Melanochromis melanopterus
NameMelanochromis melanopterus
Scientific NameMelanochromis melanopterus
Common NamesMelanopterus Cichlid, Mbuna Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginAfrica, Lake Malawi
Temperamentaggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)5
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)76-82
pH Range7.8-8.6
Compatible SpeciesLabidochromis caeruleus (Yellow Lab), Iodotropheus sprengerae (Rusty Cichlid), Pseudotropheus demasoni, Other robust Lake Malawi Mbuna cichlids
Description
Melanochromis melanopterus is a territorial Mbuna cichlid from the rocky habitats of Lake Malawi. Males typically exhibit a striking blue body with yellow fins, while females are often less colorful. This species requires a specialized aquarium setup to manage its aggressive nature.
