Ice Blue Cichlid - 4"

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Maylandia greshakei
• Common Name: Ice Blue Cichlid (also known as William's Mbuna)
• Adult Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 6–10 years
• Habitat: Rocky shores of Lake Malawi, particularly around Likoma Island

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (75+ gallons recommended for groups or mixed species tanks)
• Ideal Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Water Hardness: 10–20 dGH
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial, especially males; best kept with other Mbuna or similarly tempered cichlids

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes, with a preference for herbivorous fare
  • Primarily feed a vegetable-based diet (spirulina flakes, algae wafers)
  • Supplement with occasional high-quality cichlid pellets and minimal animal protein to avoid bloat
  • Avoid overfeeding protein-rich foods like bloodworms

Appearance

• Males exhibit a pale icy blue body with subtle orange or red edging on the dorsal and anal fins
• Females are more drab, usually pale gray or silver-blue
• Males intensify in color when dominant or breeding

Distinctive Features

• Cool blue body coloration, giving rise to the "ice blue" name
• Thick, stocky Mbuna body type
• Strongly territorial behavior and rock-dwelling nature—requires plenty of rockwork and hiding spots in the aquarium