Metriaclima Melissa Chirwa 4-5cm

The Sunset Mbuna: Metriaclima Melissa Chirwa

Introduce a stunning, dark-and-light contrast to your African cichlid collection with the vibrant Metriaclima Melissa Chirwa.

This popular and beautifully patterned Mbuna cichlid, sometimes referred to by its former scientific name Maylandia melissa, originates specifically from the rocky reefs around Chirwa Island in Lake Malawi.

The sexually mature male displays a dark blue to purple-blue body, which dramatically transitions to bright yellow and orange accents that cover the belly, pelvic, anal, and caudal fins, giving it a captivating 'sunset' colouration.

The Melissa Chirwa is an active and robust fish that provides a vivid and commanding centrepiece, showcasing the best of the aggressive, colourful nature of island-dwelling Mbuna.

Features a highly distinctive colouration where the dark blue body provides a perfect frame for the fiery yellow and orange fins and belly, creating an immediate visual focal point.

Hails from the specific and authentic Chirwa Island locality, ensuring robust genetics and the unique dark blue/yellow colouration this particular strain is known for.

Reaches a manageable size of around 4 to 5 inches (10-13 cm), making it an ideal medium-sized, bold addition to a mixed-Mbuna display.

Possesses a moderately territorial disposition, ideally suited for tanks with ample rockwork and a blend of other similarly sized, herbivorous cichlids.

Thrives in standard African Rift Lake conditions with hard, alkaline water (pH 7.5-8.5) and a diet based primarily on high-quality vegetable and spirulina-rich foods.

Expertly sourced and maintained specimens ensure you receive healthy, high-quality Chirwa Island Mbuna with optimal colour intensity and finnage.

Don't miss the chance to own this bright and highly distinctive Metriaclima Melissa Chirwa.

Shop with confidence and rely on quality for your next powerful blue and yellow Mbuna.