Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue mbuna (Maylandia zebra) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The zebra mbuna (Maylandia zebra) is a colourful cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa and belongs to the group of rock-dwelling 'mbuna'. The species has a streamlined body, usually bright blue with dark vertical bands, and reaches about 11 cm; orange and blotched colour forms also exist. It lives in the rocky zone of the lake and grazes the algal mat (aufwuchs) from the stones with its mouth held perpendicular to the substrate. Like other Lake Malawi cichlids the species is a maternal mouthbrooder. Owing to its vivid colours the zebra mbuna is one of the most popular cichlids in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue mbuna?
The Blue mbuna has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Bright blue with dark bands; aufwuchs-grazing mouthbrooder and popular aquarium fish.
Where does the Blue mbuna live?
The Blue mbuna lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa.
How big does the Blue mbuna get?
The Blue mbuna grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Blue mbuna dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue mbuna is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blue mbuna edible?
The Blue mbuna is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Maylandia
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue mbuna?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue mbuna is one of 12,519 species in the app.