Cynotilapia sp. "Lion" Mara Rocks (Rare)(New!)

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Cynotilapia sp. Lion Mara Rocks

Cynotilapia sp. "Lion"

Cynotilapia sp. Lion Mara Rocks is a rare Lake Malawi mbuna with cave-dwelling rock behavior and strong mature male color. It is an active, territorial fish for keepers who enjoy structured mbuna communities.

Physical Characteristics

  • Size: 5-6 inches.
  • Coloration: Mature males develop the strongest color and pattern; females and juveniles are more subdued.
  • Body Shape: Compact Cynotilapia-type mbuna body.

Origin and Habitat

  • Native Region: Mara Rocks is in northern Lake Malawi on the Malawi-side western shore, close to Usisya Beach Eco-Lodge, Mphandi Point, and Tchinga Reef.
  • Natural Habitat: Intermediate habitat; lives over sandy substrate near rocks, from shallow water to deeper zones (7-98 ft).
  • Distribution: Known from several localities in Lake Malawi; most commonly exported from Lion's Cove.
  • Same-Locality Cichlids: Other cichlids recorded from Mara Rocks include Aulonocara jacobfreibergi 'Mara Rocks', Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Mara Rocks', Chindongo socolofi 'Mara Rocks', and Copadichromis borleyi 'Mara Rocks'.

Behavior and Temperament

  • Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
  • Social Behavior: Best in a mbuna setup with rockwork and enough room for territories.

Aquarium Care

  • Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
  • Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
  • Tank Setup: Use sand, stacked rockwork, caves, broken sightlines, and strong filtration.

Diet and Feeding

Breeding

  • Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
  • Breeding Notes: Males defend rocky territories and display to females. Females mouthbrood eggs and fry, and fry should be protected after release.

Tank Mates

  • Compatible With: Other Lake Malawi mbuna and similar-size African cichlids.
  • Avoid: Look-alike males in cramped tanks, delicate fish, and very small tank mates.

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