Orange Blotch Zebra Cichlid
Maylandia (or Metriaclima) sp. "OB Zebra"
 
The Orange Blotch (OB) Zebra Cichlid is a vibrant, hybrid mbuna from Lake Malawi, known for its blotched pattern of orange, black, and sometimes blue or white markings. Each fish is uniquely patterned, with no two looking exactly alike. Originally developed through selective breeding, the OB Zebra is a cross involving female mbuna (typically Maylandia estherae) and other zebra-type cichlids.
 
OB Zebras are hardy, active, and semi-aggressive — well-suited to colorful and dynamic Malawi setups. Due to their hybrid origin, they are not found in the wild but have become very popular in the aquarium trade for their bold appearance and energetic behavior.
 
Species Overview
Common Name: Orange Blotch Zebra Cichlid
Scientific Name: Maylandia (or Metriaclima) sp. "OB Zebra"
Origin: Lake Malawi (hybrid, not wild-form)
Maximum Size: 10–13 cm (4–5 inches)
Lifespan: 6 to 8 years
Temperament: Semi-aggressive to aggressive (typical mbuna behavior)
Swimming Level: Mid to bottom
Compatibility: Best with other Lake Malawi mbuna of similar size and aggression
Aquarium Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 200 litres
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
Décor: Lots of rocks, caves, crevices for hiding and territory control
Plants: Usually not suitable – may be uprooted or destroyed
Lighting: Moderate to bright
Filtration: Strong biological filtration is essential
Tank Cover: Recommended – very active and may jump
 
Water Parameters
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 7.8–8.6
Hardness: 10–20 dGH (hard water)
Water Movement: Moderate to strong
 
Diet
Diet Type: Omnivorous with a strong herbivore preference
Preferred Foods:
– Spirulina flakes, high-quality herbivore cichlid pellets
– Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas)
– Occasional frozen foods (mysis shrimp, daphnia)
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily
Feeding Tips: Avoid high-protein meaty foods like bloodworms — can lead to Malawi bloat
 
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder
Females incubate eggs in their mouths for ~21 days
Best bred in a harem setup — 1 male to 3 or more females
Fry can be raised on crushed flakes and powdered fry food
Separate fry from adults for best survival rates
 
Care Summary
Care Level: Beginner to intermediate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive to aggressive
Adult Size: 10–13 cm
Tank Size: Minimum 200 litres
Water Temperature: 24–28°C
pH Range: 7.8–8.6
 
Diet: Herbivore-leaning omnivore
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder
Tankmates: Mbuna only – avoid peaceful or slow-moving species