malawi

Metriaclima Estherae Red - Red

🐟 Metriaclima estherae “Red-Red” — Species Description
📏 Size

Adult size: 10–13 cm (4–5 inches)

Males and females are similar in size

Unlike many Mbuna, both sexes are red/orange in the “Red-Red” form

🌍 Occurrence (Natural Origin)

Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa

Naturally found around Minos Reef and nearby areas

Inhabits shallow rocky reef zones

Strongly associated with rocky substrates and crevices

The “Red-Red” form is a naturally occurring color morph of Metriaclima estherae, not a hybrid or artificially dyed fish.

🎨 Appearance

Body color:

Bright orange to deep red

Color is present in:

Males and females (hence “Red-Red”)

May show:

Slight vertical barring under stress

Dark fin edges in dominant males

Juveniles may be paler and intensify with age

🍽️ Diet (Preferred Food)

In the wild:

Primarily an aufwuchs feeder

Feeds on:

Algae

Diatoms

Small 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 foods such as bloodworms or beef heart—Metriaclima estherae is very prone to Malawi bloat.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

Moderately to highly aggressive

Less extreme than Melanochromis auratus, but still territorial

Males defend rock territories vigorously

Best kept:

In Mbuna-only tanks

With other robust Mbuna species

Recommended ratio: 1 male to 3–4 females

⚠️ Not suitable for Peacock (Aulonocara) or Hap (Utaka) community tanks.

🏞️ 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 many caves and broken sight lines

🧾 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Metriaclima estherae
Trade Name Red-Red Zebra
Group Mbuna
Adult Size 10–13 cm (4–5 in)
Origin Lake Malawi (Minos Reef area)
Diet Algae/aufwuchs with light protein
Temperament Moderate–high aggression
Best Setup Mbuna-only rocky aquarium