Maylandia estherae

Family: Cichlidae

Maylandia estherae — a Cichlidae from Africa. Reaches 9.8–14.3 cm; keep at 24–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6.5–8
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
9.8–14.3 cm
Minimum tank
245 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding
Origin
Africa

Species overview

A Cichlidae species native to Africa: Maylandia estherae lives bottom-dwelling over lakes and slow rivers with structure. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Adults reach 9.8–14.3 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Lakes and slow rivers with structure
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand with rock piles
Hardscape
Stones, caves and broken lines of sight
Plants
Hardy species that tolerate digging

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Pairs or singles with defined territory
Diet
Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Often striking; males larger and brighter
Breeding method
Substrate or cave spawner with parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Maylandia estherae easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Pairs or singles with defined territory.

What temperature and water chemistry does Maylandia estherae need?

Hold 24–28 °C and keep it stable — 24–28 °C curated husbandry range. Heater required for stable tropical warmth.

How big does Maylandia estherae get, and what tank size?

Expect 9.8–14.3 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 245 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Maylandia estherae eat?

Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Maylandia estherae live with other fish?

Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Maylandia estherae come from?

Native to Africa, where it lives in lakes and slow rivers with structure. Still to gentle current; Moderate.

Does Maylandia estherae jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Maylandia estherae breed?

Substrate or cave spawner with parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.