Melanochromis johannii - (No Online Purchases)

The Melanochromis johannii, often called the Electric Blue Johanni Cichlid or Blue Johanni, is a popular freshwater fish among aquarium enthusiasts, especially those interested in African cichlids.

Origin and Habitat:

Native to Lake Malawi in Africa, specifically inhabiting shallow, rocky areas.

They are "Mbuna" cichlids, a term referring to rock-dwelling species known for their active and often territorial nature.

Appearance and Size:

Size: They typically grow to about 10-13 cm (4-5 inches) in length, with males being slightly larger.

Sexual Dimorphism: This species exhibits striking sexual dimorphism:

Males: Display a vibrant electric blue body with distinct black horizontal stripes.

Females: Are bright yellow to orange in coloration, making them easy to distinguish from males. Juvenile fish also share the yellowish-orange hue of the females, with males developing their blue coloration as they mature (around 5 cm).

Temperament and Tank Mates:

Aggression: Melanochromis johannii are considered semi-aggressive and territorial. They are less aggressive than some other Melanochromis species (like M. auratus) but still require careful tank mate selection.

Tank Mates: Best kept in African cichlid community tanks with other robust, similarly tempered Mbuna species. Good tank mates include Yellow Labs (Labidochromis caeruleus), Red Zebra Cichlids (Maylandia estherae), and other cichlids of comparable size and aggression.

Avoid: Small, slow-moving, or timid fish, as they will likely be harassed. Also, avoid other Melanochromis species like M. auratus due to potential aggression and hybridization.

Controlled Overcrowding: To help diffuse aggression, especially among multiple males, "controlled overcrowding" with other suitable cichlids is often recommended. This spreads out aggression among more fish.

Aquarium Care:

Tank Size: A minimum of 120-150 liters (30-40 gallons) is recommended for a single male with several females. Larger tanks are ideal for a colony or mixed cichlid setups.

Water Parameters: Replicating their natural Lake Malawi environment is crucial:

Temperature: 24-28°C (75-82°F)

pH: 7.5-8.6 (alkaline water)

Hardness (GH): 10-25 dGH (hard water)

Substrate: Sandy or fine gravel substrate is preferred.

Decorations: Provide an abundance of rock formations, caves, and hiding spots. These structures are essential for creating territories and reducing aggression. Melanochromis johannii spend a lot of time near the bottom, exploring rockwork.

Plants: Live plants are generally not recommended as Mbuna tend to dig and uproot them. If you use plants, choose hardy options like Anubias or Java Fern that can be attached to rocks.

Filtration: Strong filtration is essential to maintain high water quality, as these fish are sensitive to poor conditions.

Water Changes: Regular biweekly water changes (around 25%) are necessary to keep nitrate levels low.

Diet:

Primarily Herbivorous: Melanochromis johannii are primarily herbivorous in the wild, feeding on algae (aufwuchs) from rocks.

Aquarium Diet: Their diet should be rich in plant-based foods to prevent digestive issues like Malawi bloat.

Staple: High-quality spirulina-based flakes or pellets designed for African cichlids.

Supplements: Blanched vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and peas.

Avoid: Excessive protein-rich foods like bloodworms or beef heart, as they can lead to digestive problems. Feed small portions two to three times daily.

Breeding:

Mouthbrooders: Melanochromis johannii are maternal mouthbrooders, meaning the female carries the fertilized eggs and fry in her mouth until they are old enough to swim freely.

Spawning: The male will establish a territory and display vibrant colors to court the female. After the female lays eggs, she scoops them into her mouth, and the male fertilizes them.

Incubation:The incubation period typically lasts 2-3 weeks, during which the female will not eat and may become reclusive.

Fry Care: Once released, the fry are fully formed and can be fed crushed flake food or newly hatched brine shrimp. A separate breeding tank can increase fry survival rates.

Lifespan:

With proper care, Melanochromis johannii can live for 8-10 years, and some sources suggest up to 10-12 years.

Key Considerations:

Due to their territorial nature and specific water parameter requirements, Melanochromis johannii are best suited for aquarists with some experience in keeping African cichlids.

Always ensure plenty of hiding places to minimize aggression, especially when keeping multiple individuals.

Be aware that there can be confusion with Melanochromis cyaneorhabdos (Maingano Cichlid), which also has "electric blue" in its common name. While both are similar, the key distinction is that female M. johannii are yellow/orange, while female M. cyaneorhabdos are blue with black stripes, similar to the males.