Yellow lab cichlid

Labidochromis caeruleus

A yellow body with dark fin margins from Lake Malawi.

Yellow alone does not identify it; check the dorsal band as well as the scientific name.

Adult length: Up to 10 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 24–28 °C
Lifespan: 5–10 years
pH: 7.7–8.6
Hardness: 10–25 dGH

Natural habitat: Inhabits Lake Malawi, with known native records concentrated along its northwestern shore.

Relative peacefulness does not remove breeding aggression or hybridisation concerns.

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Appearance and identification

This is the yellow form of Labidochromis caeruleus; white and other locality forms are the same species. Adult sexes can look similar, so black fin pigment alone is not reliable for sexing.

Social behaviour and territory

Group structure, sex ratio and space belong together.

Compatibility limits

Hard alkaline water, adult size and territorial pressure need review before choosing companions.

Space requirements

Allow a 90 × 45 cm base with secure rock refuges and open areas.

Aquarium environment

Its habitat of rock and sand includes Vallisneria areas.

Diet and feeding

Offer appropriately sized complete foods without overfeeding; it is not an automatic algae-control fish.

Sources