Zebra Long Pelvic Chewere
Metriaclima sp. "Zebra Long Pelvic Chewere"
Zebra Long Pelvic Chewere is a very rare Lake Malawi mbuna selected for the long-pelvic look and zebra-type rockwork behavior. Young males may not show the full adult display yet, but they develop better color and fin expression with maturity.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Chewere form from Lake Malawi zebra-type stock.
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Natural Habitat: Rocky shoreline habitat with caves, ledges, and grazing surfaces.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: Up to about 6 inches.
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Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males show stronger color and pattern, while females and immature males are more subdued.
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Body Shape: Robust zebra-type mbuna body with extended pelvic fin expression.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best with compatible mbuna in a rock-heavy aquarium with room for territories.
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, caves, broken sightlines, 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 rocky territories and females mouthbrood eggs and fry.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Other Lake Malawi mbuna and robust African cichlids of similar size.
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Avoid: Cramped tanks, look-alike males, delicate community fish, and very small tank mates.
