Fish
Johanni Cichlid
Melanochromis johannii
Origin: Melanochromis johannii is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. It is a rock-dwelling mbuna inhabiting the lake's rocky shoreline zones, where it feeds on growth and small invertebrates.
Also known as: Blue johanni, Electric blue johanni, Melanochromis johannii
Fact sheet
- Size
- 10 cm
- Lifespan
- 8 years
- Minimum tank size
- 200 L
- Temperature
- 24–28 °C
- pH
- 7.6–8.6
- Hardness GH
- 10–25 °dH
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Social behavior
- Harem
- Group size
- 4+ individuals
- Swimming zone
- Middle, Bottom
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Jumps out
- Yes
- Eats plants
- Yes
Overview
Melanochromis johannii is a striking Malawi mbuna with pronounced sexual colour dimorphism. Females and juveniles are bright orange-yellow, while dominant males are inky blue with alternating dark and light-blue longitudinal stripes. Like other melanochromis it is a territorial, aggressive fish kept as a harem in a rocky tank with hard alkaline water. The contrast of orange females and blue males makes the species very decorative. It suits African-cichlid keepers.
Appearance
The body is elongated and sturdy, 8–10 cm long. Females and juveniles are bright orange-yellow and plain. Dominant males are dark blue (almost black) with light-blue longitudinal stripes. The male's anal fin carries egg-spot releasers. Sexual dimorphism is very strong.
Care
A tank of at least 200 L with abundant rocks, caves, and a sandy bottom. Temperature 24–28 °C, pH 7.6–8.6, hardness GH 10–25 — hard, alkaline water. Powerful filtration, aeration, and regular water changes are needed. Dense stocking spreads aggression.
Feeding
An omnivore leaning vegetarian. The diet is based on vegetable flakes and pellets with spirulina and algae wafers; frozen brine shrimp and cyclops in moderation. Excess protein causes bloat. Feed small portions once or twice daily.
Compatibility
A territorial, aggressive mbuna. Keep as a harem (one male to 3–4 females) with other moderately aggressive mbuna of similar size. Do not combine with peaceful or small fish. Males are intolerant of each other.
Breeding
The female is a mouthbrooder. After spawning on a rock she incubates the eggs in her mouth for about 3 weeks, then releases the fry. Breeding is easy with a harem and correct water.
Fun facts
Juveniles and females of johannii are bright orange, contrasting sharply with the blue males. The species is often confused with the close Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos (maingano). It is named after the fish collector Johan.