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Metriaclima sp."elongatus goldbar" is living in intermediate zones from rocks to sand near Chizumulu Island and along the western coast of Likoma Island. Usually males as well as females are spotted alone on these locations. The males of this species have more golden-yellow colors on their body near Likoma Island than the ones from Chizumulu Island which are usually darker. These examples were found near Chiwi Rock at Chizumulu Island. In the lake the males of these species can grow to 8 cm, in the aquarium however they can grow a little taller because of a good feeding. The males can then grow to about 10 cm, females grow to about 8 cm. Metriaclima sp."elongatus goldbar" can behave intolerant against equal species and other inhabitants, specially during mating time. You can best keep this species with multiple females and other mbunas in an aquarium with a lot of hiding places. In the lake they are mainly feeding themselves with algae and invertebrates which they find on 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 algae like spirulina pellets or flakes is very important to them so this should not be missing on their menu. 
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