Red Top Mphanga

Metriaclima emmiltos

Red Top Mphanga is a Lake Malawi mbuna associated with the Mphanga Rocks red-top zebra group. It brings bold rock-dwelling behavior, mature male display color, and the territorial personality expected from Metriaclima-type mbuna.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Mphanga Rocks near Chilumba, Lake Malawi.
• Natural Habitat: Cave-dwelling rocky habitat.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Up to about 6 inches.
• Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males develop the red-top/blue zebra-type look, while females and juveniles are more subdued.
• Body Shape: Compact, robust mbuna body with a zebra-type profile.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best in a mbuna community with rockwork, caves, and 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, stacked rocks, 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 display near rocky 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: Tiny fish, delicate community species, and overly similar males in small tanks.