Mbenji OB Zebra
Metriaclima zebra
Mbenji OB Zebra is a Lake Malawi mbuna strain with MC/OB patterning from Mbenji stock. It brings the active behavior and rockwork energy of zebra-type mbuna with the added visual variety of OB blotching.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Lake Malawi; Mbenji form in the aquarium trade.
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Natural Habitat: Rocky shoreline habitat where zebra-type mbuna graze and defend territories.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: Up to about 6 inches.
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Coloration: Variable MC/OB blotching; males often show stronger color and pattern with maturity.
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Body Shape: Robust zebra-type mbuna body.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best in a mbuna community with rockwork and compatible fish that do not look too similar.
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, rock piles with many caves and 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 mouthbrood eggs and fry, and fry should be protected after release.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Other Lake Malawi mbuna and similarly sized African cichlids.
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Avoid: Look-alike zebra males in cramped tanks, small community fish, and delicate species.
