Cobue Zebra
Cynotilapia zebroides
Water Parameters
About
Compact, colorful Mbuna from the Cobue region of Mozambique. Males are intense blue with vertical bars and accentuated fins.
Behavior & Temperament
Moderately aggressive mbuna. Territorial but less bellicose than Pseudotropheus demasoni (Demasoni’s mbuna) or Melanochromis auratus (golden mbuna). Keep in groups with more females than males.
Feeding
Omnivore with herbivorous tendency. In the wild, feeds on plankton and aufwuchs. Accepts spirulina, flakes, pellets and brine shrimp occasionally.
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder. Female carries 10-25 eggs for 18-25 days. Males are blue with dark vertical bars.
Care Notes
Rocky decor with many cavities. Varied, plant‑based diet. Keep in balanced groups.
Compatibility
Compatible with other mbunas of moderate temperament. Good combination with Labidochromis caeruleus and Pseudotropheus saulosi.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Cynotilapia zebroides |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 8.0 cm (3.1") |
| Min Tank | 200 L (53 gal) |
| Min Group | 1+ |
| Diet | Omnivore with herbivorous tendency. In the wild, feeds on plankton and aufwuchs. Accepts spirulina, flakes, pellets and brine shrimp occasionally. |
| Temperament | Moderately aggressive mbuna. Territorial but less bellicose than Pseudotropheus demasoni (Demasoni’s mbuna) or Melanochromis auratus (golden mbuna). Keep in groups with more females than males. |
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