malawi

Metriaclima Fainzilberi Maison Reef F1

🐟 Metriaclima fainzilberi “Maison Reef” — Species Description
📏 Size

Adult size: 10–12 cm (4–5 inches)

Robust, deep-bodied “zebra-type” Mbuna

Males are slightly bulkier and more intensely colored than females

🌍 Occurrence (Natural Origin)

Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa

Naturally occurs at Maison Reef

Maison Reef is a rocky reef system in the southern region of Lake Malawi

Habitat consists of:

Rocky outcrops

Caves and crevices

Shallow to mid-depth reef zones

“Maison Reef” is a true geographic locality, meaning this fish represents a wild-type population, not a hybrid or selectively bred strain.

🎨 Appearance

Adult males:

Bright to deep blue body

Clear dark vertical barring

Dorsal fin often shows yellow to orange edging (varies by dominance and mood)

Females & juveniles:

Grey-brown to beige coloration

Faint or broken barring

Classic Metriaclima zebra profile: tall body and blunt head

🍽️ Diet (Preferred Food)

In the wild:

Primarily an aufwuchs feeder

Grazes on:

Algae

Diatoms

Small invertebrates living 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 (bloodworms, beef heart). Like other Metriaclima, this species is susceptible to Malawi bloat if fed improperly.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

Moderately aggressive Mbuna

Comparable to other Metriaclima fainzilberi populations

Less aggressive than Melanochromis, more assertive than most Labidochromis

Males strongly defend rock territories

Best kept:

In Mbuna-only aquariums

With similarly tempered Mbuna (Cynotilapia, Labeotropheus, robust 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: Dense rockwork with many caves and broken sight lines

🧾 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Metriaclima fainzilberi
Locality Maison Reef
Group Mbuna
Adult Size 10–12 cm (4–5 in)
Origin Lake Malawi (Maison Reef)
Diet Algae/aufwuchs with light protein
Temperament Moderate aggression
Best Setup Mbuna-only rocky aquarium