Genus: Pseudotropheus
Locality: Lion's Cove (Lake Malawi)
Natural Habitat (Biotope): Rocky environments, typically found at depths between 7 and 12 meters.
Adult Size: Males reach approximately 9 cm, while females are smaller at about 7 cm.
Appearance: This species is famous for the dramatic color change in males. When dominant or courting, the male turns a brilliant, powdery light blue (almost white) with a dark mask across the eyes. Non-dominant males and females are generally a drab brownish or gray color.
Minimum Tank Size: 250 Liters (approx. 66 gallons).
Tank Dimensions: The aquarium should have a minimum length of at least 120 cm.
Setup: A rocky environment is recommended, ideally with a background of rocks providing many hiding places. The setup should mimic a "sediment-free" rocky zone.
Aggression: They are highly aggressive towards their own species (intra-species aggression) but generally peaceful or indifferent toward other species.
Stocking Ratio: It is recommended to keep one male with at least 2–3 females. Alternatively, they can be kept in a group (e.g., 3 males and 6–7 females) to spread out aggression.
Tank Mates: It is advised not to house them with larger or more robust Mbuna species that might overwhelm them.
Dietary Type: Herbivore.
Feeding Habits: They are typical "Aufwuchs" grazers, feeding on algae and the microorganisms found within the algal mat on rocks. In the aquarium, they should be fed herbivore-appropriate foods (high in spirulina/vegetable matter).