Red Top

Red Top Cichlid – A Colorful and Lively Addition for Malawi Aquariums

The Red Top Cichlid is a striking and highly active Mbuna species from Lake Malawi, celebrated for its bright blue body accented with a distinctive red or orange marking on the head (the “red top”). This vivid contrast makes the Red Top Cichlid a standout choice for aquarists looking to add color, energy, and territorial behavior to their African cichlid tanks.

Like most Mbuna, Red Top Cichlids thrive in rocky aquascapes filled with caves and hiding spaces that allow them to establish territories and reduce aggression. While they are territorial, especially during breeding, they can coexist well with other similarly sized, robust Mbuna species in larger aquariums.

Key Features:

• Brilliant Blue Body with Red/Orange Top: Adds bold contrast and vibrant color to any tank.

• Classic Mbuna Behavior: Territorial, energetic, and thrives in structured environments.

• Medium Size: Typically grows to about 4-5 inches.

• Perfect for African Cichlid Displays: Complements other colorful and active Malawi species.

• Hardy and Active: Suitable for experienced aquarists familiar with cichlid behavior.

Recommended Tank Conditions:

• Tank Size: Minimum 50 gallons

• Temperature: 24°C – 28°C

• pH: 7.8 – 8.6

• Hardness: 10 – 20 dGH

Feeding:

Red Top Cichlids are omnivorous with a preference for vegetable-based foods. Provide a balanced diet of spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and vegetable-rich cichlid pellets, along with occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia. Avoid excessive meaty foods to maintain their health.

Add bold color and classic Mbuna energy to your aquarium with the Red Top Cichlid — a lively and visually striking choice for any Lake Malawi aquascape.