malawi

Pseudotropheus Acei Itungi F1

🐟 Pseudotropheus acei “Itungi” — Species Description
📏 Size

Adult size: 12–15 cm (5–6 inches)

Slim, elongated body compared to most Mbuna

Males and females are similar in size and coloration

🌍 Occurrence (Natural Origin)

Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa

The “Itungi” population originates from the Itungi region, along the Tanzanian (northern) shoreline

Habitat differs from most Mbuna:

Found near submerged tree roots and driftwood

Also inhabits rocky areas with strong water movement

Often lives in loose groups rather than strict territories

“Itungi” is a true geographic locality, not a line-bred or hybrid form.

🎨 Appearance

Body color:

Deep blue to violet

Fins:

Bright yellow to yellow-orange dorsal and caudal fins

Coloration is similar in males and females

Juveniles show paler colors that intensify with age

🍽️ Diet (Preferred Food)

In the wild:

Primarily an aufwuchs grazer

Feeds on:

Algae growing on wood and rocks

Diatoms

Small invertebrates mixed with algae

In the aquarium:

Spirulina-based flakes or pellets

Vegetable-rich Mbuna foods

Occasional light protein:

Brine shrimp

Daphnia

⚠️ Avoid heavy animal protein (bloodworms, beef heart). Like most Mbuna, Acei are susceptible to Malawi bloat if overfed protein.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

One of the most peaceful Mbuna

Much calmer than Melanochromis or Metriaclima

Naturally shoaling—does best in groups of 6 or more

Aggression is low and spread across the group

Can coexist with:

Calm Mbuna (Labidochromis, Cynotilapia)

Larger, peaceful Haps in very large aquariums

⚠️ Still not ideal with very aggressive Mbuna like Melanochromis auratus.

🏞️ Preferred Aquarium Conditions

Tank size: Minimum 300 L (75 gallons); larger is better due to schooling behavior

pH: 7.8–8.6

Hardness: Moderate to hard

Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)

Substrate: Sand

Décor: Rockwork plus open swimming space; driftwood is beneficial

🧾 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Pseudotropheus acei
Locality Itungi
Group Mbuna
Adult Size 12–15 cm (5–6 in)
Origin Northern Lake Malawi (Tanzania)
Diet Algae/aufwuchs with light protein
Temperament Peaceful (for Mbuna)
Best Setup Group-kept Mbuna aquarium

✅ Compatibility Insight

Good matches:

Labidochromis species

Cynotilapia species

Metriaclima callainos (with space)

Avoid mixing with:

Melanochromis auratus

Melanochromis kaskazini

Highly aggressive zebra Mbuna in small tanks