Melanochromis Johanni

The Melanochromis johannii, also known as the Electric Blue Johanni, is a vibrant and aggressive Mbuna cichlid native to the rocky shorelines of Lake Malawi. This species is best known for its sexual dimorphism—males display striking electric blue and black horizontal stripes, while females and juveniles are a bright golden-yellow or orange. Popular among African cichlid enthusiasts for their colour contrast and energy, M. johannii requires a well-structured tank and experienced care to manage its territorial nature. Shop live aquarium fish online with confidence, with our livestock delivery guarantee. Features of Melanochromis johannii Reaches up to 10–12 cm in length Males: bold electric blue body with black horizontal bars Females: vibrant yellow to orange, offering dramatic colour contrast Highly aggressive and territorial, especially in confined spaces or during breeding Displays typical Mbuna behaviour—rock-dwelling and substrate-foraging The Best Aquarium Size for Melanochromis johannii A minimum tank size of 200 litres is recommended for a small group. A larger aquarium is strongly advised if housing with other Mbuna, as this species is highly aggressive and benefits from a tank layout that allows multiple territories and visual barriers. After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse our Aquarium Tank Selection here Tank Mate Compatibility for Melanochromis johannii Best kept with other aggressive Mbuna that can hold their own. Tank mates should be similar in size, temperament, and not resemble the Johanni in shape or colour to prevent excessive targeting. Suitable companions include: Red Zebra (Maylandia estherae) Socolofi Cichlid (Pseudotropheus socolofi) Auratus Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus) – with caution Labeotropheus fuelleborni Yellow Lab (Labidochromis caeruleus) – in well-managed setups Avoid mixing with peaceful fish, non-Mbuna species, or other Melanochromis to reduce hybridisation and aggression. Diet for Melanochromis johannii Herbivorous diet is essential to avoid health issues. Feed high-quality spirulina flakes, algae-based pellets, and supplement with blanched vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or peas. Avoid protein-heavy foods like bloodworms, which can cause bloat. After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse our Aquarium Tank Selection here   Aquarium Setup for Melanochromis johannii Aquarium Filtration Strong biological and mechanical filtration is vital due to their activity and waste output. A canister filter or high-performance internal filter is recommended. After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse our Aquarium Tank Selection here   Aquarium Plants Not plant-friendly—most soft or rooted plants will be uprooted. Use hardy species like Anubias or Java Fern, secured to rock or driftwood, or opt for artificial plants. Interested in live plants for your aquariums? Browse live plants here.   Aquarium Lighting Moderate to bright lighting enhances the striking coloration of both males and females. Need aquarium lighting for your fish tank? Browse our  Aquarium Lighting.   Aquarium Heating Maintain a stable water temperature between 24°C and 28°C, consistent with Lake Malawi conditions. Looking for a suitable fish tank heater? Shop aquarium heaters here.   Aquarium Substrate Fine sand or smooth gravel is ideal, allowing natural digging and territory marking behaviours. Shop a  variety of Aquarium Substrates here   Aquarium Decorations Use plenty of rock structures and caves to create hiding places and define territories. Inert rocks like limestone also help maintain the hard, alkaline water conditions preferred by Mbuna cichlids. Check out our huge range of Aquarium Ornaments