Red Top Gallireya

Maylandia sp. "Red Top Gallireya"

Red Top Gallireya is a Gallireya Reef mbuna with the red-top zebra appeal and active rock-dwelling personality expected from Maylandia/Metriaclima-type fish. It is best for keepers who can provide a structured mbuna tank with plenty of territories.

Origin and Habitat

Native Region: Gallireya Reef, Lake Malawi.
Natural Habitat: Rocky mbuna habitat with caves, ledges, and grazing surfaces.

Physical Characteristics

Size: Up to about 6 inches.
Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males show the strongest red-top display while females and juveniles are more subdued.
Body Shape: Robust zebra-type mbuna body with a compact profile.

Behavior and Temperament

Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
Social Behavior: Best with compatible Lake Malawi mbuna in a rock-heavy aquarium.

Aquarium Care

Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
Tank Setup: Provide sand, extensive rockwork, caves, broken sightlines, grazing surfaces, and strong filtration.

Diet and Feeding

Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Mbuna Food.
Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food.
Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food.
Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding.

Breeding

Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
Breeding Notes: Males display around rock territories and females mouthbrood eggs and fry.

Tank Mates

Compatible With: Other Lake Malawi mbuna and sturdy African cichlids of similar size.
Avoid: Look-alike males in cramped tanks, delicate community fish, and tiny tank mates.