Red Zebra Cichlid
Image: shankar s. (CC BY 2.0)
NameRed Zebra Cichlid
Scientific NameMetriaclima estherae
Common NamesRed Zebra Cichlid, Maylandia estherae, Estherae Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginAfrica, Lake Malawi
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)55
Max Size (Inches)5
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)76-82
pH Range7.5-8.5
Compatible SpeciesOther Lake Malawi Mbuna Cichlids (e.g., Yellow Lab Cichlid, Kenyi Cichlid), Peacock Cichlids (larger species), Haplochromis Cichlids (larger species)
Description
The Red Zebra Cichlid is a vibrant and popular mbuna cichlid from Lake Malawi, known for its striking orange coloration, often with a darker face or vertical barring. These fish are territorial and require a rocky aquascape with plenty of hiding spots to thrive. They are best kept in a species-specific tank or with other robust Lake Malawi cichlids.
