Fishician®Diet
Herbivore/Omnivore – algae-based cichlid pellets, spirulina, mysis shrimp
Aquarium species profile
Maingano
Melanochromis maingano · Africa (Lake Malawi — Maingano Island, Tanzania)
Minimum tank55 gal
Adult size4"
Care levelModerate
TemperamentAggressive
Temperature76–82°F
pH range7.8–8.5
Compatible tank mates
Robust mbuna (Pseudotropheus, Labidochromis, Cynotilapia)
Tank mates to avoid
Peaceful community fish, other Melanochromis species (will hybridize/fight), small fish
Care notes
Stunning electric blue horizontal stripes on black — more vivid than similar Melanochromis species. Both sexes similarly colored (unusual for cichlids). Highly aggressive for its size — one of the most territorial mbuna. Island endemic from Maingano Island. Keep 1 male to multiple females. Avoid mixing with similar-looking Melanochromis.
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.