Polit

Pseudotropheus sp. "Polit"

Polit is a Lake Malawi mbuna whose males look best when mature, dominant, and settled. After shipping or when subdominant, males may color down, so this fish rewards patience and a properly structured mbuna aquarium.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Lake Malawi Polit-type mbuna stock in the aquarium trade.
• Natural Habitat: Rocky mbuna habitat with caves, ledges, and territories.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Up to about 5 inches.
• Coloration: Dimorphic; dominant males show the strongest display color, while stressed or subdominant males can temporarily color down.
• Body Shape: Compact mbuna body with an active rock-dwelling profile.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best kept with compatible mbuna in a rock-heavy aquarium with broken sightlines.

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, 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 defend territories and females hold eggs and fry in the mouth.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Other Lake Malawi mbuna and sturdy African cichlids of similar size.
• Avoid: Delicate fish, tiny tank mates, and overly aggressive species in small tanks.