Size:

• Males can reach up to 5.9 inches (15 cm).
• Females are slightly smaller, usually around 4.5 inches (11 cm).

Coloration:

• Males: Exhibit a vivid yellow or sulfur-colored stripe that runs from the snout, along the head, and down the dorsal fin. The body is a shimmering metallic blue, often with subtle purple undertones.
• Females and Juveniles: Display a more subdued silvery-gray color, lacking the bright stripe and vivid hues.

Native Habitat:
Found in Lake Malawi, specifically around areas such as Eccles Reef and West Reef.

Environment:
Inhabits intermediate zones where rocky reef areas meet sandy lake bottoms. They are found at depths of 10–40 meters and use the sandy substrate for foraging.

Temperament:

• Generally peaceful, making them one of the more docile Peacock Cichlids.
• Males can become territorial during breeding but are less aggressive than other cichlid species.

Social Behavior:
Best kept in a harem structure, with one male and multiple females to reduce aggression and foster natural behaviors.

Tank Size:
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for a small group, with larger tanks (75+ gallons) preferred for multiple males or a mixed species setup.

Water Parameters:

• pH: 7.5–8.5 (alkaline conditions)
• Temperature: 72°F–79°F (22°C–26°C)
• Hardness: Moderate to hard water, as found in Lake Malawi.

Tank Setup:

• Substrate: Fine sand to allow for natural foraging behavior.
• Decor: Incorporate rocky formations and caves for hiding and breeding, with plenty of open swimming space.
• Use hardy plants sparingly, as cichlids may uproot them.

Wild Diet:
In the wild, they sift through the sandy substrate to find small invertebrates and microorganisms.

In Captivity:
Provide a high-quality diet that mimics their natural intake:

• Cichlid pellets or flakes.
• Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia.
• Occasional vegetable-based foods for added nutrients.

Type:
Maternal mouthbrooders.

Breeding Behavior:

• Males create a small territory and display their bright colors to attract females.
• After spawning, the female collects the eggs in her mouth, where they incubate for about 3–4 weeks.
• Once the fry are ready, they are released and can be fed finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp.

Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids, such as:

• Other Peacock Cichlids (Aulonocara species).
• Haplochromis species.

Avoid aggressive species or Mbuna cichlids, as they can outcompete the Maylandi for food and space.

Size:

• Males can reach up to 5.9 inches (15 cm).
• Females are slightly smaller, usually around 4.5 inches (11 cm).

Coloration:

• Males: Exhibit a vivid yellow or sulfur-colored stripe that runs from the snout, along the head, and down the dorsal fin. The body is a shimmering metallic blue, often with subtle purple undertones.
• Females and Juveniles: Display a more subdued silvery-gray color, lacking the bright stripe and vivid hues.

Native Habitat:
Found in Lake Malawi, specifically around areas such as Eccles Reef and West Reef.

Environment:
Inhabits intermediate zones where rocky reef areas meet sandy lake bottoms. They are found at depths of 10–40 meters and use the sandy substrate for foraging.

Temperament:

• Generally peaceful, making them one of the more docile Peacock Cichlids.
• Males can become territorial during breeding but are less aggressive than other cichlid species.

Social Behavior:
Best kept in a harem structure, with one male and multiple females to reduce aggression and foster natural behaviors.

Tank Size:
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for a small group, with larger tanks (75+ gallons) preferred for multiple males or a mixed species setup.

Water Parameters:

• pH: 7.5–8.5 (alkaline conditions)
• Temperature: 72°F–79°F (22°C–26°C)
• Hardness: Moderate to hard water, as found in Lake Malawi.

Tank Setup:

• Substrate: Fine sand to allow for natural foraging behavior.
• Decor: Incorporate rocky formations and caves for hiding and breeding, with plenty of open swimming space.
• Use hardy plants sparingly, as cichlids may uproot them.

Wild Diet:
In the wild, they sift through the sandy substrate to find small invertebrates and microorganisms.

In Captivity:
Provide a high-quality diet that mimics their natural intake:

• Cichlid pellets or flakes.
• Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia.
• Occasional vegetable-based foods for added nutrients.

Type:
Maternal mouthbrooders.

Breeding Behavior:

• Males create a small territory and display their bright colors to attract females.
• After spawning, the female collects the eggs in her mouth, where they incubate for about 3–4 weeks.
• Once the fry are ready, they are released and can be fed finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp.

Compatible with other peaceful Malawi cichlids, such as:

• Other Peacock Cichlids (Aulonocara species).
• Haplochromis species.

Avoid aggressive species or Mbuna cichlids, as they can outcompete the Maylandi for food and space.