Description
Kingsizei Pulpican Cichlid (Pseudotropheus sp. “pulpican”)
✅ Origin:
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Native to Lake Malawi, specifically around the Likoma and Mbamba Bay regions.
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Belongs to the Mbuna group – rock-dwelling cichlids known for their vibrant colors and territorial behavior.
🐟 Appearance:
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Males are typically bright blue with black vertical bars, while females are more muted in color, often a pale yellow or brownish tone.
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Males can grow to around 10–12 cm (4–4.5 inches), while females remain slightly smaller.
🛠️ Care Requirements:
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Tank Size | Minimum 150 liters (40 gal) for a group |
| pH | 7.8–8.6 |
| Temperature | 24–28°C (75–82°F) |
| Water Hardness | Moderately hard to very hard |
| Aquascape | Rocky setup with caves & hiding spots |
| Filtration | Strong filtration & good oxygenation |
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Diet: Omnivorous with a preference for vegetable-based foods. Use spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and supplement with occasional protein like brine shrimp or krill (in moderation to prevent bloat).
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Water Changes: Weekly changes of 25–30% recommended for health and color vibrancy.
👫 Tank Mates:
Since this is a territorial Mbuna, tank mates should be:
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Other Mbuna species with similar aggression levels (avoid docile or overly aggressive types)
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Good companions include:
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Labidochromis caeruleus (Yellow Lab)
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Pseudotropheus saulosi
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Labeotropheus trewavasae
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Metriaclima lombardoi (with caution)
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Avoid keeping with:
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Peacocks (Aulonocara)
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Haplochromis
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Non-African or peaceful community fish
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➕ Tip:
To reduce aggression, keep them in groups of 1 male to 3–4 females and overstock slightly with plenty of hiding spots to spread out territories.
🔄 Summary:
The Kingsizei Pulpican Cichlid is a colorful, lively Mbuna that thrives in a well-maintained rocky Lake Malawi biotope. With proper tank setup and compatible tank mates, they can be a centerpiece in a vibrant African cichlid aquarium.
