Fin's Fish Guide
The Cobalt blue zebra (Maylandia callainos) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The cobalt blue zebra is an mbuna cichlid endemic to Nkhata Bay in Lake Malawi in East Africa and introduced to several islands in the lake. The species grows to about 8 cm and stands out for its bright cobalt-blue colour. It lives in the rocky zone and grazes growth and algae (aufwuchs) from the stones with its mouth. Like most mbuna it is a maternal mouthbrooder, with the female incubating the eggs and larvae in her mouth. The fish is popular in the aquarium trade and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cobalt blue zebra?
The Cobalt blue zebra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Bright blue rock-dwelling mbuna; aufwuchs grazer; maternal mouthbrooder
Where does the Cobalt blue zebra live?
The Cobalt blue zebra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Malawi
How big does the Cobalt blue zebra get?
The Cobalt blue zebra grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Cobalt blue zebra dangerous to humans?
No, the Cobalt blue zebra 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 Cobalt blue zebra edible?
The Cobalt blue zebra is not usually 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 Cobalt blue zebra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cobalt blue zebra is one of 12,519 species in the app.