Cichlid
Care basics
The cobalt blue zebra is a solid, powder blue mbuna and one of the most familiar fish in African cichlid tanks. It was long sold as Pseudotropheus or Metriaclima callainos, and it is easy to confuse with blue forms of the red zebra.
Keep several females per male so no one fish takes all the attention, and mix it with other robust mbuna to spread out aggression. Rock piles with plenty of caves and a vegetable based diet keep them healthy.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Maylandia callainos |
|---|---|
| Group | Lake Malawi mbuna |
| Native to | Northern Lake Malawi, rocky shores |
| Adult size | Up to about 5.5 inches, not counting the tail |
| Tank size | A tank at least 4 feet long and 18 inches front to back, such as a 75 gallon |
| Temperature | 75 to 82 F |
| pH | 7.6 to 8.8, hard water |
| Temperament | Aggressive and territorial, especially toward its own kind. Not a tank mate for peacocks or other gentle haps. |
Figures follow published species profiles such as Seriously Fish, and tank sizes are general guidance. Individual fish and local water vary, so test your water and ask your fish store about the specific fish you buy.
