Yellow Mbuna Cichlids

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Labidochromis caeruleus (commonly labeled as Cichlasoma sp. in the trade)
• Common Name: Yellow Mbuna Cichlid / Electric Yellow Cichlid / Yellow Lab
• Adult Size: 3.5 to 5 inches (9–13 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 6–10 years with good care
• Habitat:
  • Native to Lake Malawi, Africa
  • Found along rocky shorelines

  • Prefers shallow waters with plenty of hiding places

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a small group; 55+ gallons ideal for multiple Mbunas
• Ideal Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Water Hardness: 10–20 dGH

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, but one of the more peaceful Mbunas
  Can be kept with other Malawi cichlids of similar temperament
  Best in groups of 6 or more to reduce aggression

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous, but leans toward herbivorous
• Feed a balanced diet:
  • High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes
  • Spirulina-based food
  • Occasional protein (brine shrimp, bloodworms — sparingly)

• Avoid overfeeding protein to prevent bloat

Breeding & Spawning

• Mouthbrooder species
• Females carry eggs and fry in their mouths for 2–3 weeks
• Provide rock caves and hiding places for courtship and breeding

• Males become more colorful during breeding time

Appearance

• Bright lemon-yellow body
• Fins often have black edging (especially dorsal and anal fins)
• Slender, torpedo-shaped body

• Males and females look similar, but males may be more vibrant

Distinctive Features

• Iconic yellow coloration makes them highly popular
• One of the easiest and most peaceful Mbuna to care for
• Tolerates community setups better than most other Mbunas

• Does well in rocky aquascapes with sand substrate