Description
Kenyi Cichlid – Maylandia lombardoi
The Kenyi Cichlid (Maylandia lombardoi) is a stunning and aggressive African cichlid that is native to the rocky shorelines of Lake Malawi. Known for its striking blue or yellow coloration, depending on the sex, the Kenyi Cichlid is a favorite among aquarium hobbyists seeking a bold and colorful fish. With its territorial nature and beautiful hues, the Kenyi is best suited for an experienced aquarist familiar with African cichlid care.
Introduction
- Common Name: Kenyi Cichlid
- Scientific Name: Maylandia lombardoi
- Size: 4–6 inches (10–15 cm)
- Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care
The Kenyi Cichlid is easily recognizable due to its vibrant yellow or blue coloration. Males are typically a brilliant blue with darker vertical bars, while females are often a striking yellow. This cichlid is a member of the mbuna group, and like other mbuna species, it is known for being territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Habitat: Native to Lake Malawi, the Kenyi Cichlid is found in the rocky and rocky-sand areas of the lake, typically at depths of 10–20 feet (3–6 meters). It inhabits crevices and rocky outcroppings, where it can establish its territory and feed on algae and small invertebrates.
- Behavior: As a member of the mbuna group, the Kenyi is highly territorial, especially during breeding periods. Males are particularly aggressive toward each other, and females can also exhibit aggression, although generally less so. The Kenyi is an active fish that thrives in a dynamic, well-structured aquarium with plenty of hiding spots.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons (210 liters) is recommended for a group of Kenyi Cichlids. This size allows for multiple fish to establish territories and reduces the likelihood of aggression.
- Substrate: A fine gravel or sand substrate is ideal, which mimics the rocky environment of Lake Malawi. Ensure that the substrate is not too fine to avoid waste accumulation and maintain water quality.
- Decor: Rocks and caves are essential for creating hiding spots and territorial boundaries. The Kenyi Cichlid needs plenty of crevices and caves where it can seek refuge from other aggressive fish. Avoid large open spaces where territorial disputes may be more frequent.
- Water Conditions:
- Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
- pH: 7.5–8.5 (alkaline)
- Hardness: 10–20 dGH (moderately hard to hard)
- Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal. Overly bright lighting can stress the fish and disrupt their natural behavior, especially during territorial disputes.
3. Diet and Feeding
- Diet: The Kenyi Cichlid is primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae in the wild, although it will also consume small invertebrates. In an aquarium, provide a varied diet consisting of high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes, as well as algae wafers. Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms to provide additional protein.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed the Kenyi Cichlid once or twice a day, offering only what the fish can consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding. A varied diet is important to maintain their health and vibrant colors.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Tankmates: The Kenyi Cichlid is best kept with other mbuna cichlids or similarly aggressive species. Suitable tankmates include:
- Other mbuna cichlids, such as Yellow Labs (Labidochromis caeruleus) or Demasoni Cichlids (Pseudotropheus demasoni)
- Other Maylandia species, such as Peacock Cichlids
- Synodontis catfish can be a good addition as bottom dwellers that avoid interaction with the cichlids.
- Avoid: Peaceful or slow-moving fish, such as small tetras, catfish, or livebearers, should be avoided as tankmates. The Kenyi Cichlid’s territorial and aggressive nature can lead to stress or injury for more docile species.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Aggression: One of the primary challenges of keeping Kenyi Cichlids is their territorial nature. Males, in particular, will fight over space, especially in smaller tanks. To reduce aggression, provide plenty of rocks and caves to establish clear territories, and ensure a larger tank size to give the fish space to spread out.
- Water Quality: As with all African cichlids, maintaining water quality is essential. Perform regular water changes (20–30% weekly) to ensure the water remains clean and free of excess nutrients. Use a strong filtration system to handle the bioload of multiple cichlids in the tank.
- Breeding: The Kenyi Cichlid is a mouthbrooder, with the female carrying fertilized eggs in her mouth until they hatch. After hatching, the female will continue to care for the fry in her mouth for several weeks. Ensure plenty of hiding spots for the female to retreat to, and provide a separate breeding tank if needed to protect the fry.
Conclusion
The Kenyi Cichlid (Maylandia lombardoi) is a striking and energetic species that can add both beauty and excitement to an African cichlid tank. While their territorial nature requires careful management of tank space and fish compatibility, their vibrant colors and active behavior make them a rewarding species for aquarists who are up for the challenge.