The Joanjohnsonae, commonly known as the Pearl of Likoma, is an elegant and visually stunning cichlid species endemic to Lake Malawi. This species is prized for its shimmering pearl-like spots that adorn a sleek, streamlined body, making it a standout among African cichlids. The Pearl of Likoma exhibits peaceful to moderately territorial behaviour and thrives in well-structured rocky habitats that resemble its natural environment near Likoma Island.

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Features of Joanjohnsonae – Pearl of Likoma

• Reaches up to 15 cm in length

• Displays iridescent pearl-like spots across a silver to bluish body

• Males are more brightly coloured and territorial than females

• Peaceful to moderately territorial temperament

• Active swimmer with graceful movement

The Best Aquarium Size for Joanjohnsonae – Pearl of Likoma
A minimum tank size of 200 litres is recommended to provide ample swimming space and territory. The aquarium should include plenty of rocky formations and caves to mimic its natural habitat.

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Tank Mate Compatibility for Joanjohnsonae – Pearl of Likoma
Best kept with similarly sized and temperament Lake Malawi cichlids. Suitable tank mates include:

• Yellow Lab (Labidochromis caeruleus)

• Acei Cichlid (Pseudotropheus acei)

• Red Zebra (Maylandia estherae)

• Rusty Cichlid (Iodotropheus sprengerae)

• Other peaceful Mbuna species

Avoid overly aggressive or much larger species that could stress the Pearl of Likoma.

Diet for Joanjohnsonae – Pearl of Likoma
Omnivorous with a tendency toward herbivory. Provide a balanced diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms to maintain health and vibrant coloration.

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Aquarium Setup for Joanjohnsonae – Pearl of Likoma

Aquarium Filtration
Efficient biological and mechanical filtration is essential to maintain pristine water conditions.

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Aquarium Plants
Live plants may be uprooted; hardy plants like Anubias or Java Fern attached to rocks are recommended. Artificial plants can be used as an alternative.

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Aquarium Lighting
Moderate lighting enhances the pearl-like iridescence and overall coloration.

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Aquarium Heating
Maintain water temperature between 24C and 28C to replicate Lake Malawis tropical climate.

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Aquarium Substrate
Use fine sand or smooth gravel to simulate the natural lakebed environment.

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Aquarium Decorations
Provide a rocky aquascape with caves, crevices, and ledges for territorial boundaries and shelter. Use inert rocks such as limestone to maintain the alkaline, hard water conditions typical of Lake Malawi.

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