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Purple mbuna - Melanochromis vermivorus

Purple mbuna - Melanochromis vermivorus

Scientific name: Melanochromis vermivorus

Common name: Purple mbuna

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 12 - 15 cm (4.72 - 5.91 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7.5 - 8.9

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 25°N (178.57 - 446.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 27 °C (71.6 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive/territorial

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Purple Mbuna Overview

The Purple Mbuna (Melanochromis vermivorus) is a vibrant and active cichlid species native to the rocky areas of Lake Malawi in Eastern Africa. Their striking dark blue body, accented with turquoise flecks and a distinctive dark stripe running through the eye to the caudal fin, makes them a captivating addition to aquariums. Mature males can reach lengths of 12 to 15 cm (4.72 to 5.91 inches), with females being slightly smaller. Like most mbuna, they are known for their aggressive and territorial nature, particularly towards fish of similar size and coloration.

Origin

Purple Mbuna originate from the rocky environments of Lake Malawi, where they inhabit the middle to lower levels of the lake's waters. Their natural habitat is characterized by abundant rock formations and crevices, which they use for hiding and spawning.

Tank Requirements

Given their active and territorial behavior, Purple Mbuna require a spacious aquarium. A minimum tank size of 120 cm (4 feet) in length and 45 cm (18 inches) in width is necessary to provide adequate swimming space and to create multiple territories. The tank should be set up with rocky structures securely placed along the back and sides, forming caves and crevices that mimic their natural habitat. Sand or coral sand is the preferred substrate, as it helps maintain the pH between 7.5 and 8.9.

Water temperature should range from 22-27°C (71.6-80.6°F). Since Purple Mbuna are high waste producers, a robust filtration system is crucial to maintain water quality, along with weekly water changes of at least 10%.

Compatibility and Tank Mates

Purple Mbuna are highly aggressive and territorial, particularly towards other fish of similar size and color. It is advisable to keep only one male with several females to reduce aggression levels, following a harem-style setup. Suitable tank mates include other mbuna species with different colorations and cichlids like Haplochromis of similar size and temperament. Avoid housing them with peaceful or smaller fish, as they may become targets of aggression.

Feeding

Purple Mbuna are not difficult to feed and have an omnivorous diet. They will naturally graze on algae growing on the rocks, which provides roughage. Their staple diet should consist of high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes. This can be supplemented with occasional treats of live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp and bloodworms. They also consume small crustaceans, including snails, cockles, and chopped mussels. A varied diet will help maintain their vibrant coloration and health.

Sexing

Sexing Purple Mbuna can be challenging, but there are some indicators. Mature males are typically larger than females and may display egg spots on their anal fins, which females lack. Females also tend to have a more rounded body shape.

Breeding

Purple Mbuna are prolific breeders once settled in an aquarium. They are maternal mouthbrooders, meaning the female will incubate the fertilized eggs in her mouth for up to four weeks. During this time, the female will often hide and refrain from eating. It is crucial to avoid stressing the female during the incubation period, as stress can cause her to prematurely release or eject the fry. Once the fry are released, they can be fed newly hatched brine shrimp.

While the fry can remain in the main aquarium, for a higher success rate, it is advisable to transfer them to a separate rearing tank. Here, they can grow in a controlled environment before being reintroduced to the main tank once they are large enough to fend for themselves.

Lifespan

With proper care, Purple Mbuna can live for 6-8 years. Providing a stable environment, a balanced diet, and regular tank maintenance are key factors in ensuring their longevity.

General Care

Purple Mbuna are an active and territorial species that require careful tank management. Because of their aggression, maintaining a single male with multiple females is recommended. Ensuring plenty of hiding places with rocks and crevices helps reduce stress and provides natural territory boundaries. Their high waste production necessitates a strong filtration system and regular water changes to keep the tank clean and maintain optimal water parameters.

For the substrate, coral sand is ideal as it not only provides a natural environment but also helps to stabilize the pH level. Incorporating algae growth on rocks is beneficial, as it serves as a natural food source for grazing.

Short Description

The Purple Mbuna (Melanochromis vermivorus) is a vibrant and aggressive cichlid from the rocky shores of Lake Malawi. With its striking dark blue body and turquoise flecks, this species adds a dynamic presence to any aquarium. They require spacious tanks with plenty of rocky structures and hiding places to manage their territorial nature. While they can be challenging to care for due to their aggression and specific requirements, they are highly rewarding for experienced aquarists.

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