Pseudotropheus zebra (Malawi's cichlid)

The pseudotrophic Zebra is a fish belonging to the Cichlidae family, originally from the fresh waters of Lake Malawi in East Africa. It is a gregarious fish, which means that it lives in a group, and it is generally more active at night than during the day. The pseudotrophic Zebra has a very distinctive color, with black and white strips which give it the appearance of a zebra (hence its name), but it can also vary in color according to its habitat and social behavior.

The pseudotrophic Zebra is a relatively large fish, up to a length of 12 centimeters for males and 8 centimeters for females. The male is generally larger and more colorful than the female, with larger fins and more vivid spots on its body. The female, on the other hand, is generally smaller and duller in color, although it can sometimes be as colorful as the male if it is well nourished and healthy.

The pseudotrophic Zebra is an omnivorous fish, which means that it feeds on plants and animals. In nature, it feeds mainly on invertebrates such as shrimp, insect larvae and snails, as well as small fish and molluscs. In captivity, it can also be nourished with flakes, pellets and frozen foods, taking care to give it a balanced diet to maintain its health and its bright color.

The pseudotrophic Zebra is a territorial and territorial fish, and the males can fight with each other to defend their territory or to mate with the females. Females can also fight to defend their territory or to protect their eggs and fry. In the aquarium, it is recommended to maintain several individuals together to prevent them from being bored and that they become aggressive, and to provide them with enough space so that they can move and hide if They wish.

Small and zebra female (like photo), blue and black zebra male. Yellow oxles on anal fins for the male.

A very slight modification of the pH or an increase in temperature stimulates reproduction. Oral incubator. The female lays about 60 eggs in a sand hole where the male fertilizes them. Immediately afterwards, she puts them in the mouth to spit them 20 days later. (small measures 7 or 8 mm).