocks’) is a stunning freshwater fish native to Lake Malawi. Known for its vibrant yellow “sulphur crest” and shimmering blue body, this cichlid adds a dramatic splash of colour to any aquarium. With its peaceful temperament compared to other African cichlids, it’s an excellent choice for intermediate and experienced aquarists.

Size and Lifespan

Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlids can grow to an impressive size of 20–25 cm, with males typically being larger and more vividly coloured than females. When properly cared for, they can live for 8–10 years, providing long-term beauty and activity in a well-maintained tank.

Tank Size and Requirements

A minimum tank size of 300 liters is required to house these active and territorial fish comfortably. Maintain water temperatures of 24°C–28°C and a pH between 7.8 and 8.6 to replicate their natural habitat. Provide plenty of open swimming areas, sandy substrates, and rocky structures with caves for shelter and territories. Strong filtration is crucial to maintain water quality and accommodate their bioload.

Tank Mates

These cichlids are semi-aggressive but relatively peaceful compared to other Malawi cichlids. Ideal tank mates include Haps, Peacocks, and other non-aggressive or mildly aggressive cichlids of similar size. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive species or smaller fish that may be bullied. Feeding AquaMunch Super Colour products ensures all cichlids in the tank achieve vibrant colouration evenly, reducing stress and aggression while showcasing their full potential.

Feeding Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlids

Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlids are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet. Provide high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes as their staple food. Supplement with live or frozen protein sources like brine shrimp, krill, or daphnia, as well as vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or zucchini. Including AquaMunch Super Colour products in their diet not only enhances their brilliant colours but also supports overall health and vitality.

Breeding Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlids

Breeding these cichlids is achievable in a spacious and well-maintained aquarium. Males court females with vivid displays and establish territories for spawning. Females are mouthbrooders, carrying fertilized eggs in their mouths for 21–28 days until the fry are free-swimming. Providing flat rocks or sandy areas encourages natural spawning behaviour. Fry can be fed finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp to ensure healthy growth.

Sexing Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlids

Males are larger with more vivid blue and yellow colouration, particularly during breeding seasons. Females are smaller and display more muted silver or grey tones. Observing size, behaviour, and colouration helps distinguish males from females in a group.

FAQs

How big do Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlids get?
They grow to 20–25 cm, with males being larger than females.

Are they aggressive?
They are semi-aggressive but relatively peaceful for African cichlids. Proper tank mates and space reduce conflicts.

What tank mates are suitable?
Haps, Peacocks, and other non-aggressive or mildly aggressive cichlids of similar size make excellent companions.

What do they eat?
They thrive on cichlid pellets, live or frozen protein, and vegetables like zucchini or spinach. AquaMunch Super Colour products enhance their colours.

How do you breed Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlids?
Provide sandy areas or flat rocks for spawning. Females mouthbrood eggs for 21–28 days before releasing fry.

How can you tell males and females apart?
Males are larger with bright blue and yellow colouring, while females are smaller with muted tones.

Species Overview

• Species: Protomelas spilonotus ‘Mara Rocks’
• Common Name: Mara Rocks Sulphur Crest Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 25 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 300 liters