General information – Melanochromis auratus was one of the first

cichlids to be imported to the united state and to many other countries.

Melanochromis auratus has a general elongated appearance; its body

coloration is bright yellow with astonishing black horizontal stripes.

Males have a dark brown belly and in his general appearance females

colors are more intense than males. Juveniles have similar colors

as the females.

Common Name - Auratus, Malawi Golden cichlid 

Scientific Name - Melanochromis auratus

Photo by: Killer

Origin - Lake Malawi, Africa 

Size – Up to 12cm (5 in) 

First discovered – Boulenger, 1897 

Nutrition - Like the entire mbuna group the Auratus is mainly a vegetarian. In captivity this beautiful

tropical fish will accept almost anything offered. Although the auratus will graze the algae from the rocks

of the tank, Spirulina containing foods should be provided. Frozen foods can be part of its diet but not

more then 1-2 times a week. High quality flakes and pellets will complete the auratus diet.    

Behavior – Aggressive 

Maintenance and care - To be kept successfully, at least a 55 gallon aquarium is required.

The aquarium should be decorated with rocks and woods. Hardy, bitter plants (Anubias, Microsorium

and Echinodorus) can be used if live plants are desired. The males are extremely aggressive towards

other males so it is highly recommended to keep one male with 3-4 females. Other species of

Melanochromis should not be kept in the same tank due to the risk of hybridization.   

Water Parameters – Temperature: 72F-81F (22C-27C), pH 7.5-9, dH: 10-25 

Breeding - Auratus are female mouth brooders, which means that the mother will pick up the eggs

and guard them in her mouth. Females are excellent holders. The Preferred spawning site is on a flat

stone, the female will take the unfertilized eggs in her mouth, and eggs will be fertilized after the male

releases his milt into her mouth. This process occurs when the female follows the male very close to

his anal fin, the male has special spots on its fin, those spots 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. After 21days the female releases her fry to the open water, the fry are big enough

and without the yolk.