Red zebra - Pseudotropheus estherae

Scientific name: Pseudotropheus estherae

Common name: Red zebra

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 7 - 10 cm (2.76 - 3.94 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.8 - 7.9

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 11 - 21°N (196.43 - 375ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful to females

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

The Red Zebra Cichlid (Pseudotropheus estherae) requires a primarily herbivorous diet to maintain optimal health. High-quality spirulina flakes, algae-based flakes, and specialized cichlid pellets should form the staple diet. Occasional treats such as tubifex, daphnia, and brine shrimp can be offered, but meaty foods should be limited to prevent digestive issues. Feeding small amounts multiple times a day will help maintain proper digestion and avoid overeating.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Native to Lake Malawi in Africa, Pseudotropheus estherae inhabits rocky shorelines and intermediate zones. Their natural environment consists of hard, alkaline water with moderate currents. They are commonly found in areas with abundant algae growth, which serves as a primary food source.

Sexing

Sexing Red Zebra Cichlids is relatively easy due to their distinct sexual dimorphism. Males typically exhibit a blue body coloration, whereas females display a bright orange or reddish hue, sometimes with dark blotches on their bodies. Males also tend to have elongated fins and are more territorial than females.

Breeding

Red Zebra Cichlids are typical maternal mouthbrooders, meaning that the female incubates the fertilized eggs in her mouth for up to three weeks. During this time, she may become reclusive and refuse to eat, which is normal behavior. Once the fry are released, the female will continue to provide protection for another week, gathering them in her mouth at the first sign of danger. Fry can be fed on finely crushed spirulina flakes or newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

With proper care, Pseudotropheus estherae can live between 5 to 8 years. Maintaining stable water conditions, providing a balanced diet, and minimizing stress are crucial factors in ensuring a long and healthy life.

Tank Requirements and Behavior

Red Zebra Cichlids are relatively peaceful for a Mbuna species but can still display territorial tendencies, especially among males. To minimize aggression, it is best to keep one male with multiple females. The tank should be at least 150 liters (40 gallons) and contain plenty of rock structures to create hiding spots and establish territories. Open swimming spaces should be left at the front of the tank. Due to their tendency to overeat, feeding should be carefully monitored to prevent Malawi bloat.

Suitable Tankmates

Due to their relatively mild temperament compared to other Mbuna, Red Zebras can coexist with other peaceful or moderately aggressive Lake Malawi cichlids. Suitable tankmates include:

• Yellow Lab Cichlid (Labidochromis caeruleus)
• Zebra Cichlid (Maylandia zebra)
• Demasoni Cichlid (Pseudotropheus demasoni)
• Trewavas Mbuna (Labeotropheus trewavasae)

Suitable Plants

While Red Zebra Cichlids may dig around plants, hardy species can still be used to enhance the tank’s aesthetics and provide additional shelter. Recommended plants include:

• Anubias (Anubias spp.)
• Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus)
• Vallisneria (Vallisneria spp.)

Short Description

The Red Zebra Cichlid (Pseudotropheus estherae) is a vibrant and relatively peaceful Mbuna species from Lake Malawi. Its striking coloration, ease of care, and interesting mouthbrooding behavior make it a popular choice for cichlid enthusiasts. To thrive, they require a herbivorous diet, a well-structured tank with rock formations, and proper tankmate selection. Due to their tendency to overeat, careful feeding practices are necessary to maintain their health.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.