Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Aggressive
Live Plant Safe: No
General Description: The OB Zebra is a color variant of the standard Red Zebra cichlid (Metriaclima estherae). OB stands for “orange blotch”, as individuals have a blotch pattern against their otherwise yellow to orange colored bodies. There is still confusion today surrounding the true genus of the zebra cichlid. It has been previously included in Maylandia and Pseudotropheus. Zebra cichlids are endemic to rocky coastlines and reefs of Lake Malawi. One of the more aggressive African cichlids, Zebra cichlids may be referred to as a ‘mbuna’, which is a general term to characterize various Malawian cichlid species that share a similar body shape and belligerent temperament. Zebra cichlids are relatively easy to care for but their territorial nature requires them to be kept in an overcrowded tank with other like-temperamented heterospecific fish to spread out or reduce aggression, especially if you are trying to keep multiple Zebra cichlids together. An adult Zebra cichlid can reach a size of approximately 4″.
Diet Requirements: Zebra cichlids are omnivorous, but a greater proportion of their diet should be vegetable based. Various high quality vegetable based flake foods that contain spirulina algae and sinking pellet foods are ideal. Frozen foods such as spirulina or standard brine shrimp and bloodworms are also excellent choices. High percentage protein foods should be fed in moderation. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 55 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single or small group of Zebra cichlids. Biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters up to standard for African cichlid aquariums (Nitrates < 30 ppm). The aquarium should be aquascaped generously with stacked rocks to create many hiding spaces and caves, but some open swimming space should also be provided. A sandy or fine substrate is preferred and the aquarium needs to be well oxygenated. African cichlid specific substrates, or even marine Aragonite substrate, are great choices because they will buffer the pH and alkalinity to levels characteristic of Lake Malawi. Zebra cichlids will do well with other pugnacious Malawian cichlids; use caution or observe the addition of more “peaceful” species, such as peacocks. Recommended water conditions, 74-80° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.5-8.5.
Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2” to 1-1/34”; Medium: 2” to 2-1/2”; Large: 2-3/4” to 3-1/2”
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
