Metriaclima sp. Red Top Galireya Reef

Metriaclima sp."red top gallireya" is found in intermediate zones from rocks to sand at Gallireya Reef. In the lake the males of these species can grow to 10 cm, in the aquarium however they can grow taller because of a good feeding. The males can then grow to about 12 cm, females grow to about 9 cm. Metriaclima sp."red top gallireya" can behave intolerant against equal species, against other inhabitants they are in general tolerant. You can best keep this species with multiple females and other mbuna in an aquarium with a lot of hiding places. In the lake they are mainly feeding themselves with plankton, invertebrates and algae which they find on the rocks and the sand. In the aquarium they are comfortable with any food. They take everything they get offered, like spirulina pellets, mysis, artemia, cyclops and shrimp-peas mix. Food rich of algae like spirulina pellets or flakes is very important to them so this should not be missing on their menu. Metriaclima zebra chilumba is found along the north-east coast of Lake Malawi. The males claim a cave and defend it fiercely against competitors. Mating takes place in this cave. The females look for a small cave in which to hatch the young. The Zebra chilumba is a commonly kept species in the aquarium. Because it grows somewhat larger than the other zebras and its behavior clearly shows that it is the boss in its territory, it is an impressive fish.