
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Labidochromis caeruleus
A Lake Malawi mbuna washed in deep golden yellow. Calm and hardy by mbuna standards and readily spawned in the aquarium, it is the standard entry-level African cichlid.
Labidochromis caeruleus is an mbuna restricted to the rocky shores of northwestern Lake Malawi. FishBase records a maximum of 8.1cm SL, while Seriously Fish gives 10cm. Most traded fish belong to the deep-yellow form, with the black band on the leading edge of the dorsal and pelvic fins showing more strongly in males. In the wild it nibbles algae from rock surfaces, so a plant-based diet built around spirulina suits it in captivity. It is among the least aggressive mbuna; a 90 x 45cm tank (about 150 litres) with one male to several females is the usual arrangement. Stable hard alkaline water at pH 7.7-8.6 and 10-25 dGH is the key to long-term success. It is a maternal mouthbrooder and will spawn in the aquarium once conditions are right.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Electric Yellow Cichlid lives 8-12 years.
The Electric Yellow Cichlid grows to 8-10cm.
The ideal temperature for the Electric Yellow Cichlid is 24〜28℃.
Origin
Lake Malawi, northwestern shore, Africa (endemic)
Lifespan
8-12 years
Size
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: Labidochromis caeruleus Fryer, 1956
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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8-10cm
Temperature
24〜28℃
Spirulina-based prepared foods, frozen foods
90 x 45cm (about 150 litres) or larger. Stack rock and shelters to create hiding places and territorial boundaries, over a sandy substrate.
24-28C, pH 7.7-8.6, 10-25 dGH. Keep the water hard and alkaline and avoid sudden swings.
Peaceful for an mbuna and can be combined with other mbuna of different colour and pattern. A harem of one male to several females is standard.
Base the diet on vegetable matter such as spirulina flake and blanched spinach, with frozen foods only as a supplement.
A maternal mouthbrooder. After spawning the female carries the brood for three to four weeks, feeding little during that time.
A diet too rich in animal protein causes digestive problems. In crowded tanks watch for nitrate build-up and change water regularly.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Electric Yellow Cichlid is 24〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Electric Yellow Cichlid is 8-12 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Electric Yellow Cichlid typically reaches 8-10cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Electric Yellow Cichlid feeds on: Spirulina-based prepared foods, frozen foods. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Electric Yellow Cichlid varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026