Discover the ultimate Mbuna Cichlid care guide. Learn about tank setup, lifespan, diet, size, and ideal tank mates for healthy and colorful Mbuna cichlids.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
When I set up my very first African cichlid tank, I had no idea what I was getting into. I thought I was prepared—good filter, decent tank, some rocks. Then came the Mbuna cichlids, and suddenly, my aquarium was alive with color, movement, and yes, a bit of chaos.
Quick Answer: Mbuna cichlid care requires a spacious rocky tank, stable water conditions, a plant-free setup, and a herbivore-friendly diet to keep them healthy and vibrant.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Mbuna Cichlids—from tank setup to lifespan, diet, tank mates, and care tips based on years of personal experience.
1. What Are Mbuna Cichlids?
Mbuna cichlids are a group of rock-dwelling fish from Lake Malawi in Africa. Their name, “Mbuna,” literally means “rockfish” in the local language.
They are known for their:
-
Vibrant colors (yellows, blues, oranges, and stripes)
-
Active personalities
-
Territorial nature
Quick Answer: Mbuna cichlids are colorful, rock-dwelling fish from Lake Malawi, famous for their beauty and bold behavior.
When I first stocked them, I was mesmerized by how they darted in and out of the rocks like tiny underwater bees guarding their hive.
2. Mbuna Cichlid Size and Lifespan
-
Size: Most Mbuna grow between 4–6 inches, though some species can push closer to 7 inches.
-
Lifespan: With good care, Mbunas live 7–10 years in captivity.
Quick Answer: Mbuna cichlids typically grow to 4–6 inches and live up to 10 years with proper care.
My oldest Mbuna lived just over 8 years, which still amazes me—it felt like having a little aquatic bulldog with me for almost a decade.
3. Mbuna Cichlid Tank Setup
A proper tank setup is the foundation of healthy Mbuna care.
-
Tank size: Minimum 55 gallons for a small group. Larger is always better.
-
Aquascape: Lots of rocks and caves—they need hiding spots and territories.
-
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel works best.
-
Filtration: Strong filtration is critical. Mbunas are messy eaters and need excellent water quality.
-
Plants: Avoid live plants—Mbunas will uproot and eat them.
Quick Answer: Keep Mbunas in a 55-gallon+ rocky tank with strong filtration and minimal plants.
4. Mbuna Cichlid Water Parameters
Mbunas thrive in stable water conditions that mimic Lake Malawi.
-
Temperature: 75–82°F
-
pH: 7.8–8.6
-
Hardness: 10–20 dGH
Quick Answer: Maintain warm, alkaline water (75–82°F, pH 7.8–8.6) for Mbuna cichlids.
I struggled with pH at first until I added crushed coral to my filter. It stabilized everything and my Mbunas immediately became more active.
👉 Tip: CaribSea African Cichlid Mix is a great substrate to maintain the right hardness and pH.
5. Mbuna Cichlid Diet and Feeding
Mbunas are primarily herbivores, grazing on algae and plant matter. Feeding them too much protein can cause Malawi Bloat, a deadly condition.
Feed them:
-
Spirulina flakes
-
Vegetable-based pellets
-
Occasional peas, spinach, or zucchini
-
Minimal protein (only as a treat)
Quick Answer: Feed Mbuna a mostly vegetarian diet with spirulina flakes and veggie pellets, avoiding excess protein.
When I first kept Mbunas, I made the mistake of giving them too much bloodworm. Within days, I saw signs of bloating. Since switching to spirulina-based food, I’ve had no issues.
👉 Tip: Zoo Med Spirulina 20 Flake Fish Food have been my go-to Mbuna staple for years.
6. Mbuna Cichlid Behavior and Tank Mates
Mbunas are active, territorial, and sometimes aggressive. That’s part of their charm—but it means you need to choose tank mates wisely.
Good tank mates include:
-
Other Mbunas (in large numbers to spread aggression)
-
Certain peaceful Malawi haps or peacocks (with caution)
-
Synodontis catfish (bottom-dwellers that hold their own)
Tank mates to avoid:
-
Small community fish (tetras, guppies, etc.)
-
Fragile or slow-moving fish
-
Overly aggressive haps
Quick Answer: Keep Mbunas with other Mbunas or tough catfish, but avoid mixing with small or delicate species.
7. Mbuna Cichlid Breeding
Mbunas are mouthbrooders, meaning the female carries eggs and fry in her mouth for 3–4 weeks.
-
Males often display bright colors to attract females.
-
Females hold fry in their mouths until they’re ready to swim.
Quick Answer: Mbunas are mouthbrooders, with females carrying fry in their mouths for up to a month.
The first time I saw a female release tiny fry, I was stunned—it looked like she was spitting out confetti that suddenly started swimming.
8. Mbuna Cichlid Health Concerns
The most common health issue is Malawi Bloat, caused by high-protein diets or stress. Other risks include ich and fin rot.
Prevention tips:
-
Stick to a veggie-heavy diet
-
Keep stress low with enough hiding spots
-
Perform regular water changes
Quick Answer: Prevent Malawi Bloat with a herbivore diet, reduce stress with caves, and maintain clean water.
9. Mbuna Cichlid Care Checklist
For quick reference:
-
Tank size: 55 gallons+
-
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
-
Aquascape: Rocky caves, no plants
-
Diet: Spirulina, veggie pellets
-
Size: 4–6 inches (max 7)
-
Lifespan: 7–10 years
-
Behavior: Active, territorial, aggressive at times
-
Tank mates: Other Mbunas, Synodontis catfish
Quick Answer: Give Mbunas space, rocks, veggie diet, and strong filtration to keep them healthy long-term.
Conclusion
Mbuna cichlids aren’t the easiest fish to care for, but they’re among the most rewarding. With their bold personalities, vivid colors, and lively interactions, they bring a unique energy to your aquarium.
Quick Answer: Mbunas need space, rocks, alkaline water, and a veggie-heavy diet to thrive.
If you’re ready for the challenge, Mbunas will give you years of aquarium enjoyment—and a front-row seat to one of the most colorful freshwater communities in the hobby.
FAQs About Mbuna Cichlid Care
How big do Mbuna cichlids get?
Most grow 4–6 inches, with some reaching 7 inches.
What is the ideal Mbuna tank setup?
A 55+ gallon rocky tank with caves, sand substrate, and strong filtration.
What is the lifespan of Mbuna cichlids?
They typically live 7–10 years with proper care.
Can Mbunas live with other fish?
Yes, but best with other Mbunas or tough catfish—not small community fish.
What do Mbuna cichlids eat?
A mostly vegetarian diet of spirulina flakes, veggie pellets, and occasional veggies.