Kenyi Cichlid – Maylandia lombardoi (Kenyi Mbuna Cichlid)

Add bold color and personality to your aquarium with the Kenyi Cichlid (Maylandia lombardoi), a striking African Mbuna species from Lake Malawi. Known for their vibrant coloration and energetic behavior, male Kenyi develop brilliant electric blue bodies with darker vertical bands, while females display beautiful yellow-golden hues — creating a dynamic contrast in any African cichlid setup.

These fish are hardy, active, and territorial, making them a favorite among Mbuna enthusiasts. Ideal for rock-filled aquariums with plenty of hiding spaces and clean, alkaline water.

Features:

• 🐠 Scientific Name: Maylandia lombardoi (formerly Pseudotropheus lombardoi)
• 🌍 Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• 🌈 Coloration: Males – blue with dark bars; Females – golden yellow
• 💧 Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial but manageable in groups
• 🍽️ Diet: Omnivore – prefers spirulina flakes, pellets, and vegetable matter
• 🪸 Tank Level: Mid-bottom

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 76–82°F
• pH: 7.8–8.6
• KH: 8–12 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
• Environment: Rocky aquascape with caves and hiding spots

Behavior & Compatibility:
Kenyi Cichlids are best kept in species-only or mixed Mbuna tanks with similar temperament. Avoid mixing with delicate or slow-moving fish. Maintain a higher female-to-male ratio (3–4 females per male) to reduce aggression.