Description Kingsizei Cichlid (Metriaclima pulpican) – Luminous Blue Mbuna with Bold Personality The Kingsizei Cichlid, scientifically known as Metriaclima pulpican, is a striking and energetic Mbuna species from Lake Malawi. This eye-catching African cichlid is well-loved for its vibrant colours, compact size, and territorial behaviour, making it a standout addition to species-only or mixed Mbuna aquariums. Male Kingsizeis feature a luminous light blue body marked with bold, vertical black bands, while females are more subtly coloured, often displaying a soft blue-grey hue. Reaching about 4 inches (10 cm) for males and 3 inches (7.5 cm) for females, they are perfect for medium-sized Malawi setups. As typical rock-dwelling herbivores, Kingsizei cichlids graze on algae and biofilm in the wild and should be fed a vegetable-based diet in the aquarium. Their territorial nature requires thoughtful aquascaping with plenty of rockwork, caves, and hiding zones to diffuse aggression and define territory boundaries. Key Features: ✅ Scientific Name: Metriaclima pulpican ✅ Common Name: Kingsizei Cichlid ✅ Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa ✅ Size: Males up to 10 cm (4″); females up to 7.5 cm (3″) ✅ Temperament: Territorial, especially males ✅ Diet: Herbivore – algae wafers, spirulina, blanched vegetables ✅ Lifespan: 7–10 years with proper care ✅ Ideal Setup: Mbuna rockscape aquarium Aquarium Requirements: Tank Size: Minimum 180L (4-foot tank or larger) Water Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F) pH Range: 7.8–8.6 (alkaline, hard water) Aquascape: Rocky structures, caves, and multiple hiding places Filtration: Strong filtration and high oxygenation recommended Tank Mates: Other Mbuna of similar size and temperament; avoid mixing with overly aggressive or passive species Feeding Tip: Avoid high-protein or meaty foods to prevent bloating Why Choose the Kingsizei Cichlid? Vibrant electric-blue colouring and bold banding make males a standout Ideal for Mbuna enthusiasts and African cichlid aquascapes Active and engaging behaviour with strong territorial instincts Relatively small and manageable compared to larger Malawi haps Long-lived and hardy with proper water conditions Shop Kingsizei Cichlid – Metriaclima Pulpican — aquarium fish for sale Australia — at The Breeders Bay. Careful packing and fast shipping.
