Blue mbuna - Labeotropheus fuelleborni

Scientific name: Labeotropheus fuelleborni

Common name: Blue mbuna

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 13 - 18 cm (5.12 - 7.09 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 7.5 - 8.8

Recommended water hardness: 12 - 30°N (214.29 - 535.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°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

Common Names

Blue Mbuna, Fuelleborn’s cichlid

Food and Feeding

Labeotropheus fuelleborni is primarily a herbivorous species that feeds on algae and biofilm (aufwuchs) growing on rocks. In the aquarium, provide a diet rich in vegetable matter.

Suitable foods include spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and vegetable-based cichlid pellets. Blanched vegetables such as spinach, peas, and zucchini can also be offered.

High-protein foods such as bloodworms should be avoided or used only rarely, as excessive protein can lead to digestive problems such as Malawi bloat.

Origin

Labeotropheus fuelleborni originates from Lake Malawi in East Africa. It inhabits rocky shorelines where it grazes algae from rock surfaces in highly oxygenated water.

Tank Setup and General Care

This species requires a rocky aquarium with plenty of hiding places and territories. Rocks should be stacked securely to create caves and grazing surfaces.

Strong filtration and good water movement are important. Maintain hard, alkaline water conditions typical of Lake Malawi.

Plants are not necessary and may be damaged or uprooted.

Temperament and Compatibility

Labeotropheus fuelleborni is highly territorial and aggressive, especially toward its own species and other mbuna. It should be kept in a carefully planned Malawi cichlid setup.

Keeping one male with multiple females helps reduce aggression. Avoid mixing with peaceful species or fish with similar body shapes and feeding habits.

Sexing

Males are typically larger and more intensely colored than females. Males also display prominent egg spots on the anal fin.

Breeding

Labeotropheus fuelleborni is a maternal mouthbrooder. After spawning, the female carries the fertilized eggs in her mouth for about three weeks.

Once released, the fry are fully formed and can accept finely crushed flake or specialized fry foods. Brood size is usually between 25-50 fry.

Lifespan

With proper care, this species can live up to 10–12 years.

Short Description

Labeotropheus fuelleborni is a colorful but aggressive mbuna cichlid from Lake Malawi. This species requires a rocky aquarium, a vegetable-rich diet, and careful stocking. Best suited for experienced aquarists keeping African cichlids.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk