Cynotilapia zebroides – Afra Edwardi

Common name: Afra Edwardi

 Scientific name: Cynotilapia Zebroides

 Average Adult Fish Size: 7.5cm / 3 Inches

 Place of Origin: Lake Malawi

 Typical Tank setup: Rocky Malawi tank with plenty of hiding spaces/caves.

 Recommended Minimum Aquarium Capacity: 200 Litres

 Compatibility: Combine with other Mbuna but avoid adding similar looking males.

 Temperature: 23-26 Deg C / 73-78 Deg F

 Water chemistry:  pH 7.6-8.6

 Feeding: Omnivore – Best thrives on specially made African Cichlid pellets or flakes. It is mostly vegetarian so foods with really high meat and protein content should be avoided.

 Sexing: Males are larger and much more colourful as adults, juvenile fish are difficult to sex.

Breeding: Cynotilapia Zebroides are maternal mouthbrooders like many of the African Cichlids. The male will entice a mate and as the female lays her eggs he will fertilize them. The process continues till all the eggs are fertilized and the female holds them in her mouth for 3-4 weeks during which time she does not eat.

Additional Information: This dwarf Mbuna is a rather attractive little fish. The male displays an amazing colouring of purple and yellow on the body with black vertical stripes. These colours become more intense when breeding and with dominance. They are best kept with other Mbuna but avoid housing with similar looking fish to help reduce aggression and avoid crossbreeding if keeping both sexes. Provide plenty of rock work in your aquarium for hiding and to provide a natural environment for your fish.

Author: @sinapresents