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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.

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
Medium 4cm - 6cm
- 1 to 3 - £5.50
- 4 to 7 - £5.25
- 8 or more items - £5.00
Tank Mates
We recommend pairing your Malawi Golden Cichlid with these other fish: