Blue Cobalt Zebra

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Metriaclima callainos (previously known as Pseudotropheus callainos)
• Common Names: Blue Cobalt Zebra, Cobalt Blue Zebra Cichlid
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa

Physical Description

• Coloration: Males are characterized by their vibrant cobalt blue bodies, which can sometimes have darker stripes or spots. Females are typically duller in color, often showing a more subdued gray or brownish tone with hints of blue.
• Size: Males can reach sizes of about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm), while females are generally smaller, reaching around 3-4 inches (8-10 cm).
• Body Shape: The Blue Cobalt Zebra has a typical cichlid body shape, which is elongated and somewhat compressed laterally.
• Fins: The dorsal and anal fins are often long and pointed, contributing to their overall streamlined appearance.

Behavior

• Temperament: Blue Cobalt Zebras are semi-aggressive and can be territorial, especially males during breeding. They may display aggression towards each other and other fish, particularly if they feel their territory is threatened.
• Social Structure: Keeping one male with multiple females (harem breeding) is recommended to minimize aggression among males. They can thrive in groups, provided there are enough hiding spots.
• Activity Level: These fish are active swimmers, often seen foraging and exploring their environment.

Habitat

• Natural Habitat: In Lake Malawi, Blue Cobalt Zebras inhabit rocky and sandy areas where they feed on algae and small invertebrates.
• Aquarium Setup: Provide a tank with a sandy substrate and plenty of rocks or caves for hiding and territory establishment. Ensure there is also open swimming space for their active behavior.

Diet

• Feeding: Blue Cobalt Zebras are omnivorous. In captivity, they thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, spirulina-based foods, and occasional treats like frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia).
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice daily, offering only as much food as they can consume in a few minutes.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Blue Cobalt Zebras are maternal mouthbrooders. After laying eggs, the female collects them in her mouth to incubate them until they hatch, usually within 2-3 weeks.
• Nesting: Males establish territories to attract females and will display bright colors and courtship behaviors to gain their attention.
• Fry Care: Once the fry are released, they should be fed baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for a group of Blue Cobalt Zebras, especially if maintaining multiple females and a male.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • pH Level: 7.8 to 8.6 (alkaline)
  • Hardness: 10 to 20 dGH
• Filtration: Strong filtration is necessary to maintain good water quality, as cichlids are sensitive to poor conditions. Regular water changes are also essential.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: They can coexist with other peaceful to semi-aggressive African cichlids, such as other Metriaclima species, Aulonocara, and certain Haplochromis. Avoid mixing them with overly aggressive species or other Mbuna cichlids.
• Behavior with Others: Males can become territorial and aggressive toward other males, especially in smaller tanks. Adequate space and hiding spots can help reduce aggression.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Blue Cobalt Zebras can live for 5 to 8 years in captivity.

Interesting Facts

• The striking blue coloration of the males makes them a favorite among aquarists and adds vibrant color to cichlid displays.
• Blue Cobalt Zebras are known for their interesting behaviors, such as "scooping" substrate while searching for food.