Blue electric cichlid - Melanochromis johannii

Scientific name: Melanochromis johannii

Common name: Blue electric cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 8 - 12 cm (3.15 - 4.72 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7.4 - 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: Bottom levels

Feeding

Blue Electric Cichlids are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Their diet should include quality granules, pellets, and vegetable-based foods. Incorporate leafy greens like spinach and spirulina flakes to meet their dietary needs. They will also appreciate treats of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp. Avoid feeding them high-protein foods like beef heart too frequently, as it can lead to digestive issues. Feed small portions two to three times daily to maintain optimal health and vibrant coloration.

Origin

Blue Electric Cichlids, scientifically known as Melanochromis johannii, are native to Lake Malawi in Africa. They inhabit the rocky shorelines, where they find shelter and establish territories among the rocks and crevices. Their natural environment is characterized by alkaline water with a stable temperature and mineral-rich composition.

Sexing

Sexing Blue Electric Cichlids can be visually striking. Juvenile fish are typically yellowish-orange. As they mature, the males undergo a dramatic color transformation, developing a bright blue coloration with distinctive black markings along their bodies. In contrast, females retain their original yellowish-orange hue throughout adulthood. The males also tend to grow slightly larger than the females.

Breeding

Blue Electric Cichlids are mouthbrooders, a common breeding behavior among African cichlids. During spawning, the female lays her eggs in a hidden spot among the rocks. After the eggs are fertilized by the male, she collects them in her mouth, where they will incubate for about 2-3 weeks. During this period, the female may become more reclusive as she protects her brood. After hatching, the fry will remain in the mother's mouth until they are old enough to swim freely and fend for themselves. To increase the survival rate of the fry, consider setting up a separate breeding tank with plenty of hiding places.

Lifespan

With proper care, Blue Electric Cichlids can live for 10-12 years, although they may have a shorter lifespan if subjected to stressful conditions or poor water quality.

Tank Setup and Care

Blue Electric Cichlids are highly territorial and aggressive, so they require a carefully planned tank setup. A minimum tank size of 150 liters (40 gallons) is recommended for a single male with several females. Create a rocky aquascape with plenty of caves, crevices, and hiding spots to help each fish establish its territory. Maintain the water temperature between 22-27°C (71.6-80.6°F) with a pH range of 7.4-8.9 and water hardness between 10-25°N (178.57-446.43 ppm). Use a quality filtration system to ensure clean, well-oxygenated water, and perform regular water changes to keep nitrate levels low.

Tankmates

Given their aggressive and territorial nature, Blue Electric Cichlids are best kept with other robust, similarly aggressive cichlid species. Suitable tankmates include:

Avoid housing them with small, timid fish or species with long, flowing fins, as they may be harassed or attacked.

Short Description

The Blue Electric Cichlid, known for its vibrant blue coloration and aggressive temperament, is not a fish for beginner aquarists. It thrives in a rocky aquarium environment that mimics the rocky shores of Lake Malawi. With proper tank setup, water conditions, and diet, this stunning fish can be a rewarding addition for those experienced in keeping African cichlids.

Sources

Aquarium Fishes of the World by Dr. Herbert R. Axelrod, Dr. Warren E. Burgess, Neal Pronek, Glen S. Axelrod, David E. Boruchowitz
Eyewitness Handbooks: Aquarium Fish by Dick Mills

Pictures

Pictures were provided by Alberto Villarroya. Some pictures were bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.

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Did you know?

Fish are very sensitive to changes of pressure, especially when it’s unexpected and sudden.
Air pumps should be always placed above your aquarium, because they may suck water in case of power outage.
Driftwood might be taken as a natural divider of territories, use more driftwoods if you keep territorial fish.
Pistia stratiotes is a beautiful plant, however is more suitable for ponds. It is OK to move it to aquariums during cold months.
Feed your adult fish once or twice a day (small fish have small stomach, so it needs food more often), while juveniles should be fed up to 6 times a day (when they’re newborns).