Albino Red Head Mac

Albino Red Head Mac

Tropheops macrophthalmus

Albino Red Head Mac is an albino Lake Malawi mbuna with an assertive temperament and active rock-dwelling behavior. It is best for mbuna keepers who can provide a structured aquarium with hard water, many sight breaks, and robust tank mates.

Origin and Habitat

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

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Up to about 6 inches.
• Coloration: Albino red-head coloration with intensity varying by maturity and dominance.
• Body Shape: Compact, sturdy mbuna body built for active rockwork grazing and territory defense.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best kept with robust, compatible mbuna in a carefully structured aquarium.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended; larger tanks help manage aggression.
• Water Parameters: 78-82°F, pH 7.8-8.6, hard water.
• Tank Setup: Provide extensive rockwork, caves, broken sightlines, sand or fine substrate, and strong filtration.

Diet and Feeding

• Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Peacock & Hap Adult 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 can be territorial. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Robust Lake Malawi mbuna with similar size and temperament.
• Avoid: Peaceful peacocks, timid haps, tiny fish, and under-structured aquariums.