Golden Mbuna, also called Auratus Cichlid or Malawi Golden Cichlid, is a freshwater fish in the cichlid family. Its scientific name is Melanochromis auratus.
This fish is native to the southern part of Lake Malawi in Africa, especially from Jalo Reef down to Crocodile Rocks.
It lives in rocky areas and eats algae by nibbling and picking at it.
In aquariums, this fish can be aggressive toward others of its kind.
To help with this behavior, have multiple females for each male. Also, the tank should be at least 100 cm long.
Golden Mbuna Interesting Facts
- Native to Lake Malawi in Africa, Golden Mbuna thrives in rocky areas and feeds on algae.
- In aquariums, this fish can be aggressive; maintaining multiple females per male can help reduce aggression.
- Ideal water conditions: pH 7.0 to 8.5, hardness 10 to 15 dH, temperature 72°F to 79°F (22°C to 26°C).
- The female Golden Mbuna carries eggs in her mouth and cares for the young after laying up to 40 eggs.
Golden Mbuna Habitat
Golden Mbuna is native to Africa and found only in Lake Malawi. It lives in freshwater at the bottom of the lake.
The ideal water conditions for this fish include a pH range between 7.0 to 8.5, water hardness between 10 to 15 dH, and a temperature between 72°F to 79°F (22°C to 26°C).
This tropical fish prefers to live in areas with latitudes between 12°S to 15°S.
| Water Temperature: | 72°F to 79°F (22°C to 26°C) |
| Water pH: | 7.0 to 8.5 pH |
| Water Hardness: | 10 to 15 dH |
Golden Mbuna Physical Characteristics
Size: 4.3 inches (11.0 centimeters)
Golden Mbuna grows up to 4.3 inches (11.0 centimeters) long.
Golden Mbuna Reproduction
Golden Mbuna can lay up to 40 eggs. The female carries the eggs in her mouth and looks after the young ones.
Golden Mbuna Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Melanochromis |
| Scientific Name: | Melanochromis auratus |
| Also Known As: | Golden Mbuna, Auratus Cichlid, Malawi Golden Cichlid |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |