−12%
Moderate
Maingano Cichlid (Melanochromis maingano)
24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 200L
£16.71£18.99
Golden Mbuna Auratus is a bold, aggressive Lake Malawi mbuna for experienced hard-water cichlid keepers. Plan rockwork, line-of-sight breaks and algae-rich feeding, with. Live Arrival Guarantee plus licensed live-animal courier support service.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Melanochromis auratus
Golden Mbuna Auratus Cichlid are a shoaling species — they need 6+ to feel safe and show their full colour.
Golden Mbuna Auratus is a bold, aggressive Lake Malawi mbuna for experienced hard-water cichlid keepers. Plan rockwork, line-of-sight breaks and algae-rich feeding, with. Live Arrival Guarantee plus licensed live-animal courier support service.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Cichlids are one of the most diverse fish families in the hobby. From tiny apistogrammas to massive oscars, this guide covers the basics of keeping them well.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
Golden Mbuna Auratus Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus) is a classic Lake Malawi mbuna with bold yellow-and-dark patterning and a very assertive temperament. Mature males can change into darker patterning, and the behaviour is as strong as the colour: this fish belongs in a robust Malawi cichlid setup, not a calm mixed-species community.
| Listed identity | Melanochromis auratus |
|---|---|
| Adult size | About 11cm |
| Minimum aquarium | 250 litres or larger for a planned group |
| Water | 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, hard alkaline water |
| Diet | Spirulina, vegetable-rich mbuna pellets and algae foods |
| Temperament | Aggressive mbuna |
Use extensive rockwork and broken sight lines. Keep one male with several females, or place it only in a carefully stocked robust mbuna aquarium. Avoid similar-looking males, delicate community fish and rich meaty feeding; a vegetable-led diet is safer for long-term health.
Use as a first-time buyer. This live fish is packed for a licensed live-animal courier service and covered by the Tropical Fish Co Live Arrival Guarantee.
24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 200L
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