Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue mbuna (Labeotropheus fuelleborni) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The blue mbuna is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a stocky body with a distinctly overhanging, downward-pointing snout. With it the fish scrapes the algal growth (aufwuchs) from rocks in shallow, rocky water. Males are usually blue, while females and some colour forms can be orange-blotched. The species is strongly territorial and is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. It is popular with aquarists and harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue mbuna?
The Blue mbuna has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Overhanging snout for scraping algae from rocks; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Blue mbuna live?
The Blue mbuna lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa.
How big does the Blue mbuna get?
The Blue mbuna grows to a maximum of about 30 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?
Yes, the Blue mbuna is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Labeotropheus
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.