The electric yellow cichlid, also known as yellow lab cichlid (Labidochromis caeruleus), is an attractive and intriguing fish found in Lake Malawi in Africa. Part of a group known as Mbuna species that are exclusive to this unique area between East African Rift and Indian Ocean Rift systems.
As with other Mbuna species, electric yellow cichlids need a large tank. To replicate its natural habitat on rocky shores in its wild home, plenty of rocks and caves should be added in your aquarium environment for this shy fish to retreat into; hardy plants should also be included for additional cover and visual barriers. Aquarium water pH should ideally range between 7.5-8.5 for best conditions although these fish are still fairly hardy creatures and will generally adapt over time to changes.
Although not generally aggressive, electric yellow cichlids should be housed with other peaceful or semi-aggressive community fish such as Mbuna species. Predatory or aggressive species should not be kept together; as this would increase competition for food and mates; additionally they have shown some aggression toward snails and crabs in the past.
Electric Yellow Cichlids are mouthbrooders that are easy to keep in a home aquarium, providing ample opportunity for breeding. Their diet should consist of both vegetable matter and protein-based foods; to provide greens they should receive algae flakes or pellets (those containing spirulina are best) along with cooked spinach, lettuce and peas from your kitchen as well as live or frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp as proteins - do not overfeed as this may cause obesity as well as reduce water quality in their tank!
