Mundola Gold
Metriaclima sp. "Gold Kawanga"
Mundola Gold is a rare Gold Kawanga-type mbuna with the active, territorial behavior expected from Metriaclima rock-dwellers. It is best for structured Malawi mbuna tanks with caves, grazing surfaces, and enough room to break lines of sight.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Lake Malawi Gold Kawanga-type stock in the aquarium trade.
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Natural Habitat: Rocky shoreline mbuna habitat with caves and grazing surfaces.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: Up to about 6 inches.
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Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males show the strongest gold-toned display color, while females and juveniles are more subdued.
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Body Shape: Robust mbuna body with a compact, laterally compressed profile.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best with compatible mbuna in a rock-heavy aquarium.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
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Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
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Tank Setup: Provide sand, stacked rocks, caves, grazing surfaces, and strong filtration.
Diet and Feeding
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Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Mbuna Food.
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Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food.
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Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food.
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Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding.
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Males display near rocky territories and females hold eggs and fry in the mouth.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Other Lake Malawi mbuna and sturdy African cichlids of similar size.
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Avoid: Delicate fish, tiny tank mates, and look-alike males in tight quarters.
