Description
The Pseudotropheus crabro, commonly known as the Bumblebee Cichlid or Hornet Cichlid, is a bold and distinctive Mbuna species from Lake Malawi. Named for its striking yellow-and-black banded coloration, this fish is also known for its unusual cleaning symbiosis with catfish in the wild. P. crabro is a robust and moderately aggressive species that thrives in well-structured aquariums with other Mbuna tank mates and is best suited for experienced hobbyists familiar with African cichlid dynamics.
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Features of Pseudotropheus crabro
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Grows up to 12–15 cm in length
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Juveniles and females are bright yellow with dark vertical barring (bumblebee pattern)
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Males darken significantly with age, sometimes becoming deep brown or almost black
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Known to exhibit cleaning behaviour in the wild, especially with catfish
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Territorial and moderately aggressive, especially when mature or breeding
The Best Aquarium Size for Pseudotropheus crabro
A minimum tank size of 250 litres is recommended for adult specimens. A large, rock-filled aquarium with multiple caves and sight breaks is crucial to reduce aggression and support natural behaviour.
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Tank Mate Compatibility for Pseudotropheus crabro
Compatible with other similarly sized and tempered Mbuna species. Best housed with tank mates that can tolerate their assertiveness and won’t be bullied or outcompeted for food. Suitable tank mates include:
Avoid delicate species, slow swimmers, and fish with similar colour patterns to prevent aggression.
Diet for Pseudotropheus crabro
Primarily herbivorous but opportunistic. Provide a balanced diet rich in plant matter—spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables such as spinach and zucchini. Avoid protein-rich foods like bloodworms, which may cause Malawi bloat.
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Aquarium Setup for Pseudotropheus crabro
Aquarium Filtration
Strong filtration is essential due to their waste output. A high-quality canister or internal filter will help maintain stable water conditions.
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Aquarium Plants
Plants are not essential and may be uprooted. If used, choose hardy varieties like Anubias or Java Fern, secured to hardscape, or use artificial plants.
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Aquarium Lighting
Moderate lighting enhances coloration and supports visual interest in a rock-dominated tank.
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Aquarium Heating
Maintain a stable water temperature between 24°C and 28°C, suitable for Lake Malawi cichlids.
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Aquarium Substrate
Fine sand or smooth gravel supports their digging behaviour and mimics their natural lakebed habitat.
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Aquarium Decorations
Provide a rocky aquascape with numerous caves, crevices, and hiding spaces to reduce aggression and mimic the fish’s natural environment. Use limestone or similar inert rocks to help buffer pH and maintain alkaline water parameters preferred by Mbuna.
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