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The Kenyi Cichlid is an interesting Mbuna, but it is not for everyone. Like most Cichlids from Lake Malawi in Africa it is an aggressive fish. Wild caught Kenyi are very aggressive, however captive-bred Cichlids tend be be a little less aggressive. These Cichlids will grow to five inches in length and have distinct coloring. The male has a yellowish, even golden hue, with faint stripes. In sharp contrast the female has dark blue, even black stripes, on a pale body and only grows to about four inches.

Considering The Habitat:

Like most Cichlids, they are a social fish and prefer to swim with a large group of other members of their species. This presents a challenge for some home aquarium enthusiasts as keeping the Metriaclima lombardoi requires a minimum of a 55 gallon tank but 75 gallons is recommended. Like their home lake, they prefer water between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The best pH will be between 7.8 and 8.2. The habitat itself should have plentiful rocky features and hiding places.

Feeding Requirements:

The m. lombardoi does not have any special feeding requirements. It is similar to other Cichlids as it is a herbivore so a vegetable rich diet will be beneficial. A common Cichlid formula with high Spirulina and vegetation content will meet the needs of the fish.

Breeding The Kenyi:

Enthusiasts who are interested in breeding the Metriaclima Kenyi Cichlid are in luck. Like most Mbuna cichlids, the Kenyi Cichlid is a mouth brooder, which means the females spawn their eggs on a flat rock, scoop them into their mouth, and follow a male for it to fertilize the eggs.