Polit
Pseudotropheus sp. "Polit"
Polit is a Lake Malawi mbuna whose males look best when mature, dominant, and settled. After shipping or when subdominant, males may color down, so this fish rewards patience and a properly structured mbuna aquarium.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Lake Malawi Polit-type mbuna stock in the aquarium trade.
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Natural Habitat: Rocky mbuna habitat with caves, ledges, and territories.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: Up to about 5 inches.
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Coloration: Dimorphic; dominant males show the strongest display color, while stressed or subdominant males can temporarily color down.
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Body Shape: Compact mbuna body with an active rock-dwelling profile.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best kept with compatible mbuna in a rock-heavy aquarium with broken sightlines.
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, 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 defend 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 overly aggressive species in small tanks.
