Description
The Greshakei Cichlid (Metriaclima sp. “Ice Blue”) is a beautiful and active fish from Lake Malawi. Its bright blue body and bold orange dorsal fin make it a standout in any aquarium. These cichlids are a great choice for aquarists who love colourful and lively fish.
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Size and Lifespan
Greshakei Cichlids can grow up to 10–12 cm in size. With good care and a healthy tank, they can live for 6–8 years. This makes them a wonderful addition to your aquarium for many years.
Tank Size and Requirements
To keep these cichlids happy, a tank of at least 200 liters is needed. They do best in water temperatures between 24°C–28°C, with a pH level of 7.8–8.6. Adding plenty of rocks and caves gives them places to hide and set up territories. A sandy bottom also helps them feel more at home. Make sure the tank is clean and the water quality stays high.
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Tank Mates
Greshakei Cichlids are semi-aggressive, especially when breeding or claiming their space. They get along well with other strong Mbuna species, like Yellow Labs, Red Zebras, or Auratus Cichlids.
Avoid keeping them with very timid or overly aggressive fish. To reduce fights, keep one male with multiple females and provide plenty of hiding spots.
Feeding
Feeding these cichlids a healthy diet is key to keeping them vibrant and active. They need high-quality Mbuna pellets or flakes as their main food. Adding spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, or zucchini keeps their diet balanced. For an occasional treat, offer live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia. Avoid too much protein, as it can cause health issues.
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Getting the Best Colours
If you want your Greshakei Cichlid to look its brightest, the right setup and food make a big difference. Unlike many fish, their colours stand out more with a dark background and dark substrate. Feeding them with AquaMunch Super Colour products helps bring out their vibrant blue and orange tones. Adding lighting, like AquaNice LED Tubes, will make their colours truly glow, turning your aquarium into a stunning display.
Breeding Greshakei Cichlids
Breeding these cichlids is straightforward and rewarding. Males use their bright colours to attract females. The females are mouthbrooders, carrying eggs and fry in their mouths for 18–21 days. To encourage breeding, add flat rocks or caves for spawning. Separating the fry into a smaller tank increases their chances of survival. Feed the fry with baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes to help them grow.
FAQs
How big do Greshakei Cichlids get?
They grow up to 10–12 cm, making them great for medium-sized tanks.
Are they aggressive?
They can be semi-aggressive, especially when breeding or protecting their territory.
What tank mates are best?
They do well with other Mbuna, like Yellow Labs, Red Zebras, or Auratus Cichlids.
What do they eat?
They eat Mbuna pellets, spirulina flakes, and vegetables like zucchini.
How do they breed?
Females are mouthbrooders, carrying eggs and fry for about 18–21 days.
Species Overview
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Species: Metriaclima sp. “Ice Blue”
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Common Name: Greshakei Cichlid
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Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
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Diet: Omnivore
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PH Range: 7.8–8.6
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Temperature: 24°C–28°C
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Max Size: Up to 12 cm
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Tank Size: Minimum 200 liters
