Fin's Fish Guide
The Mbuna cichlid (Pseudotropheus fainzilberi) is a fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
Fainzilber's mbuna is a rock cichlid (mbuna, Cichlidae) endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species lives in the rocky shore zone; courting males colour bright blue, while females and juveniles are more inconspicuous. It grazes the algal mats (aufwuchs) on the rocks and also picks small invertebrates from them. As a haplochromine cichlid it is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female broods the eggs in her mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mbuna cichlid?
The Mbuna cichlid has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Bright blue courting male; aufwuchs-grazing rock mbuna and maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Mbuna cichlid live?
The Mbuna cichlid is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; rocky shore zone.
How big does the Mbuna cichlid get?
The Mbuna cichlid grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Mbuna cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Mbuna cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mbuna cichlid edible?
The Mbuna cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudotropheus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Mbuna cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mbuna cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.