Goldbar

Pseudotropheus sp. "Goldbar"

Goldbar is a very rare Lake Malawi mbuna associated with Chizumulu, known for active rock-dwelling behavior and bold display potential. It is best kept in a structured African cichlid aquarium with hard water, rockwork, and compatible mbuna tank mates.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Chizumulu, Lake Malawi.
• Natural Habitat: Rocky mbuna habitat.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Up to about 6 inches.
• Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males show the strongest Goldbar display traits, while females and juveniles are more subdued.
• Body Shape: Compact mbuna body built for active movement around rockwork.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best kept with compatible Lake Malawi mbuna in a rock-structured 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 or fine substrate, extensive rockwork, caves, sight breaks, 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 hold eggs and fry in the mouth. Fry benefit from dense rock cover or a separate grow-out setup.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Other compatible Lake Malawi mbuna and sturdy African cichlids of similar size and temperament.
• Avoid: Tiny fish, delicate community fish, and highly aggressive mbuna in cramped tanks.