Maylandia estherae

Blue males and orange females are common, but orange males and orange-blotched forms also occur.

Blue males and orange females are common, but orange males and orange-blotched forms also occur. Blue-male, orange-female color rules cannot sex every individual.

Adult length: Up to 13.5 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 24–28 °C
pH: 7.6–8.8
Hardness: 10–25 dGH

Natural habitat: Inhabits rocky lake habitats.

Prone to overeating and obesity. Breed different color forms separately.

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Social behaviour and territory

Usually keep one male with several females; consider several males only in a very large setup. Carefully chosen Mbuna of similar assertiveness may be suitable companions.

Diet and feeding

Make plant foods a substantial part of the diet, supplement with small amounts of animal food, and control pellet portions.

Sources