Sediment-free rocky habitat, also occurring in intermediate zones.
Geographic distribution:
Occurs along the rocky coasts between Makanjila Point in Malawi and the Lumessi River in
Mozambique.
Typical adult size:
Males reach a total length of approximately 8 cm, while females grow to about 7 cm.
Recommended aquarium size:
An aquarium volume of 250 L is recommended.
Aquarium setup:
The aquarium should contain plenty of rocks to form structures and hiding places, with
fine sand used as the bottom substrate.
Diet:
Primarily herbivorous, feeding mainly on algae grazed from rock surfaces. Some individuals
have also been observed feeding on larvae of the catfish Bagrus meridionalis.
Breeding:
Males in breeding coloration are present throughout the year but have not been observed
defending territories. Females occur singly or in small groups of up to five individuals.
Spawning takes place on sand, alongside a rock.
Aggression:
Very aggressive within the species, particularly among males, while generally tolerant
toward other species.
Special notes:
Distinguished from related species by a combination of body proportions, scale counts on
the cheek, fin-ray numbers, and colour pattern. Males display a black ground colour with
yellow and white horizontal stripes, while females show thin yellow abdominal stripes that
never cover the entire lower abdomen. The lower lobe of the caudal fin bears black spots.
Photo gallery