Melanochromis kaskazini (formerly known as Melanochromis sp."northern blue") can be found in the intermediate zones from rocks to sand, along the rocky coasts in the northeastern part of the lake between Nkanda and Lundu. These examples were found in the neighbourhood of Kirondo. In the lake the males of these species can grow to 14 cm, in the aquarium however they can grow taller because of a good feeding. The males can then grow to about 17 cm, females grow to about 14 cm. Melanochromis kaskazini can behave intolerant against equal male species, 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 little fish, invertebrates and anything else eatable. 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. |