
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Melanochromis auratus
Females and juveniles are yellow with black longitudinal stripes, while mature males invert to gold stripes on a dark brown body. One of the most aggressive mbuna, it cannot be mixed with peaceful fish.
Melanochromis auratus is a rock-dwelling mbuna endemic to Lake Malawi. FishBase records a maximum of 11cm TL and Seriously Fish gives 11cm SL. Females and juveniles are yellow with black and white longitudinal stripes, but on maturity males invert the pattern, becoming dark brown with gold stripes. In the wild it nibbles algae from rock, so a plant-based diet is required in captivity. It is among the most aggressive mbuna: housed together, subordinate males are worn down and may die, so keep a single male with several females. FishBase gives a minimum aquarium length of 100cm and Seriously Fish suggests 120 x 45cm (about 205 litres). Maintain pH 7.6-8.8, 10-25 dGH and 24-28C. Females are maternal mouthbrooders.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Golden Mbuna lives 8-12 years.
The Golden Mbuna grows to 11-13cm.
The ideal temperature for the Golden Mbuna is 24〜28℃.
Origin
Lake Malawi, Africa (endemic)
Lifespan
8-12 years
Size
11-13cm
Sources: Seriously Fish / FishBase
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Melanochromis auratus (Boulenger, 1897)
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / FishBase (IUCN assessment: LC)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Temperature
24〜28℃
Spirulina-based prepared foods, frozen foods
FishBase gives a 100cm minimum and Seriously Fish suggests 120 x 45cm (about 205 litres). Pack in rockwork to divide territories.
24-28C, pH 7.6-8.8, 10-25 dGH. Keep hard alkaline conditions stable.
Not compatible with peaceful fish. Only robust mbuna of different patterning work. Keep one male to several females and avoid multiple males even in large tanks.
An algae grazer: base the diet on spirulina flake and blanched greens, with animal foods only as a supplement.
A mouthbrooder. Spawn one male with at least three females; the fry are large enough to take brine shrimp nauplii from birth.
Harassed fish easily develop bacterial infections from abrasions. Remove any fish being chased without delay.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Golden Mbuna is 24〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Golden Mbuna is 8-12 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Golden Mbuna typically reaches 11-13cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Golden Mbuna feeds on: Spirulina-based prepared foods, frozen foods. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Golden Mbuna varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026