William’s mbuna - Maylandia greshakei

Scientific name: Maylandia greshakei

Common name: William’s mbuna

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 12 - 14 cm (4.72 - 5.51 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.8 - 7.6

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 7 - 23°N (125 - 410.71ppm)

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

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Origin

The William’s Mbuna (Maylandia greshakei) hails from the freshwater habitats of Africa, specifically the rocky shores of Lake Malawi. This region's unique environment provides them with numerous rock formations, which they use for shelter, territory, and grazing.

Short Description

William’s Mbunas are renowned for their vibrant colors and semi-aggressive nature, particularly towards smaller fish. In aquariums, they typically grow to a size of 12-14 cm (4.72-5.51 inches). To minimize aggression, it is advisable to avoid housing them with other Mbuna species of similar coloration. A well-decorated tank with ample rockwork and hiding places is crucial. Additionally, performing regular water changes is essential to maintain water quality and keep these fish active and healthy.

Lifespan

When provided with proper care, William’s Mbuna can live for 5-8 years, making them a long-term and colorful addition to your aquarium setup.

General Care

These cichlids thrive in a spacious aquarium with plenty of rockwork that creates natural hiding spots and establishes territories. They prefer water temperatures between 23-26°C (73.4-78.8°F), a pH level of 6.8-7.6, and water hardness in the range of 7-23°N (125-410.71 ppm). Due to their aggressive behavior towards smaller fish, it is best to house them with similarly sized, robust tank mates. Regular water changes are necessary to maintain optimal conditions, reduce stress, and promote overall health.

Food and Feeding

In their natural habitat, William’s Mbunas primarily feed on plankton. In captivity, a vegetable-based diet is vital. Provide a high-quality flake food, supplemented with spirulina flakes and Nori. Incorporating a variety of plant-based foods will help maintain their vibrant coloration and support their digestive health. For more feeding tips, check out our guide on feeding cichlids.

Sexing

Sexing William’s Mbunas can be done by observing size and coloration differences. Males are typically slightly larger than females and exhibit more intense coloration. This visual method is generally the most reliable way to distinguish between the sexes.

Breeding

For successful breeding, it is recommended to keep one male with multiple females to reduce the risk of aggression. During spawning, the female will scoop up the eggs into her mouth, where she will brood them for up to three weeks. After the fry are released, they can be fed with newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flake food to promote healthy growth.

Additional Notes

Due to their semi-aggressive nature, William’s Mbunas are best suited for aquarists with experience managing cichlid tanks. Creating an environment that closely resembles their natural habitat, with plenty of rockwork and regular water changes, can significantly reduce stress and aggressive behaviors. Consistent monitoring of water quality and maintaining a balanced diet are essential for their long-term well-being.

Pictures

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