General information – The Maylandia estherae is one of the most

common Mbuna species in the world, with its red/orange colors this

magnificent cichlid is a great add to any Malawi fish tank. The females

are usually bright orange in color while males have protruding red colors.

In their natural habitat they can be found over rocky areas in the lake.

Most of the Maylandia estherae are collected near the Minos Reef, but

some are also found in Meluluca, Mozambique and in other locations.

In the wild males are normally blue but red males are also exist.

Common Name - Cherry Red Cichlid, Red Zebra

Scientific Name - Maylandia estherae, Pseudotropheus estherae

Family - Cichlidae

Origin - Lake Malawi, Africa

Size – Up to 13 cm (5 inches)

First discovered - Konings, 1995

Nutrition – Omnivore, will accept anything offered but it is essential to provide it with vegetable matter

on a regular basis. To keep their colors strong it is highly recommended to feed them varied diet,

Cyclops, Spirulina, brine shrimps along with high quality cichlids flakes and pellets.

Behavior - Aggressive

Maintenance and care – Due to its temperament the Maylandia estherae should be kept in ratio of one

male to 4-5 females; in this species it is highly essential to spread its natural aggressiveness. The tanks

must be decorated with rocks and other hiding places to allow the fish to find shelter. Also provide it with

plenty of room to swim. The red zebra or Maylandia estherae should be kept with other cichlids from the

lake with the same temperament and size. Hardy, bitter plants (Anubias, Microsorium and Echinodorus)

can be used if live plants are desired. This fish is a messy eater so weekly water changes and good

filtration system is required. 

Water Parameters – Temperature: 24C-28C (75F-82F), pH 7.5-8.5

Breeding – Mouthbrooder, The female will lay about 20 to 30 eggs and take these eggs into her mouth.

The eggs will be fertilized only after the male releases his milt into her mouth. The process occurs when the

female follows the male very close to his anal fin, Pseudotropheus estherae males (like many other

cichlids) have spots on their fins, and these spots are known as dummy eggs. The female believes these

are more eggs and goes to catch them this is the right moment for the male to release his milt and fertilize

the eggs. In 14 to 21 days the eggs are developed. After releasing, fry can be fed with crushed food, brine

shrimp or with powdered dry foods.