Fin's Fish Guide
The Variable mbuna (Maylandia heteropicta) is a fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Variable mbuna is an mbuna cichlid (Cichlidae) from Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an elongate body; males colour up bright blue, yellow or black-banded, females stay duller. As a bottom-dweller of the rocky shore it rasps the algal mat ('aufwuchs') from rocks with a sturdy mouth and picks small invertebrates from it. It is a mouthbrooder: the female protects eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Variable mbuna?
The Variable mbuna is mainly blue.
Where does the Variable mbuna live?
The Variable mbuna is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Variable mbuna get?
The Variable mbuna grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Variable mbuna dangerous to humans?
No, the Variable 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.
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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 Variable mbuna?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Variable mbuna is one of 12,519 species in the app.