Elongatus Chailosi
Metriaclima sp. "Elongatus Chailosi"
Elongatus Chailosi is a Lake Malawi mbuna with a slimmer elongatus-type body and sharp male patterning. It is active, colorful, and manageable compared with some rougher mbuna, but still does best in a properly structured African cichlid aquarium.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Lake Malawi.
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Natural Habitat: Intermediate rocky zones where mbuna graze and hold territories near cover.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: Up to about 6 inches.
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Coloration: Males develop stronger dark barring and blue-yellow contrast; females and juveniles are more subdued.
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Body Shape: Elongated mbuna body with a streamlined profile.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best kept with mbuna and African cichlids that look different enough to reduce male-on-male pressure.
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: Use sand, stacked rockwork with many sight breaks, 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 defend 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 mbuna and Lake Malawi cichlids of similar size that do not closely match the male pattern.
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Avoid: Look-alike males in cramped tanks, delicate community fish, and overly passive species.
