Saulosi Cichlid (Chindongo)

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to Lake Malawi (Taiwan Reef). Populates the rocky slopes battered by waves in warm and crystal clear waters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Saulosi Cichlid (Chindongo saulosi, formerly Pseudotropheus). Classic dwarf Mbuna of about 8-9 cm (3.5 inches). Rounded profile and stocky snout.

Social Behavior: Moderately aggressive by Mbuna standards. The dominant male claims a cave and defends it energetically. Requires the Harem technique (1 male and 4-5 females) to dilute the persecutions.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: One of the most striking dimorphisms in the world: adult males are electric blue with heavy vertical black bands. Females (and juveniles) are a dazzling canary yellow/orange. In a tank they look like two different species.

Aquarium Setup: 100 cm (40 inches) tank (150-200 liters / 40-50 gallons). Light sandy bottom and massive barrier of stones piled along the back wall up to the water's surface. Do not insert wood (lowers the pH).

Diet and Feeding: Strict herbivore. Feeds by incessantly grazing the algal layer (Aufwuchs). Feed with excellently made vegetable pellets, spirulina flakes and blanched vegetables.

Water Quality: As endemic to Lake Malawi, the water must have a high and stable pH (7.8-8.6). Important requirement is a powerful oxygenator or strong surface movement to avoid oxygen deficiencies.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Ideal for a species-specific tank: the incredible yellow/blue contrast is enough to animate the aquarium. Can be paired with other non-aggressive and differently colored Mbuna (e.g. Iodotropheus).

Aquarium Reproduction: Maternal mouthbrooder. Very easy. The male guides the female on the sandy bottom of his nest and by vibrating fertilizes the newly released eggs, which the female swallows. Isolation of the female recommended to save the young.

Risks and Diseases: Hyper sensitive to intestinal blockages (Malawi Bloat) if it ingests protein frozen food (brine shrimp, bloodworms) intended for tankmates. Highly endangered in nature (IUCN status critically endangered).