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Metriaclima melissa is found in intermediate zones from rocks to sand between Chewere and Chirwa Island. This variant, which before was called Metriaclima sp."elongatus chailosi", can be found near Chitande Island. In the lake the males of these species can grow to 9 cm, in the aquarium however they can grow taller because of a good feeding. The males can then grow to about 12 cm, females grow to about 10 cm. Metriaclima melissa can behave intolerant against equal 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 algae which they find on the rocks and the sand. 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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