The Greshakei Cichlid (Metriaclima sp. Ice Blue) is a beautiful and active fish from Lake Malawi. Its bright blue body and bold orange dorsal fin make it a standout in any aquarium. These cichlids are a great choice for aquarists who love colourful and lively fish.

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Size and Lifespan

Greshakei Cichlids can grow up to 1012 cm in size. With good care and a healthy tank, they can live for 68 years. This makes them a wonderful addition to your aquarium for many years.

Tank Size and Requirements

To keep these cichlids happy, a tank of at least 200 liters is needed. They do best in water temperatures between 24C28C, with a pH level of 7.88.6. Adding plenty of rocks and caves gives them places to hide and set up territories. A sandy bottom also helps them feel more at home. Make sure the tank is clean and the water quality stays high.

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Tank Mates

Greshakei Cichlids are semi-aggressive, especially when breeding or claiming their space. They get along well with other strong Mbuna species, like Yellow Labs, Red Zebras, or Auratus Cichlids.

Avoid keeping them with very timid or overly aggressive fish. To reduce fights, keep one male with multiple females and provide plenty of hiding spots.

Feeding

Feeding these cichlids a healthy diet is key to keeping them vibrant and active. They need high-quality Mbuna pellets or flakes as their main food. Adding spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, or zucchini keeps their diet balanced. For an occasional treat, offer live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia. Avoid too much protein, as it can cause health issues.

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Getting the Best Colours

If you want your Greshakei Cichlid to look its brightest, the right setup and food make a big difference. Unlike many fish, their colours stand out more with adark backgroundanddark substrate. Feeding them withAquaMunch Super Colour productshelps bring out their vibrant blue and orange tones. Adding lighting, likeAquaNice LED Tubes, will make their colours truly glow, turning your aquarium into a stunning display.

Breeding Greshakei Cichlids

Breeding these cichlids is straightforward and rewarding. Males use their bright colours to attract females. The females are mouthbrooders, carrying eggs and fry in their mouths for 1821 days. To encourage breeding, add flat rocks or caves for spawning. Separating the fry into a smaller tank increases their chances of survival. Feed the fry with baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes to help them grow.

FAQs

How big do Greshakei Cichlids get?
They grow up to 1012 cm, making them great for medium-sized tanks.

Are they aggressive?
They can be semi-aggressive, especially when breeding or protecting their territory.

What tank mates are best?
They do well with other Mbuna, like Yellow Labs, Red Zebras, or Auratus Cichlids.

What do they eat?
They eat Mbuna pellets, spirulina flakes, and vegetables like zucchini.

How do they breed?
Females are mouthbrooders, carrying eggs and fry for about 1821 days.

Species Overview

• Species:Metriaclima sp. Ice Blue
• Common Name:Greshakei Cichlid
• Origin:Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet:Omnivore
• PH Range:7.88.6
• Temperature:24C28C
• Max Size:Up to 12 cm
• Tank Size:Minimum 200 liters