Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid

Scientific Name: Maylandia callainos
Also Known As: Metriaclima callainos

The Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid is a striking Lake Malawi Mbuna known for its solid powder-blue to cobalt-blue coloration. Unlike many Zebra-type Mbuna, this species generally lacks strong vertical barring, giving mature specimens a clean, almost solid-blue appearance. Both sexes can display blue coloration, although males are generally brighter and females may appear more blue-gray.

Cobalt Blue Zebras are active, territorial African cichlids and should be maintained in a properly planned Mbuna aquarium. They can be considerably more aggressive than Peacock Cichlids, particularly when defending territories, so substantial rockwork and carefully selected tankmates are important.

Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Aggressive / Territorial
Purchase Size: Approximately 1–2 inches
Adult Size: Approximately 5 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons recommended
Temperature: 75–82°F
pH: 7.6–8.8
Hardness: 8–25 dGH
Diet: Primarily herbivorous / aufwuchs grazer
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
Recommended Group: If keeping a breeding group, one male with several females helps distribute male aggression.

Recommended Setup: Provide a sand substrate with extensive rockwork arranged to create caves, territories, and visual barriers. Strong filtration, good oxygenation, and stable hard, alkaline water are important. Cobalt Blue Zebras are best paired with appropriately selected Mbuna of similar temperament rather than peaceful community fish or generally milder Peacock Cichlids.

Feed a high-quality Mbuna diet rich in vegetable matter, including spirulina-based flakes or pellets and algae-based foods. Avoid routinely feeding rich, high-protein foods because their natural feeding strategy centers heavily on grazing algae and associated aufwuchs.

Please Note: Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlids may vary in size, sex, and shade of blue. Juveniles may not display their full adult coloration, and males are generally more intensely colored. Unless specifically stated otherwise, sex and exact coloration are not guaranteed.

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