Fishician®Diet
Herbivore – algae-based pellets, spirulina flake, blanched vegetables; avoid high-protein (bloat)
Aquarium species profile
Cobalt Blue Zebra
Metriaclima callainos · Africa (Lake Malawi — various rocky locations)
Minimum tank55 gal
Adult size5"
Care levelModerate
TemperamentAggressive
Temperature76–82°F
pH range7.8–8.5
Compatible tank mates
Robust mbuna of similar size and aggression
Tank mates to avoid
Peaceful fish, small fish, multiple males in small tanks
Care notes
Solid powder-blue body — one of the more intensely blue mbuna. Males and females look similar, making sexing difficult. Territorial and aggressive toward males of same species. Classic mbuna. Part of the 'zebra' complex. Needs open rocky areas with caves. Avoid keeping with similar solid-blue species.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.