Maison Reef Chilumba
Metriaclima fainzilberi
Maison Reef Chilumba is a Metriaclima fainzilberi form known in the hobby for bold zebra-style barring, a strong black cheek area, and the potential for orange edging on the dorsal and tail. Dominant males become standout mbuna in rock-heavy Malawi aquariums.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: Up to about 6 inches.
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Coloration: Dominant males show bold barring, a mostly dark cheek, and possible orange tips on the dorsal and tail; females and juveniles are less intense.
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Body Shape: Robust mbuna body with a laterally compressed profile.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Maison Reef is in far northern Lake Malawi along the western side of the lake, close to Nkafwenge Reef, Kaphaso Reef, and Makankha Rocks.
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Natural Habitat: Rocky habitats ranging from sediment-free shallow rocks to sediment-rich rocky areas at somewhat greater depths.
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Same-Locality Cichlids: Other cichlids recorded from Maison Reef include Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Maison Reef' Aulonocara Maisoni, Chindongo sp. 'elongatus mphanga' Maison Reef, Copadichromis borleyi 'Maison Reef', and Copadichromis sp. 'maison' Maison Reef.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive to territorial.
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Social Behavior: Best kept in a mbuna setup with rockwork, sight breaks, and compatible fish that do not look too similar.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 75 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, extensive rockwork, 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 claim rocky territories and display to females. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Other robust Lake Malawi mbuna and African cichlids of similar size.
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Avoid: Look-alike zebra-type males in tight quarters, delicate fish, and very small tank mates.
