Intermediate habitats; at Likoma mainly shallow rocky areas,
while at southern Chizumulu also in sediment-rich rocky
biotopes at greater depths.
Geographic distribution:
Likoma and Chizumulu Islands, extending north to Njambe
(Tanzania) and south to Ntumba (Mozambique), possibly
as far as Mala Point.
Typical adult size:
Up to 13 cm.
Sexual dimorphism:
Males vary from light blue with a yellow chin to completely
yellow, with breeding coloration differing among
populations. Females have a basic pattern of two
horizontal rows of spots and lack a black band in the
dorsal fin.
Recommended aquarium size:
An aquarium volume of at least 400 L is recommended.
Diet:
Feeds from the biocover by nibbling and jerking algae from
rock surfaces.
Aggression:
Males defend territories aggressively against intruders.
Females are non-territorial and forage alone.
Special notes:
Member of the double stripe group. Population density and
male coloration vary considerably across its range.
Completely yellow males are more common in
sediment-rich habitats.
Photo gallery