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.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Lake Malawi, Maison Reef/Chilumba area form.
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Natural Habitat: Rocky shoreline habitat where mbuna graze and defend territories.
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.
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.
