Our Guide To Keeping Orange Blotched Zebra Cichlid Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Metriaclima estherae
   • Common name: Orange Blotched Zebra Cichlid
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: Lake Malawi in Africa
   • Adult length: 10 - 12 cm
   • Lifespan: 5 to 8 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Orange Blotched Zebra Cichlids prefer a spacious tank with plenty of rocks and caves to create territories.
   • Provide a substrate with crushed coral or aragonite to maintain water hardness and pH suitable for cichlids.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Orange Blotched Zebra Cichlids thrive in alkaline water conditions with a pH range of 7.5 to 8.5.
   • Keep the water temperature between 23 to 28°C (73 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Adequate filtration is essential for maintaining water quality, and a moderate water flow is suitable for these cichlids.

5. Diet:

   • Orange Blotched Zebra Cichlids are omnivores. Provide a balanced diet of high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes.
   • Include occasional feedings of live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and spirulina to enhance their coloration.

6. Tank mates:

   • These cichlids can be territorial, so it's best to keep them with other Lake Malawi cichlids in a large enough tank to establish territories.
   • Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive or significantly smaller fish that may be bullied.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Orange Blotched Zebra Cichlids exhibit typical cichlid behavior, establishing territories and forming social hierarchies within the tank.
   • Provide ample hiding spots and structures to alleviate aggression and territorial disputes.