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Melanochromis dialeptos (also called Melanochromis sp."auratus dwarf") is found along the rocky coasts of the lake between Chiloelo and Masinje. They are mainly living there in the rocky parts of the intermediate zones between rocks and sand. This variant can be found in the neighbourhood of Masinje. In the lake the males of these species can grow to 7 cm, in the aquarium however they can grow taller because of a good feeding. The males can then grow to about 9 cm, females grow to about 7 cm. Melanochromis dialeptos can behave intolerant against equal male, against other inhabitants they are in general tolerant. You can best keep this species with multiple females and other mbuna in an aquarium with a lot of hiding places. In the lake they are mainly feeding themselves with algae from the rocks. In the aquarium they are comfortable with any food. They take everything they get offered, like spirulina pellets, mysis, artemia, cyclops and shrimp-peas mix. Food rich of algea like spirulina pellets or flakes is very important to them so this should not be missing on their menu. 
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