Edit Melanochromis auratus
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Name
Scientific name
Melanochromis auratus
Described by
Not recorded
Family
Cichlidae
Common names
Golden Mbuna
Photograph credits
All 2 credited
Summary
The golden mbuna, Melanochromis auratus, is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, common down the western coast and along the southern end of t…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
110mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Minimum length 120 cm, Minimum depth 45 cm, Minimum height 38 cm
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.6–8.8
Hardness
10–25dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Territorial
Social needs
One male with several females
Community suitability
Not recorded
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Malawi, Lake Malawi
Writing
Etymology
Not written yet
Distribution
Endemic to Lake Malawi. It is a common species, being found down the entire western coast of the lake from Jalo Reef, down to Crocodile Rocks, all along the so…
Habitat
It inhabits rocky areas of shorelines, reefs and islands.
Aquarium size
120 ∗ 45 ∗ 38 cm - ~205 litres absolute minimum due to its highly aggressive nature (see below).
Maintenance
Much of the aquarium should contain piles of rocks arranged to form caves with small areas of open water between. A sandy substrate is best and the water shoul…
Water conditions
Temperature: 24 – 28 °C pH: 7.6-8.8 Hardness: 10-25°H
Diet
It will accept most foods offered but vegetable matter in the form of spirulina flakes, blanched spinach etc. should form a large proportion of the diet. This …
Behaviour and compatibility
One of the most aggressive and territorial mbuna. It should not be kept with peace loving species, such as Peacocks or Utaka, but it can be combined with other…
Sexual dimorphism
Mature males are a completely different colour to the golden females and juvenile/sub-dominant males, taking on a dark colouration. Males are also larger than …
Reproduction
Possible. Maternal mouthbrooder. It should be spawned in a species tank in a harem of one male and at least 3 females. A 48" aquarium is a good size (although …
Notes
Despite its ready availability, M. auratus is not recommended for the beginner due to its intolerant nature. Do not keep it with other Melanochromis species as…
References
References
No references