malawi

Metriaclima Callainos „Zebra Cobaltowa”

🐟 Metriaclima callainos "Cobalt Blue Zebra" — Species Description
📏 Size

Adult size: 10–13 cm (4–5 inches)

Robust, deep-bodied “zebra-type” Mbuna

Males are usually slightly larger and bulkier than females

🌍 Occurrence (Natural Origin)

Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa

Naturally found along the northwestern and central rocky shorelines

Inhabits:

Shallow rocky reefs

Areas with strong wave action

Closely associated with rock piles, caves, and crevices

Metriaclima callainos is a true wild species, not a hybrid or selectively bred aquarium strain.

🎨 Appearance

Body color:

Uniform cobalt blue to sky blue

Coloration is present in:

Males and females (females may be slightly paler)

Typically:

No vertical barring or only very faint barring

Dominant males may develop:

Slightly darker dorsal fin edging

🍽️ Diet (Preferred Food)

In the wild:

Primarily an aufwuchs grazer

Feeds on:

Algae

Diatoms

Microscopic invertebrates on rock surfaces

In the aquarium:

Spirulina-based flakes or pellets

Vegetable-rich Mbuna diets

Occasional light protein:

Brine shrimp

Daphnia

⚠️ Avoid high-protein animal foods (bloodworms, beef heart). Like other Metriaclima, this species is prone to Malawi bloat if fed incorrectly.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

Moderately aggressive Mbuna

Less aggressive than Melanochromis

Comparable to other Metriaclima zebra-type species

Males strongly defend rocky territories

Best kept:

In Mbuna-only aquariums

With similarly tempered Mbuna (Cynotilapia, Labeotropheus, other Metriaclima)

Recommended ratio: 1 male to 3–4 females

🏞️ Preferred Aquarium Conditions

Tank size: Minimum 250–300 L (65–75 gallons)

pH: 7.8–8.6

Hardness: Moderate to hard

Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)

Substrate: Sand

Décor: Heavy rockwork with caves and broken sight lines

🧾 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Metriaclima callainos
Common Name Cobalt Blue Zebra
Group Mbuna
Adult Size 10–13 cm (4–5 in)
Origin Lake Malawi
Diet Algae/aufwuchs with light protein
Temperament Moderate aggression
Best Setup Mbuna-only rocky aquarium