Scientific name: Melanochromis johannii Common name: Blue electric cichlid Family: Cichlidae Usual size in fish tanks: 8 - 12 cm (3.15 - 4.72 inch) 0 14 Recommended pH range for the species: 7.4 - 8.9 Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 25°N (178.57 - 446.43ppm) 0°C 32°F 30°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 Accepts all common fish food such as granules, tablets, vegetables, beef heart, spinach. Sexing Young Johannii Cichlids are yellowish-orange in color. The females will retain the color throughout adulthood while the males develop the shockingly blue color with uniquely patterned markings. Breeding This Blue Electric Cichlid exhibits typical mouthbrooding behavior. The female will hold her brood in her mouth until they are old enough to fend for themselves. Lifespan 10-12 years, usually less. Origin The Johannii Cichlid is found in Lake Malawi among the rocky shoreline. Description The Blue Johannii Cichlid is extremely aggressive. This cichlid should be kept with other aggressive fish. 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.
