Blueberry Zebra Cichlid (Metriaclima estherae)

Blueberry Zebra Cichlid (Metriaclima estherae) - Vivid Blue Malawi Mbuna for Serious Cichlid Keepers

The Blueberry Zebra Cichlid (Metriaclima estherae) is a striking Lake Malawi mbuna, instantly recognisable for its deep powder-blue body overlaid with bold black vertical barring that intensifies as it matures. Native to the rocky shorelines of Lake Malawi, this cichlid brings dramatic colour and constant activity to a dedicated African cichlid setup.

Like most mbuna, the Blueberry Zebra is a confident, territorial fish that stakes out caves and rocky outcrops as its own, sparring readily with tankmates of similar size and temperament. Its hardy constitution and bold personality make it a rewarding centrepiece for hobbyists who understand the space and water chemistry a rift lake cichlid demands.

At N8 Aquatics, our fish are carefully raised and conditioned to ensure healthy stock suited to home aquariums.

Species Snapshot

• Size Sold: Juvenile, approx. 3–5 cm
• Adult Size: 10–14 cm
• Tank Size: 200 L minimum, with rockwork and caves for territories
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial — keep only with other robust African cichlids of similar size, not a peaceful community fish
• Temperature: 24–27°C
• pH: 7.8–8.6
• Difficulty: Moderate

Ideal Habitat and Care

Recreate a rocky Lake Malawi biotope with plenty of caves and hiding spots to break sightlines and diffuse aggression; hard, alkaline water is essential for this species, unlike the soft-water needs of most tropical fish.

• Temperature: 24–27°C
• pH: 7.8–8.6
• Water Flow: Moderate to strong, with efficient filtration to handle bioload
• Maintenance: Weekly partial water changes to maintain stable, mineral-rich water

Diet

A varied, herbivore-leaning diet keeps this species' colours vibrant and its digestion healthy.

• High-quality cichlid pellets as a staple
• Spirulina-based flake for plant matter
• Occasional frozen foods as a treat
• Avoid excess high-fat foods, which can cause bloat in mbuna

Compatibility

The Blueberry Zebra does best in a species-only African cichlid tank stocked with fish of similar size and temperament.

Suitable tankmates include:

• Other Lake Malawi mbuna of similar size
• Robust, similarly-tempered African cichlids
• Not suited to plants, which will be uprooted or eaten

Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Why Buy From N8 Aquatics

• Carefully raised aquarium fish
• Healthy, well-conditioned stock
• Strong genetics and vibrant colouration
• Breeder support if you have questions

Pickup Information

N8 Aquatics currently operates as a local pickup-only breeder in Central Queensland.

Orders are collected by appointment after purchase confirmation.

Please ensure you are able to collect your fish before placing an order.

Important

All livestock sold by N8 Aquatics should be introduced to fully cycled aquariums suitable for the species being kept.

Please ensure your aquarium setup and tankmates are appropriate before purchasing.