Golden Mbuna Cichlid: Beautiful and Aggressive (Melanochromis auratus)
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- Опубліковано 7 жов 2024
- The video showcases the captivating world of Golden Mbuna fish, which are known for their striking appearance and distinct characteristics. Originating from Lake Malawi, these cichlids flaunt their bright yellow-gold hues as they glide through the rocky environment that they call home. Viewers are treated to a glimpse into their natural habitat and behavior, learning about their territorial tendencies and natural diet. Whether you're an aquarium enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of tropical fish, this video is sure to delight and inform. And for those who are interested in creating a tank for these unique creatures, the video offers valuable tips on how to create the perfect environment for them to thrive.
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Tank size: At least 30 gallons for a single Golden Mbuna fish, with additional space for each additional fish.
Water parameters: pH level of 7.8-8.6 and a water temperature of 76-82°F (24-28°C).
Tank setup: Decorate the tank with plenty of rocks, caves, and hiding places to mimic their natural habitat.
Diet: Feed them a high-quality pellet or flake diet, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia.
Tankmates: Best kept in a species-only aquarium or with other Mbuna cichlid species.
Breeding: Can be bred in captivity, with males displaying their bright colors to attract females.
Diseases and treatment: Monitor for common fish diseases such as ich, fin rot, and bacterial infections, and provide proper treatment if necessary.
#GoldenMbunaFish #Cichlids #Aquariums
A stunning and distinctive species of cichlid fish called the golden mbuna fish (Melanochromis auratus) is native to Lake Malawi in East Africa. These are also referred to as Auratus Cichlid or Malawi Golden Cichlid. Because to their striking colour, unusual activity, and low maintenance needs, these fish are a favourite among aquarium aficionados.
Size:
In comparison to other cichlid species, golden mbuna fish are little, reaching lengths of only 4-5 inches (10-12 cm). For keeping, small to medium-sized aquariums are ideal.
Habitat:
Golden Mbuna fish live in rocky parts of Lake Malawi in their natural habitat. They prefer water that is 7.8 to 8.6 pH and 76 to 82°F (24 to 28°C) in temperature. To replicate their native habitat, the aquarium should be furnished with lots of rocks, tunnels, and hiding spots.
Color and Markings:
Golden Mbuna fish are distinguished by their vivid yellow-gold colouring, which is accented with black spots and stripes on their fins and bodies. The hue of the juveniles is a paler yellow, which gets darker as they get older. Generally speaking, males are bigger and more colourful than females.
Tank Mates:
Other Mbuna cichlids: These fish are from the same region and are accustomed to similar water conditions and behavior, making them great tank mates for Golden Mbuna fish. Some compatible species include Labidochromis, Pseudotropheus, and Tropheops.
Peacock cichlids: These fish are also from Lake Malawi and can coexist peacefully with Golden Mbuna fish, as long as there is plenty of space in the tank.
Synodontis catfish: These catfish are relatively peaceful and can help keep the tank clean by eating leftover food and debris.
Acei cichlids: These cichlids have a peaceful nature and make great tank mates for Golden Mbuna fish.
Red-tailed sharks: These fish are not from the same region but can coexist peacefully with Golden Mbuna fish if they have plenty of hiding places in the tank.
It's important to note that Golden Mbuna fish are territorial and may become aggressive towards other fish if they feel their territory is being invaded. Always monitor their behavior and provide plenty of hiding places and space in the tank to help prevent aggression.
Food:
The Golden Mbuna fish eat a range of things in their natural habitat, including algae, plankton, tiny invertebrates, and even other small fish. They should be fed a diet in captivity that consists primarily of premium pellets or flakes, with the addition of live or frozen items like brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia.
Breeding:
Breeding Golden Mbuna fish can be a rewarding experience for aquarium enthusiasts. Males are generally larger and more colorful than females. During breeding, males will display their bright colors to attract females. Females will lay their eggs in caves or other hiding places, and the male will fertilize them. The eggs will hatch in 2-3 days, and the fry will be free-swimming after 5-7 days.
Male/Female Differences:
Males are generally larger and more colorful than females, with more elongated dorsal and anal fins. Females tend to have a more rounded body shape and may have a slightly paler coloration.
The Melanochromis Auratus species is the boldest(both male and female) and most magnificent(especially male) fish that I have ever breed. I made home video of the several males fighting. And, it's absolutely spectacular.
Melanochromis Auratus are indeed striking fish, with bold colors and personalities to match! It must have been fascinating to watch the males interacting and displaying their behaviors. Your home video sounds like an amazing capture of their natural instincts. How long have you been keeping and breeding them?
@@AquaWorldInfoFor Yellow Lemon, it is 1998~2008. For Auratus, I don't remember right now but I guess that it is 1998~2003. The Auratus do breed very well just like the Yellow Lemon. The Auratus is very strange or special fish that other bigger or much bigger fishes do rarely attack this fish.
Lovely fish.
I have a Dwarf Cichlid aquarium. Can these live with Melanachromis cyanearhabdis? 🇬🇧
Thank you for your kind words! Dwarf Cichlids are beautiful fish. However, it's generally not recommended to keep them with Melanachromis cyanearhabdis, which is a more aggressive Mbuna cichlid species. Mixing different cichlid species with varying temperaments can lead to compatibility issues and aggression. It's usually best to keep similar-sized and temperament fish together to ensure a harmonious aquarium environment.
That's not the one called golden, this is auratus like it said in the headliner. The one called golden is named Labidochromis caeruleus. So not the same species. Melanochromis breed like auratus, maingano and Johannii for example. :)
Thank you for your comment and for sharing your expertise on fish species! You're correct that the fish in the video is actually Auratus, and not the Labidochromis caeruleus, also known as the Golden Mbuna. I appreciate you bringing this to my attention and helping me to clarify the species. Thanks again!
One day mine was just gone within 12 hours. No body, didn't see him on the floor, don't have a HoB filter.. Only tankmates are 2 African cichlids same juvenile size, and same size red tail shark. Just vanished..
The sudden disappearance of your Golden Mbuna Cichlid is indeed mysterious. In such cases, it's possible that the fish could have hidden in a crevice or substrate, especially if your tank has a lot of hiding spots. Additionally, African cichlids are known for their territorial behavior, and aggressive interactions may occur, leading to potential hiding or even injury. Regular checks of tank decor and observing interactions among tankmates can help uncover any underlying issues. Keep an eye on your aquarium's dynamics and ensure a suitable environment for all inhabitants.
I got mine with a red tail shark they keep fighting might half to take him out
But he might just need to warm up to him im alr seeing him show less interest and the red tail is also learning to stay within the rocks and areas he's not at just seen them both cross paths just now tho with no aggression
Why yellow color mbuna fish changes color to bottom black/brown then upper part is yellow ?
Any suggestions
The color change you're observing in the Golden Mbuna Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus) is likely a natural behavior known as "bluffing" or "blacking out." This occurs when Mbuna cichlids, especially males, display dark coloration on their lower bodies as a territorial or aggressive signal, often during breeding or defending their territory. The upper part retaining its yellow color indicates its original coloring.
To manage this behavior, ensuring adequate space and hiding spots in the tank can help reduce aggression among the fish. Additionally, maintaining good water quality and providing a balanced diet can contribute to their overall well-being and potentially reduce stress-induced color changes.