Pearl of Likoma is a freshwater fish with the scientific name Melanochromis joanjohnsonae.
It belongs to the Cichlid family and is found only in Lake Malawi, specifically around Likoma Island and Thumbi West Island.
The species was named after Joan Johnson, who edited The Aquarist magazine where this fish was first described.
Pearl of Likoma is sought after in the aquarium trade. Its diet consists of crustaceans, insects, and larvae.
Pearl of Likoma Interesting Facts
- Pearl of Likoma, scientifically known as Melanochromis joanjohnsonae, is a unique fish found only around Lake Malawi’s Likoma Island and Thumbi West Island.
- Male Pearl of Likomas are blue, while females have greenish-blue colors with yellow spots; they feed on crustaceans, insects, and larvae in rocky underwater areas.
- Named after Joan Johnson, the editor of The Aquarist magazine, where it was first described, this species lives over rocky surfaces at lake bottoms between 1 to 5 meters deep.
- They prefer water with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.5 and temperature between 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C), living in freshwater habitats located around 11°S to 13°S latitude.
Pearl of Likoma Habitat
Pearl of Likoma is native to Lake Malawi in Africa, specifically found around Likoma Island. It has also been introduced to Thumbi West Island.
This fish lives in freshwater environments near the bottom (demersal) at depths of 1 to 5 meters. It’s mostly found over rocky surfaces at the bottom of the lake.
Pearl of Likoma prefers water with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.5 and hardness (dH) from 10 to 15.
The ideal water temperature for this tropical species is between 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C). Its habitat is located around 11°S to 13°S latitude.
| Water Temperature: | 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C) |
| Water pH: | 7.0 to 8.5 pH |
| Water Hardness: | 10 to 15 dH |
Pearl of Likoma Physical Characteristics
Size: 3.9 inches (10.0 centimeters)
Pearl of Likoma grows up to 3.9 inches (10.0 centimeters) long.
Males are blue, while females have a greenish-blue color with yellow spots and shiny gills.
Pearl of Likoma Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Pseudotropheus |
| Scientific Name: | Melanochromis joanjohnsonae |
| Also Known As: | Pearl of Likoma |
| Conservation Status: | Near Threatened |