Description
OB Red Zebra – Metriaclima estherae
The OB Red Zebra (Metriaclima estherae) is a striking and popular variant of the well-known Red Zebra Cichlid. This species is highly prized for its vibrant coloration, which can range from bright red to orange, sometimes with spots or a marbled pattern, giving it an appealing look for aquarium hobbyists. Native to the rocky shorelines of Lake Malawi in East Africa, the OB Red Zebra is a relatively hardy cichlid, making it a great addition to aquariums that house a variety of African cichlids.
Introduction
- Common Name: OB Red Zebra
- Scientific Name: Metriaclima estherae
- Size: 4–6 inches (10–15 cm)
- Lifespan: 6–10 years with proper care
The OB Red Zebra is a color morph of the Metriaclima estherae (formerly known as Pseudotropheus estherae), characterized by its bright, fiery hues. The “OB” (Orange Blotch) variant stands out for its irregular spotting or blotching, which adds to its unique and beautiful appearance. This cichlid is known for its vibrant colors, which can range from deep reds and oranges to lighter hues with darker markings.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Habitat: Native to Lake Malawi, the OB Red Zebra inhabits the rocky shorelines of the lake, where it is found in depths ranging from 10 to 30 feet (3 to 9 meters). It prefers areas with plenty of rocks, crevices, and caves, which serve as both shelter and territory.
- Behavior: As a member of the mbuna group, the OB Red Zebra can be quite aggressive, especially towards other cichlids, and is known for its territorial nature. Males are particularly aggressive during breeding times and will establish and fiercely defend their territories. While it can be a peaceful fish when kept with compatible tankmates, the OB Red Zebra’s aggression should not be underestimated.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons (210 liters) is recommended for a group of OB Red Zebras. The size can increase depending on the number of fish in the tank. A larger tank will help to reduce territorial conflicts between males.
- Substrate: A fine gravel or sand substrate works best, mimicking the rocky environment of Lake Malawi. It is important to ensure that the substrate allows for good filtration and water flow.
- Decor: Rocks and caves are essential for creating territories and hiding spots. The OB Red Zebra is territorial, and having multiple rock structures will provide the necessary hiding places for all fish in the tank.
- 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, mimicking the natural light of the lake. Lighting should not be too intense as this can cause stress to the fish.
3. Diet and Feeding
- Diet: OB Red Zebras are omnivores, primarily feeding on algae, small invertebrates, and detritus in their natural habitat. In an aquarium setting, provide a high-quality cichlid pellet or flake food as the main diet, supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. Vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, and peas can also be offered.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed once or twice daily, providing only what the fish can consume within a few minutes. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues, so it’s best to monitor the amount of food given.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Tankmates: The OB Red Zebra should be kept with other Malawi cichlids that are similarly aggressive or semi-aggressive. Compatible tankmates include:
- Other mbuna cichlids, such as Yellow Labs (Labidochromis caeruleus) or Demasoni Cichlids (Pseudotropheus demasoni)
- Synodontis catfish, which can help keep the bottom of the tank clean
- Other species of Metriaclima or Pseudotropheus species that can tolerate similar aggression levels
- Avoid: This species should not be kept with peaceful or slow-moving fish, such as small tetras, guppies, or other species that cannot defend themselves against its territorial behavior. Avoid housing with fish that are too similar in appearance to prevent unnecessary aggression.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Aggression: Like most mbuna cichlids, the OB Red Zebra can be very aggressive, especially towards other males. Males will often fight for dominance, and their territoriality can lead to stress and injury in a tank without sufficient space. To manage aggression, provide ample hiding spots, and ensure that males are not overcrowded.
- Water Quality: Regular water changes (20–30% weekly) are essential to maintain water quality, as African cichlids produce a large amount of waste. A powerful filtration system is a must to keep the tank clean and oxygenated.
- Breeding: The OB Red Zebra is a mouthbrooder, meaning females carry fertilized eggs in their mouths until they hatch. To encourage breeding, offer a varied diet and provide plenty of hiding places for the female to retreat to. After the eggs hatch, the fry can be kept in a separate breeding net or tank until they are large enough to join the main aquarium.
Conclusion
The OB Red Zebra (Metriaclima estherae) is a visually stunning and dynamic addition to a cichlid aquarium, offering a burst of color and energy. While it requires an experienced hobbyist due to its territorial nature and potential aggression, with the right setup and compatible tankmates, it can thrive in an aquarium for years. Its vibrant colors, active behavior, and unique appearance make it a rewarding species for those prepared for the challenge.