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Malawi Golden Cichlid

Melanochromis auratus

The Malawi Golden cichlid was one of the first to be exported, and is still one of the most popular. The colouration difference between male and female is drastic, with the females being a golden colour with black markings, and the male is a blue/black colour with yellow markings. The auratus can also change sex; if only females are present the most dominant will change into a female. It is found amongst rocky areas of Lake Malawi in Africa.

The Golden cichlid requires a tank of at least 200 litres or more with plenty of rocks for territories and a gravel substrate. The Golden is an aggressive fish, fiercely territorial and should be housed with similarly aggressive tank mates from Malawi; it is not suitable for a community setup.

The Golden will accept flake foods but vegetarian supplements like algae and Nori should be offered to ensure a healthy diet. Meaty foods will cause bloating in the fish

Malawi Golden Cichlids can be bred in the home aquarium. They are mouth brooders with the female carrying the fry for around 3 - 4 weeks. They are great parents, and will successfully raise fry in a community aquarium

Approximate Purchase Size: Medium 4cm - 6cm

Due to variations within each species, your aquatic life may not look identical to the image provided.

Malawi Golden Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus)
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Fish Statistics

Minimum Tank Size:
200 litres
Diet:
Omnivore
Origin:
Lake Malawi
Temp (C):
22-27 C
Max Size:
12 cm
Family:
Cichlidae
Temperament:
Aggressive
pH:
7.5 - 8.5
Care Level:
Easy
Compatibility:
See Tank Mates Chart below

Buy Malawi Golden Cichlid