Blue johanni - Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos
Scientific name: Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos
Common name: Blue johanni
Family: Cichlidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 7 - 8 cm (2.76 - 3.15 inch)
014
Recommended pH range for the species: 7.4 - 8.5
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 9 - 27°N (160.71 - 482.14ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 23 - 27 °C (73.4 - 80.6°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: Africa
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive/territorial
Usual place in the tank: Middle levels
Food and feeding
Vegetable matter should make up the major part of the diet for Blue johanni. Supply them with spirulina flake and vegetable based flakes for the staple diet but also give them treats of meaty food like blood worms and brine shrimp. Take care not to over feed these fish as they are prone to Malawi bloat.
Origin
Africa, Blue johanni’s are endemic to Lake Malawi.
Sexing
When mature, males will be slightly larger than the females. The females will also have a lighter belly than the males and shorter pelvic fins
Breeding
Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos are maternal mouth brooders. When the eggs have been laid and fertilised, the female will hold them in her mouth for 21 days incubation. During this time she will hide away and when the fry are released they can be fed on crushed flake and newly hatched brine shrimp.
Lifespan
The expected life span for Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos is 10 years.
Short description
Supply plenty of hiding places in the tank by using rock work. It is best to keep 1 male with 2-3 females but keep your eyes out for a single female being harassed by the male.
Pictures
Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.