A vivid, dark blue body coloration marked with black vertical bars, plus yellowish markings on the dorsal fin, typify this Lake Malawi cichlid. There is such confusion over the identity of many Lake Malawi cichlids that some of those that are common in aquariums do not have recognized scientific names.
Qchlids (family Cichlidae) originate primarily in tropical America and Africa, with a few species in the Middle East and Asia. They are mainly freshwater fishes, though a few species require or tolerate brackish conditions. Size – adult Standard Length (SL) – ranges from 2 cm to 91 cm (3/4 in to 36 in) with a similar diversity in form, diet, and behaviour. Some species are very colourful and are thus attractive aquarium occupants. Many aquarists are, however, attracted by their interesting behaviour, character, and apparent intelligence; large specimens in particular can become genuine pets.
